CDKitchen, it's what's cooking online!
  • contact the CDKitchen helpdesk

California Root Beer Cocktail

  • print recipe
  • save recipe
  • add photo
  • add review
  • #11221

You'll notice that there is no root beer in this recipe. It's titled as such because the unique blend of ingredients creates a root beer like flavor (with a kick!)


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  under 30 minutes
Rating: 5/5

2 reviews

ingredients

ice
1 ounce Galliano
1 ounce Kahlua
2 ounces club soda
1 ounce cola

directions

Fill a cocktail glass with ice. Add the Galliano and Kahlua and mix well.

Gently stir in the club soda and cola. Serve the California root beer immediately.

recipe tips


Try adding a dash of vanilla extract or a few drops of bitters to enhance the flavor.

Try different proportions of Galliano and Kahlua to find your preferred balance between the herbal and coffee flavors.

Chilling the glass beforehand can keep your drink cooler for longer.

If you enjoy spicier flavors, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Try using artisanal or craft colas for a unique twist on the traditional cocktail flavor.

common recipe questions


What type of glass should I use for this cocktail?

You can use any type of glass you prefer for this cocktail. A highball glass is a good option as it offers plenty of room for ice and the mixed liquids.

How can I adjust the cocktail to make it sweeter or less sweet?

To make the cocktail sweeter, you can add more cola or a splash of simple syrup. To make it less sweet, reduce the amount of cola and adjust the club soda to maintain the liquid volume.

What can I use if I don't have club soda?

If you don't have club soda, you can use any plain sparkling water or seltzer as a substitute. These alternatives will maintain the fizziness of the cocktail without altering its flavor significantly.

Can I make this cocktail in a batch for a party?

Yes, you can easily scale up the ingredients to make a larger batch for a party. Mix the Galliano and Kahlua in a pitcher or large container, and add the club soda and cola just before serving to preserve the carbonation.

How can I garnish the cocktail?

Add a twist of orange peel, a maraschino cherry, or a sprig of mint.

Can I use diet cola for a lower-calorie version?

Yes, you can use diet cola.

tools needed


Cocktail Glass: Used to serve the cocktail, it's best to use a clear glass to showcase the drink's root beer like color.

Mixing Spoon or Stirrer: For combining the Galliano, Kahlua, club soda, and cola in the cocktail glass. Make sure to gently stir to maintain the fizziness.

Measuring Cup or Jigger: To accurately measure out the Galliano, Kahlua, club soda, and cola for a perfectly balanced cocktail.

Paper Straw (Optional): For a fun and eco-friendly touch (it is a "California" root beer after all!)

what goes with it?


Crispy Fried Chicken: this boozy drink would pair well with the crunchy texture and salty flavor of fried chicken.

Loaded Nachos: the complex flavors of the California Root Beer will add an additional layer of interest to the cheesy, spicy, and salty flavors of loaded nachos.

Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve the boozy root beer in a large glass with a dollop of vanilla ice cream for a grown-up root beer float.


nutrition data

Nutritional data has not been calculated yet.


share on facebook share on twitter share on pinterest


reviews & comments

  1. Tallcastle REVIEW:

    Made this with an extra oz of Club Soda instead of the 1oz Cola and turned out Fantastic! Smooth and pleasant, this drink is ideal for the casual drinker, or someone who dislikes the normal snapping bite of hard alcohol.

  2. Mj REVIEW:

    Best drink ever! But be warned, it tastes so much like Root Beer that you will forget it has alcohol in it.

About CDKitchen

Online since 1995, CDKitchen has grown into a large collection of delicious recipes created by home cooks and professional chefs from around the world. We are all about tasty treats, good eats, and fun food. Join our community of 200K+ members - browse for a recipe, submit your own, add a review, or upload a recipe photo.