Iowa City Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail: A Deliciously Boozy Treat

Craving the comforting flavors of an oatmeal cookie but also in the mood for a cocktail? Look no further! The Iowa City Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail is a delightful concoction that perfectly blends the warmth and spice of an oatmeal cookie with the kick of your favorite spirits. This recipe is inspired by the famous drink served at several bars in Iowa City, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and innovative cocktails. While versions vary slightly from establishment to establishment, the core elements remain the same: a creamy, slightly sweet, and undeniably delicious treat that tastes just like an oatmeal cookie in liquid form.

This article will guide you through crafting your very own Iowa City Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail at home, complete with detailed instructions, ingredient suggestions, and variations to customize the drink to your liking. So, grab your shaker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience a taste of Iowa City!

## What Makes the Iowa City Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail Special?

The magic of this cocktail lies in its clever combination of ingredients that mimic the flavors of an oatmeal cookie. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:

* **Irish Cream Liqueur:** This provides the creamy base and a hint of sweetness. Bailey’s is the most common choice, but other brands work well too. Look for flavors like salted caramel or vanilla for an extra twist.
* **Butterscotch Schnapps:** This adds the rich, buttery, and slightly nutty notes that are essential to capturing the essence of an oatmeal cookie. The sweetness level can vary between brands, so adjust accordingly.
* **Cinnamon Schnapps:** A touch of cinnamon brings warmth and spice, reminiscent of the cinnamon found in most oatmeal cookie recipes. Use it sparingly, as it can easily overpower the other flavors.
* **Goldshläger (or Goldschläger Alternative):** This cinnamon schnapps is famously known for its gold flakes. The slight cinnamon flavor enhances the drink, and the gold flakes add a visual flair, making it festive and fun. Alternatives such as Cinnamon Goldschläger can be used, or you can omit this ingredient without significantly impacting the taste.
* **Heavy Cream or Milk (Optional):** Some variations include a splash of heavy cream or milk for added richness and creaminess. This is a matter of personal preference, so feel free to experiment.

## Recipe: Iowa City Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail

This recipe provides a base for a single serving. Feel free to double or triple the ingredients to make multiple cocktails at once. Remember to adjust to your taste.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 ounce Irish cream liqueur (e.g., Bailey’s)
* 1 ounce Butterscotch Schnapps
* 1/2 ounce Cinnamon Schnapps
* 1/2 ounce Goldshläger (or alternative, or omit)
* 1/2 – 1 ounce Heavy cream or milk (optional, adjust to taste)
* Ice cubes
* Optional garnishes: Cinnamon stick, whipped cream, sprinkle of brown sugar or nutmeg.

**Equipment:**

* Cocktail shaker
* Jigger or measuring spoons
* Cocktail glass (martini glass, coupe glass, or old-fashioned glass)

**Instructions:**

1. **Chill Your Glass:** Place your cocktail glass in the freezer for a few minutes to chill it. This will help keep your cocktail cold.
2. **Prepare Your Shaker:** Fill your cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
3. **Add the Liqueurs and Schnapps:** Pour the Irish cream liqueur, butterscotch schnapps, cinnamon schnapps, and Goldshläger (or alternative) into the shaker.
4. **Add Cream (Optional):** If you desire a creamier cocktail, add the heavy cream or milk to the shaker.
5. **Shake Well:** Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. This will chill the ingredients and properly combine them.
6. **Strain into Glass:** Remove the chilled cocktail glass from the freezer. Strain the contents of the shaker into the glass, leaving the ice behind.
7. **Garnish (Optional):** Add your desired garnishes. A cinnamon stick, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of brown sugar or nutmeg can add visual appeal and enhance the aroma.
8. **Serve Immediately:** Enjoy your delicious Iowa City Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail immediately.

## Tips for the Perfect Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail

* **Use Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the taste of your cocktail. Opt for reputable brands of Irish cream liqueur and schnapps.
* **Adjust the Sweetness:** Butterscotch schnapps can be quite sweet, so adjust the amount to your preference. If you find the cocktail too sweet, add a splash of milk or cream to balance it out.
* **Control the Cinnamon:** Cinnamon schnapps is potent, so use it sparingly. Start with a smaller amount and add more to taste. Consider using a cinnamon stick as a garnish instead of adding more schnapps for a more subtle cinnamon flavor.
* **Don’t Over-Shake:** Shaking for too long can over-dilute the cocktail. 15-20 seconds is usually sufficient.
* **Experiment with Garnishes:** Get creative with your garnishes! Toasted oats, a miniature oatmeal cookie on the rim, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce can add a unique touch.
* **Consider a Rim:** Try rimming your glass with crushed graham crackers or a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for an extra dose of oatmeal cookie flavor.

## Variations on the Iowa City Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail

One of the best things about cocktails is the ability to customize them to your own tastes. Here are a few variations you can try:

* **Vegan Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail:** Substitute the Irish cream liqueur with a vegan alternative like Baileys Almande or a homemade cashew cream liqueur. Use almond milk or oat milk instead of heavy cream or milk. Ensure your butterscotch and cinnamon schnapps are also vegan-friendly.
* **Spiced Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail:** Add a dash of ground nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to the shaker for a warmer, spicier flavor profile.
* **Chocolate Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail:** Add a splash of chocolate liqueur or a dash of cocoa powder to the shaker for a chocolatey twist.
* **Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail:** Add a small amount of peanut butter liqueur or a teaspoon of creamy peanut butter to the shaker. Be sure to shake very well to incorporate the peanut butter fully.
* **Salted Caramel Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail:** Use salted caramel Irish cream liqueur instead of the regular variety. You can also add a pinch of sea salt to the shaker.
* **Oatmeal Cookie Martini:** For a stronger cocktail, reduce or eliminate the cream/milk and serve in a martini glass.

## Serving Suggestions

The Iowa City Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail is perfect for:

* **Dessert:** Serve it as a decadent after-dinner treat.
* **Happy Hour:** Enjoy it as a fun and flavorful cocktail during happy hour.
* **Special Occasions:** It’s a great choice for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration.
* **Casual Gatherings:** It’s easy to make and a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for casual get-togethers.

Pair it with:

* **Oatmeal Cookies:** Obviously!
* **Other Cookies:** Chocolate chip, peanut butter, or snickerdoodle cookies.
* **Brownies or Blondies:** The rich, fudgy flavors complement the cocktail perfectly.
* **Ice Cream:** A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream would be a delicious addition.

## History and Origins

While the exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, the Iowa City Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail is widely believed to have originated in one of the many bars in Iowa City, Iowa. The city is home to the University of Iowa and boasts a lively bar scene known for its creative and innovative cocktails. Over time, the recipe has evolved and been adapted by various establishments, each putting their unique spin on the classic drink. The cocktail’s popularity has spread beyond Iowa City, and it can now be found in bars and restaurants across the country. The drink’s appeal lies in its nostalgic flavors and its ability to evoke the comforting feeling of enjoying a warm oatmeal cookie.

## Troubleshooting

* **Cocktail is too sweet:** Reduce the amount of butterscotch schnapps or add a splash of milk or cream to balance the sweetness.
* **Cocktail is not sweet enough:** Add a small amount of simple syrup or agave nectar to sweeten it to your liking.
* **Cocktail is too strong:** Add more milk or cream to dilute the alcohol. You can also reduce the amount of schnapps.
* **Cocktail is too weak:** Increase the amount of schnapps or reduce the amount of milk or cream.
* **Cocktail is too thick:** Add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out. Make sure you are not over-shaking the mixture.
* **Cocktail is too watery:** Use less ice in the shaker or shake for a shorter amount of time.

## Other Cocktail Recipes To Explore

If you enjoy the Iowa City Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail, you might also like these other dessert-inspired cocktails:

* **White Russian:** A classic cocktail made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream.
* **Mudslide:** A creamy cocktail made with vodka, coffee liqueur, Irish cream, and chocolate syrup.
* **Brandy Alexander:** A decadent cocktail made with brandy, crème de cacao, and cream.
* **Grasshopper:** A minty green cocktail made with crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and cream.
* **Key Lime Pie Martini:** A tangy and sweet cocktail that tastes just like key lime pie.

## Conclusion

The Iowa City Oatmeal Cookie Cocktail is a fun, flavorful, and comforting drink that’s perfect for any occasion. With its unique blend of Irish cream liqueur, butterscotch schnapps, and cinnamon schnapps, it truly captures the essence of an oatmeal cookie in liquid form. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious beginner, this recipe is sure to impress. So, go ahead and give it a try – you might just discover your new favorite cocktail!

Enjoy responsibly!

Remember to always drink responsibly and never drink and drive. Please be aware of your local drinking age and laws. This recipe is intended for adults of legal drinking age only.