Indulge in the sweet and tangy goodness of 50/50 Bar drink! This easy-to-make recipe only requires a classic kitchen blender, ice cream, orange juice, and vodka. Perfect for beginner bartenders, impress your guests with this refreshing cocktail. Don't have fresh juice? No worries, a juicer or squeezer can do the trick. Get mixing and enjoy!
50/50 Bar Ingredients
- 1 scoop Ice Cream
- 4 oz Orange juice
- 2 oz Vodka
50/50 Bar Equipment
- classic kitchen blender or smoothie blender works too
- juicer, squeezer manual or automatic - if you mind using fresh juice
50/50 Bar Recipe
- optionally make fresh Orange juice you can squeeze the juice yourself (once squeezed, fresh juice lasts good about 12 hours)
- mix the ingredients together with ice
- serve in glass
The 50/50 Bar: A Classic Cocktail with Endless Variations
As a professional bartender, I have served countless cocktails, but few are as popular and versatile as the 50/50 Bar. Whether you prefer it sweet and creamy or tangy and refreshing, this drink is a crowd-pleaser that can be adapted to suit almost any taste or dietary preference.
Popularity
The 50/50 Bar, also known as the Dreamsicle or Creamsicle cocktail, is believed to have originated in the United States in the 1950s or 60s. It is named after the popular ice cream treat that combines vanilla ice cream with orange sherbet, which inspired its signature flavor combination of orange juice and cream.
The cocktail gained widespread popularity in the 1970s and 80s, when it was a staple of poolside bars and beach resorts. Today, it remains a popular choice for summer parties, brunches, and happy hours, and can be found on menus across the country.
Ingredients
The classic 50/50 Bar is made with just three ingredients: ice cream, orange juice, and vodka. The ice cream provides the creamy base, while the orange juice adds a tangy, citrusy flavor and the vodka gives it a kick.
However, the beauty of the 50/50 Bar is that it can be customized in countless ways to suit different tastes and dietary restrictions. Here are some common variations:
- Virgin/mocktail version: Simply omit the vodka and you have a non-alcoholic version of the cocktail that is just as delicious.
- Gluten-free version: Ensure that the ice cream and orange juice are gluten-free, and use a gluten-free vodka such as Tito's or Absolut.
- Vegan version: Use a non-dairy ice cream such as coconut or almond milk ice cream, and ensure that the orange juice is vegan-friendly.
- Keto version: Replace the ice cream with heavy cream or coconut cream, and use a sugar-free orange juice or fresh-squeezed orange juice with a low glycemic index. For the vodka, use a sugar-free or low-carb brand such as Grey Goose or Ketel One.
- Low-calorie version: Use a low-fat or non-fat ice cream, and substitute fresh-squeezed orange juice for the sugar-laden store-bought variety. For the vodka, use a lower calorie brand such as Skinnygirl or Smirnoff.
How to Garnish
While the 50/50 Bar is delicious on its own, a well-chosen garnish can add an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal. Here are some ideas:
- Orange slice: A classic garnish that adds a pop of color and citrusy flavor.
- Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top of the cocktail adds a creamy, decadent finish.
- Sprinkles: For a fun, festive touch, rim the glass with colorful sprinkles that match the flavor of the cocktail.
- Candied orange peel: For a sophisticated garnish, use a vegetable peeler to create thin strips of orange peel, then candy them by simmering them in a simple syrup until they are coated in sugar.
- Mint sprig: A sprig of fresh mint adds a refreshing note that complements the tangy orange juice.
Variations
There are countless ways to customize the 50/50 Bar to suit your taste or occasion. Here are some more ideas:
- Frozen 50/50: For a refreshing summer treat, blend the cocktail with ice to create a frozen slushie.
- Spiced 50/50: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cocktail for a cozy, fall-inspired twist.
- Boozy 50/50: Increase the amount of vodka in the cocktail for a stronger, more potent drink.
- Fruity 50/50: Experiment with different fruit juices such as grapefruit, pineapple, or cranberry to create a unique flavor combination.
Common Mistakes When Making
While the 50/50 Bar is a simple cocktail, there are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure that it turns out perfectly every time:
- Using low-quality ingredients: The quality of the ice cream, orange juice, and vodka will greatly affect the flavor of the cocktail, so be sure to use high-quality brands.
- Not blending enough: To ensure that the cocktail is smooth and creamy, blend it thoroughly in a blender or smoothie maker.
- Using too much ice: If you are making a frozen version of the cocktail, be careful not to use too much ice, which can dilute the flavors and make the drink watery.
- Not garnishing: While the cocktail is delicious on its own, a well-chosen garnish can add an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal, so be sure to take the time to add a finishing touch.
In conclusion, the 50/50 Bar is a classic cocktail with endless variations and customization options. Whether you prefer it sweet or tangy, boozy or non-alcoholic, there is a version of this cocktail that will suit your tastes and dietary needs. So next time you're looking for a refreshing and crowd-pleasing drink, give the 50/50 Bar a try!
If you are going to order 50/50 Bar in a bar, don’t forget to mention all the ingredients to the bartender. 50/50 Bar can be served with different ingredients in different places.