Creating a delicious cocktail becomes much easier when you know how to use a cocktail shaker. This essential tool will elevate your home bartending skills and impress your guests by allowing you to craft a wider variety of drinks. In this quick guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from selecting the right cocktail shaker set to the actual shaking and straining of your drinks.
Whether you’re a beginner or just looking for a refresher, grab your Frobishers soft drink mixers and check out this handy guide on how to use a cocktail shaker.
Choosing the Right Cocktail Shaker Set
Before you start shaking, you may want to consider what the right cocktail shaker is for your needs. There are three primary types to consider:
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1. The Cobbler shaker - A three-piece shaker with a built-in strainer, making it ideal for beginners. Its design simplifies the shaking and pouring process.
2. The Boston shaker - A two-piece kit that includes a metal tin and a glass. It’s favoured by professional bartenders for its versatility and ease of use.
3. The French shaker - Although it resembles the Boston shaker, the French shaker is typically all metal and sleek in design. This two-piece shaker is stylish and functional, appealing to those looking to make a statement. |
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How to Use a Cocktail Shaker
Once you have your cocktail shaker kit ready, it’s time to dive into the shaking process:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by collecting your spirits, mixers, and garnishes. Once gathered, measure your ingredients using a jigger (the handy measuring tool you’ll often see bartenders use) for accuracy, as this ensures a well-balanced cocktail.
Having trouble choosing a recipe? Explore our collection of cocktail recipes, complete with ingredient lists, detailed steps, and difficulty levels, to help you find the perfect starting point.
Step 2: Fill the Shaker
Add ice to your shaker, filling it about two-thirds full. This allows enough room for the ingredients to mix and chill without spilling.
Step 3: Add Your Ingredients
Pour your measured ingredients over the ice, combining your chosen spirits and mixers for a harmonious blend.
Step 4: Secure the Shaker
If you’re using a Boston shaker, place the glass over the tin and tap it gently to create a seal. For a Cobbler shaker, press the top on tightly. A secure seal is crucial to prevent leaks during shaking.
Step 5: Shake It Up!
Hold the shaker with both hands—one on the base and one on the lid—and shake vigorously for about 15 to 30 seconds. You should feel the shaker become cold to the touch, indicating that your cocktail is properly chilled.
Step 6: How to Open The Cocktail Shaker
After shaking, it’s time to open your cocktail shaker. For the Boston shaker, gently tap the side of the tin to break the seal. If you’re using a Cobbler shaker, simply twist the top off. If you encounter resistance, running it under warm water can help loosen the seal.
For an added touch of sophistication, consider chilling your glassware. Simply place your glasses in the freezer or fill them with ice water while preparing your cocktails.
How to Strain Out of a Cocktail ShakerStraining is an essential step to ensure your cocktail is smooth and free of ice or other solids. For a Boston shaker, grab a strainer (we recommend a Hawthorne Strainer for beginners) and place it over the shaker’s opening. Tilt the shaker and pour your cocktail through the strainer into your glass, allowing it to catch any ice or herbs. For a Cobbler shaker, simply remove the top part. The built-in strainer will filter out the ice as you pour. Tilt the shaker to pour the cocktail directly into your glass, and if desired, you can use a fine mesh strainer for an even smoother finish. |
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Final Tips for Perfect Cocktails
With these steps and tips, you’re now ready to shake up a storm and impress your friends with your mixology skills! Don’t hesitate to experiment with new ingredients and techniques; cocktails are all about creativity. Try different combinations to discover your favourites.
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