Zesty Whiskey Slush Cooler
Beat the heat with this Zesty Whiskey Slush Cooler, a delightful and refreshing frozen cocktail perfect for summer gatherings or any festive occasion. This recipe combines aromatic tea with vibrant citrus flavors, creating a slush that is both energizing and satisfying. Serve it at your next BBQ, picnic, or backyard party, and watch it become an instant favorite among your friends and family. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this slush will elevate your refreshing drink game!
25
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boiling water
9 cups (Bring to a boil)
Sugar
1 cup (Granulated, to taste)
Tea bags
4 (Black or green tea)
Frozen orange juice concentrate
12 ounces (Thawed)
Frozen lemonade concentrate
12 ounces (Thawed)
Whiskey
2 cups (Use your favorite brand)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, bring 9 cups of water to a rolling boil.
2
Carefully pour the boiling water into a large container that can hold all the ingredients.
3
Add 1 cup of granulated sugar to the hot water and stir until fully dissolved.
4
Add 4 tea bags (black or green) to the container and allow them to steep as the mixture cools; let sit for about 30 minutes.
5
Once the tea mixture is cool, remove the tea bags and add 12 ounces of thawed frozen orange juice concentrate and 12 ounces of thawed frozen lemonade concentrate.
6
Stir well until the juices are completely dissolved into the tea mixture, then mix in 2 cups of your preferred whiskey.
7
Pour the entire mixture into a large, freezer-safe container, ensuring there’s enough room for expansion as it freezes.
8
Cover and place it in the freezer overnight for optimal slushiness.
9
To serve, scoop a few generous portions of the slush into a glass and top it off with chilled 7-up or ginger ale for a fizzy finish. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Zesty Whiskey Slush Cooler?
It is a refreshing frozen cocktail made with aromatic tea, citrus juices, and whiskey, typically topped with a fizzy soda.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 25 servings.
What type of tea should I use for the slush?
You can use either black or green tea bags depending on your preference.
How long does it take for the slush to freeze?
For the best slushy consistency, it is recommended to freeze the mixture overnight.
What kind of whiskey works best in this recipe?
You can use any of your preferred brands of whiskey or bourbon.
Do I need to thaw the juice concentrates first?
Yes, the frozen orange juice and lemonade concentrates should be thawed before mixing them into the tea.
How do I serve the whiskey slush?
Scoop the frozen slush into a glass and top it off with chilled 7-up or ginger ale.
Can I make this recipe non-alcoholic?
Yes, simply omit the whiskey to create a zesty tea and citrus slush for all ages.
Which soda is best for topping the drink?
Chilled 7-up or ginger ale are the recommended options for a fizzy finish.
Can I use honey instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with honey, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
How long can I keep the slush in the freezer?
Stored in a sealed, freezer-safe container, the slush can last for several weeks.
Is this drink suitable for large parties?
Absolutely, it is designed for summer gatherings, BBQs, and picnics due to its large yield.
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of concentrate?
Concentrate is preferred as it provides the intense flavor and sugar content needed for the slush texture.
Why do I need to boil the water?
Boiling water is necessary to dissolve the sugar and properly steep the tea bags.
Can I use bourbon instead of traditional whiskey?
Yes, bourbon works exceptionally well with the citrus and tea flavors in this recipe.
How much sugar is required for the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of granulated sugar, though you can adjust to taste.
What size container is needed for freezing?
You will need a large freezer-safe container, roughly 4-5 quarts in size, to allow for expansion.
Can I add fruit garnishes to the drink?
Yes, adding lemon slices, orange wedges, or mint leaves makes for a beautiful presentation.
Is this a good drink for the summer?
Yes, it is a delightful and refreshing frozen cocktail perfect for beating the heat.
Can I use ginger beer instead of ginger ale?
Yes, ginger beer can be used if you prefer a stronger, spicier ginger flavor.
What happens if I don't freeze it overnight?
The mixture may remain too liquid; overnight freezing ensures a consistent slushy texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, as long as you have enough large containers and freezer space, the recipe scales easily.
What type of glass is best for serving?
Any standard water glass or cocktail glass works, but clear glass showcases the slushy texture best.
Can I use decaffeinated tea?
Yes, decaf tea works perfectly if you want to enjoy the flavor without the caffeine.
Does the alcohol keep it from freezing solid?
Yes, the whiskey and sugar content prevent the mixture from turning into a solid block of ice.
Can I substitute lemonade with limeade concentrate?
Yes, limeade concentrate can be used for a more tart, lime-forward citrus flavor.
Is this drink very sweet?
It is a balanced mix of sweet sugar, tart citrus, and bold whiskey flavors.
Can I prepare the tea mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and cool the tea mixture a day before you plan to add the juice and freeze it.
What is the best way to scoop the slush?
A standard ice cream scoop or a large sturdy spoon works best for portioning the frozen slush.
Can I use more than 4 tea bags?
Yes, if you prefer a stronger tea flavor, you can add an extra 1-2 tea bags during the steeping process.