Dill Pickle Shots Recipe
These Dill Pickle Shots are a fun twist on the classic pickleback shot. Made with dill pickle juice and vodka, they are a delicious blend of salty and tangy flavors that will be a crowd favorite.
This drink was created in New York by bartenders who were looking for a way to use up leftover pickle juice after making martinis. It quickly became popular, and you will find out why after your first sip.
Looking for more creative adult beverage ideas to make for your next dinner party? My favorites are these Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots, Bahama Mama Jello Shots, or Lemon Meringue Shots.
Table of Contents
Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
- Great For Pickle Lovers: These tangy pickle shots are slightly different and will liven up your party or dinner.
- Super Tangy: The pickle and vodka combination is surprisingly good, so this drink will quickly become a new favorite.
- Simple Ingredients: Plus, these ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store or in your fridge.
Recipe Ingredients
Ingredient Notes:
- Pickle Juice
- Vodka: I like to use high-quality vodka, such as Smirnoff. However, you can use your favorite.
- Optional Garnishes: Tajin seasoning, Pickle chips, and Gherkins all make great garnishes.
See the recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and measurements.
Substitutions and Additions
- Instead of using a little bit of extra pickle juice to stick on the garnish, you can also use lime juice for a little extra sour flavor.
- Flavored vodka, such as dill vodka or spicy pepper vodka, would add more flavor to this simple shot recipe.
- Are you a fan of spice? You can add a dash of hot sauce or sriracha to give your pickle shots a little kick.
- A splash or two of Worchester sauce will give these shots a deep flavor.
How to Make Dill Pickle Shots (step-by-step directions)
Step 1: In a cocktail shaker, shake together the vodka and pickle juice.
Step 2: Pour into the cocktail glass and garnish before serving.
Recipe Tips
- I strain the pickle juice from a jar in the fridge. However, you can purchase pickle juice in a bottle at the store, though it can be hard to find.
- Your shot will have a different flavor depending on the brand or type of pickle juice that you use. Claussen is always a favorite in our house.
- If you are going to garnish the rim of your glasses, make sure that you do that before you add the liquid to the glass.
- I strongly advise against using salt on the rim. Your shot will be way too salty.
Storing Tips
- Storage Tips: This drink is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Storage Container: You will need to use a glass container to keep the pickle juice from leaving smells in plastic.
Serving Suggestions
These pickle juice shots go well with your favorite party foods and appetizers. Some of my go-to party foods are Air Fryer BBQ Pulled Pork, Homemade Baked Pizza Rolls, and these Hot Cheeto Chicken Tenders. All of these dishes are always crowd favorites at parties and game days.
Recipe FAQs
A pickle shot is typically made with equal parts of juice and vodka. Some recipes also call for a splash of hot sauce or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for added flavor.
A dirty dill pickle is a variation of the traditional pickle shot that includes olive brine and sometimes a garnish of olives.
Dill pickle juice is made from vinegar, salt, dill weed, and garlic. Some recipes may also include other ingredients, such as mustard seeds or red pepper flakes, for added flavor.
Any whiskey can be used in these dill pickle shots, but many prefer smooth and mellow whiskey, such as bourbon or Canadian whisky. However, I prefer vodka over whiskey.
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Dill Pickle Shots
Equipment
Ingredients
- 5 Ounces (141 ¾ g) Dill Pickle Juice brine
- 5 Ounces (141 ¾ g) Vodka
Optional Garnishes:
- Extra Pickle Juice
- Tajin Seasoning
- Pickle Chips
- Gherkin Pickles
Instructions
- Add the pickle juice and vodka to a shaker and gently shake.5 Ounces Dill Pickle Juice,5 Ounces Vodka
- Pour the vodka mixture into the shot glass and garnish as desired.Extra Pickle Juice,Tajin Seasoning,Pickle Chips,Gherkin Pickles
Notes
- I strain the pickle juice from a jar in the fridge. However, you can purchase pickle juice in a bottle at the store, though it can be hard to find.
- Your shot will have a different flavor depending on the brand or type of pickle juice that you use. Claussen is always a favorite in our house.
- If you are going to garnish the rim of your glasses, make sure that you do that before you add the liquid to the glass.
- I strongly advise against using salt on the rim. Your shot will be way too salty.
Nutrition Information
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