The Canadian Caesar cocktail is a bold, savory drink featuring Clamato juice, vodka, and a blend of spices, creating a flavorful experience unlike any other. This cocktail is a staple in Canada, often served with extravagant garnishes, making it perfect for brunch, celebrations, or casual get-togethers. Whether you like it spicy or mild, this easy-to-make drink is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Signature Canadian Cocktail – A must-try for those who love Bloody Marys but want a briny, umami twist.
- Bold & Savory Flavors – Clamato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce create a perfectly balanced taste.
- Customizable Spice Level – Adjust the heat to your preference with more or less hot sauce and horseradish.
- Fun & Over-the-Top Garnish – A drink that doubles as a snack, with endless garnish possibilities.
- Perfect for Brunch & Parties – A crowd-pleaser that pairs well with breakfast and appetizers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cocktail:
- 1 ½ oz vodka
- 4 oz Clamato juice
- 2 dashes hot sauce (Tabasco)
- 3 dashes Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon horseradish (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon celery salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime wedge
- Ice cubes
For the Rim Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon celery salt
- 1 tablespoon coarse salt
- 1 lime wedge
For the Skewer Garnish:
- 2 slices pepperoni or salami
- 1 pickled pepper
- 1 cube cheddar cheese
- 1 pickle spear
Directions
- Prepare the Rim:
- Mix celery salt and coarse salt on a small plate.
- Rub the rim of a tall glass with a lime wedge, then dip it into the salt mixture to coat.
- Mix the Drink:
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in vodka, Clamato juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, horseradish (if using), celery salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
- Stir well to combine.
- Garnish:
- Thread the pepperoni, pickled pepper, cheddar cheese, and pickle spear onto a cocktail skewer.
- Serve:
- Place the skewer on top of the glass and enjoy immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
Variations
- Extra Spicy Caesar: Add more hot sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of spicy pickle brine.
- Bloody Caesar: Swap vodka for gin for a botanical twist.
- Michelada-Style Caesar: Use beer instead of vodka for a lighter, refreshing version.
- Vegetarian Caesar: Replace Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or a vegan Worcestershire alternative.
- Ultimate Garnish Caesar: Upgrade the skewer with shrimp, bacon, olives, or even a mini slider for a show-stopping drink.
Storage/Reheating
- Make-Ahead Mix: Combine Clamato juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, celery salt, and black pepper in advance and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Garnish Prep: Pre-skewer garnishes and refrigerate them in an airtight container for quick assembly.
- Best Served Fresh: Since this cocktail is mixed with ice, it is best enjoyed immediately after preparation.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between a Bloody Mary and a Caesar?
A Bloody Mary is made with tomato juice, while a Caesar uses Clamato juice, giving it a lighter, brinier flavor.
2. Can I make a non-alcoholic Caesar?
Yes, simply omit the vodka for a Virgin Caesar that still has all the classic flavors.
3. What is Clamato juice?
Clamato is a blend of tomato juice and clam broth, giving the drink a unique umami depth.
4. Can I use a different alcohol instead of vodka?
Yes, gin or tequila work well for different variations of the drink.
5. What other garnishes can I use?
Popular garnishes include celery stalks, cooked shrimp, bacon, olives, jalapeños, and even grilled cheese bites.
6. How do I make a milder Caesar?
Reduce the hot sauce and omit the horseradish for a less spicy version.
7. What’s the best glass to serve a Caesar in?
A highball glass or pint glass is ideal for holding the drink and garnishes.
8. Can I use tomato juice instead of Clamato?
While it will change the flavor, tomato juice can be used as a substitute if Clamato is unavailable.
9. Is a Caesar only a brunch drink?
No! While popular at brunch, it’s also great as a pre-dinner cocktail or party drink.
10. What type of vodka works best for a Caesar?
A smooth, neutral vodka is best, but flavored vodkas like pepper or citrus can add an interesting twist.
Conclusion
The Canadian Caesar cocktail is a bold and flavorful drink that’s easy to make and fun to customize. Whether you enjoy it with a classic garnish or go all out with an extravagant skewer, this cocktail is a must-try for any cocktail lover. Perfect for brunch, parties, or casual sipping, the Caesar is a true Canadian classic that never goes out of style!
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Authentic Caesar Cocktail Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A bold and savory Canadian cocktail made with Clamato juice, vodka, and spices, garnished with an over-the-top skewer for the ultimate drink experience. Perfect for brunch, celebrations, or whenever you’re craving a flavorful twist on a Bloody Mary!
Ingredients
For the Cocktail:
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 4 oz Clamato juice
- 2 dashes hot sauce (Tabasco)
- 3 dashes Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon horseradish (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime wedge
- Ice cubes
For the Rim Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon celery salt
- 1 tablespoon coarse salt
- 1 lime wedge
For the Skewer Garnish:
- 2 slices pepperoni or salami
- 1 pickled pepper
- 1 cube cheddar cheese
- 1 pickle spear
Instructions
-
Prepare the Rim:
- Mix celery salt and coarse salt on a small plate.
- Rub the rim of a tall glass with a lime wedge, then dip into the salt mixture.
-
Mix the Drink:
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in vodka, Clamato juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, horseradish, celery salt, black pepper, and lime juice.
- Stir well.
-
Garnish:
- Skewer pepperoni, pickled pepper, cheddar cheese, and a pickle onto a cocktail stick.
-
Serve:
- Place the skewer on top of the glass and enjoy immediately!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of pickle juice or olive brine.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less hot sauce and horseradish.
- Try swapping vodka for gin for a unique twist.
- Serve with a celery stalk or crispy bacon for an extra indulgent garnish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks & Cocktails
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: Canadian
