Ruth’s Chris Cocktail Recipe

If you love steakhouse-style drinks with bold flavor and smooth balance, this Ruth’s Chris Cocktail Recipe (New Fashioned) is for you. Inspired by the signature cocktail served at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, this drink delivers a rich, slightly sweet, and aromatic experience in just 3 minutes.

This cocktail is a modern twist on the classic Old Fashioned. It combines whiskey, cherry liqueur, and layered bitters to create a deep, smooth flavor with hints of citrus and walnut. It’s perfect for dinner parties, weekend relaxation, or whenever you want a restaurant-quality cocktail at home.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. No special skills required.

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What Is Ruth’s Chris Cocktail?

The Ruth’s Chris Cocktail, often called the “New Fashioned,” is a refined version of the traditional Old Fashioned. Instead of sugar syrup, it uses Cherry Heering for sweetness and depth. The addition of walnut and orange bitters creates a more complex flavor profile.

This cocktail features:

• Smooth whiskey base
• Sweet cherry notes
• Warm walnut undertones
• Bright citrus aroma

It’s strong but balanced — bold yet smooth.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

Here’s why this Ruth’s Chris Cocktail recipe stands out:

• ✅ Ready in just 3 minutes
• ✅ Only a few simple ingredients
• ✅ Perfect balance of sweet and strong
• ✅ Restaurant-quality flavor at home
• ✅ Ideal for special dinners or celebrations

If you enjoy classic American cocktails with a modern twist, this recipe will quickly become your favorite.

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Equipment’s

To make this cocktail properly, you will need:

• Mixing glass
• Jigger (for measuring)
• Bar spoon
• Muddler
• Rock glass (Old Fashioned glass)
• Strainer

Using proper bar tools ensures the right balance and flavor.

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Ingredients With Amounts

Here’s everything you need for 1 serving:

• 1 Orange twist
• 2 Drops Of Fee Brothers Walnut Bitters, recommended
• 3 drops Angostura Orange Bitters, Recommended
• Ice (as needed)
• 1 oz Whiskey
• 1 oz Cherry Heering
• Cherry and orange wheel (for garnish)

These ingredients create the signature New Fashioned flavor.

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Instructions

Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Muddle the Citrus and Bitters

Place the orange twist into a mixing glass.
Add 2 drops of walnut bitters and 3 drops of orange bitters.
Gently muddle to release the citrus oils.

Step 2: Add Ice

Add a handful of ice into the mixing glass.

Step 3: Pour the Spirits

Add 1 oz whiskey and 1 oz Cherry Heering.

Step 4: Stir

Using a bar spoon, stir the mixture for about 15 seconds. This chills and blends the flavors without over-diluting.

Step 5: Strain

Strain into a rock glass filled with fresh ice.

Step 6: Garnish

Garnish with an orange wheel and a cherry.

Enjoy your homemade Ruth’s Chris Cocktail!

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Notes

• Use good-quality whiskey for the best taste.
• Do not over-muddle the orange twist — it can turn bitter.
• Stir gently instead of shaking. Shaking changes the texture.
• Fresh ice makes a big difference in flavor and dilution.

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Variations

Want to customize your drink? Try these ideas:

1. Bourbon Version

Use bourbon instead of regular whiskey for a sweeter, smoother finish.

2. Smoky Twist

Add a splash of smoky Scotch for depth.

3. Spiced Version

Add a tiny pinch of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla extract.

4. Less Sweet Option

Reduce Cherry Heering to ¾ oz if you prefer a stronger whiskey taste.

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Tips

• Always measure your ingredients accurately. Balance is key.
• Use large ice cubes to prevent fast dilution.
• Chill your glass beforehand for a premium feel.
• Express the orange peel oils over the drink before garnishing for extra aroma.

These small details make a big difference.

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What to Serve with Ruth’s Chris Cocktail?

This cocktail pairs beautifully with rich and savory dishes.

Perfect pairings include:

• Grilled steak
• Garlic butter shrimp
• Cheese boards
• Stuffed mushrooms
• Dark chocolate desserts

It’s especially ideal for steak dinners, just like at Ruth’s Chris Steak House.

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How to Store Ruth’s Chris Cocktail?

This cocktail is best served fresh. However:

• You can pre-mix whiskey and Cherry Heering and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• Do not add ice until serving.
• Add fresh bitters and garnish just before serving.

For best flavor, always prepare it fresh.

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Have a look at our Tropical Smoothie Jetty Punch Recipe if you are interested.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of whiskey is best for this recipe?

Bourbon works best because of its natural sweetness. However, rye whiskey gives a spicier finish.

2. Can I replace Cherry Heering?

You can substitute with another cherry liqueur, but the taste will slightly change.

3. Is this drink strong?

Yes, it is a spirit-forward cocktail, similar to an Old Fashioned.

4. Can I make it sweeter?

Yes, add a small amount of simple syrup if desired.

5. Can I shake instead of stir?

It’s better to stir. Shaking adds too much dilution and changes the texture.

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Conclusion

This Ruth’s Chris Cocktail Recipe (New Fashioned) is a bold yet smooth drink that brings steakhouse elegance into your home. With rich whiskey, sweet cherry liqueur, and aromatic bitters, it delivers a perfectly balanced flavor in every sip.

It’s quick, simple, and impressive — everything you want in a premium cocktail recipe.

Try it once, and it may become your signature drink for special occasions.