The Bourbon Cocktail You Need For Your Next Brunch Party

When you think of brunch cocktails, the mimosa (with popular variations such as the peach Bellini), Bloody Mary, and a screwdriver (which just so happen to be the top four drinks that cocktail fans think is the best for brunch per a Tasting Table survey) probably come to mind. And while these cocktails are all classic brunch options, and perfectly fine for the average brunch, you may want to elevate things a bit if you're throwing a brunch party. Which is why it's time to take a page from New Orleans and add the bourbon milk punch as a cool, creamy, and complex addition to your next brunch party drink menu.

A staple of establishments like Galatoire's, Arnaud's French 75 Bar, and Brennan's, and served at both brunch and other times during the day and night (and especially over the holidays), bourbon milk punch is typically made with bourbon, whole milk, simple syrup, and vanilla extract, which is then combined and shaken vigorously with ice, strained, and serve with a garnish of freshly grated nutmeg.

There are numerous variations to the bourbon milk punch, which means you can customize the drink to your and your party's tastes. Brandy is a common addition to bourbon (and sometimes even replaces it entirely). Rum is another optional addition or replacement. For extra kick and flavor, you can try adding in Irish Cream, a coffee liqueur, or some other flavored liqueur.

Some variations use half-and-half, heavy cream, sweet cream, or condensed milk instead of or in addition to whole milk. The cocktail is meant to be rich so you don't want to go much lighter than whole milk. You can also replace simple syrup with brown sugar syrup, powdered sugar, or some other sweetener of your choice. And while the cocktail is usually served strained, you can serve it over ice or as a frozen cocktail as well. In addition to nutmeg, you can also use grated cinnamon, and add a star anise or a cinnamon stick for extra visual interest. Southern Living also recommends making bourbon milk punch in a large batch rather than to order, which is yet another reason it's the ideal cocktail for your next brunch party.