The history of the Hanky Panky cocktail dates all the way back to the early 1900s. This classic cocktail was created by the famous British bartender and mixologist, Ada Coleman.
Coleman is credited with inventing the cocktail for actor Charles Hawtrey, who requested “something with a bit of punch”. She named the drink after a popular saying of the time, “A hanky panky”.
The classic Hanky Panky cocktail is a mix of gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet Branca, an Italian herbal liqueur. It has a strong, herbal flavor and is usually served straight up.
Make a Hanky Panky cocktail at home with these easy steps:
Main Ingredients:
1.5oz Gin
1.5oz Sweet Vermouth
1 dash Fernet Branca
Glass: Coupe or Martini
Ice: Cubed
Garnishes: Orange peel (optional)
Mixing Instructions:
- Fill your glass with cubed ice and set aside.
- In a shaker, combine gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet Branca.
- Shake well for 30 seconds.
- Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass.
- Garnish with an orange peel (optional).
- Enjoy your Hanky Panky cocktail.
For a twist on the classic Hanky Panky cocktail, you can also use vodka or whiskey instead of gin. If you choose to use whiskey, you may want to add a dash of Angostura bitters to the mix.
Whichever alcohol you choose, the Hanky Panky cocktail is sure to be a classic. Serve it up with a twist of orange peel for a perfect ending to any evening.
If you’re looking for another night cap drink to try, you can’t go wrong with this Old Fashioned recipe.