Are you in the mood for a cocktail that’s sweet yet balanced? The Treacle, crafted by the late Dick Bradsell, mixes Rum, Apple Juice, and a hint of gentle bitterness. Despite its sugary name, it’s not just about rich sweetness. It offers a simple yet comforting flavour for Rum lovers seeking a mellow drink with a soft apple twist.
The Treacle is often seen as a friendly cocktail that appeals to many taste buds. Its base is Rum, which brings a warm, slightly spicy character. Then there’s Apple Juice, adding a fresh tang and a light, fruity fragrance. To keep it from becoming too sweet, bartenders usually include a few dashes of Angostura Bitters, offering a mild herbal bite that balances everything out. Some recipes call for a small amount of Sugar or a sweet syrup, but it’s generally used sparingly, so the drink does not taste cloying.
Visually, the Treacle has a soft golden-brown colour. A small garnish of fresh apple slices or a simple orange twist can highlight its friendly appeal. On the palate, each sip delivers a gentle sweetness, followed by subtle spice from the Rum and a faint hint of bitter dryness from the bitters. Thanks to this interplay, it feels smooth and satisfying rather than overly sugary.
This has earned popularity in modern cocktail bars and remains a testament to Dick Bradsell’s knack for designing easy-to-love drinks. Whether you’re new to Rum cocktails or a seasoned fan, the Treacle is a delightful choice that doesn’t ask too much from the drinker—just a willingness to enjoy something warm and inviting.
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a smooth swirl of sweet Rum and fresh apple that feels both cozy and satisfying.
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Did you know that Treacle...
... originally used muddled brown sugar, mirroring the syrupy quality behind its name?
Who invented this cocktail
The Treacle was created by Dick Bradsell in London, though the exact date isn’t firmly recorded.
The origin and history of "Treacle"
Introduced in late-20th-century London, The Treacle is often traced back to the inventive mind of Dick Bradsell, who also gave us other famous Rum and Vodka cocktails. Bradsell was known for mixing simple yet refined recipes that appealed to a wide range of drinkers.
Over the years, the Treacle’s easy-going mix of Rum, Apple Juice, and a dash of Angostura Bitters started to pop up at various pubs and lounges, especially in the UK. While it never became a top-selling classic like some of Bradsell’s other creations, its warm, mellow taste continues to win over those looking for a relaxed and comforting cocktail experience.
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Bartender Tips for making the perfect "Treacle"
To make the perfect Treacle, try these tips:
Use a dark or aged Rum for extra depth and flavour.
Opt for pure Apple Juice to preserve fresh, natural notes.
Lightly adjust Sugar or syrup to taste, keeping sweetness in check.
Add a few drops of Angostura Bitters for gentle herbal complexity.
Give it a good stir with ice rather than shaking to maintain smoothness.
Treacle recipe
Prep: 3 minTotal: 5 min
Ingredients
50 ml DARK RUM
10 ml APPLE JUICE
5 ml SUGAR SYRUP
2 dashes ORANGE BITTERS
1⅔ oz DARK RUM
⅓ oz APPLE JUICE
⅙ oz SUGAR SYRUP
2 dashes ORANGE BITTERS
Garnish
APPLE SLICE
Preparation
Prepare the glass with some ice
Pour all the ingredients into the glass
Stir gently till all ingredients have blended
Garnish and serve
Nutritional Info
Calories:129 kcal
Alcohol units:2.1 units
ABV (Alcohol By Volume)~32%
Dietary Info
VeganVegetarianGluten-freeDairy-free
Country of origin: United Kingdom
"Treacle" Variations
Treacle Twist – Replaces Apple Juice with spiced apple cider for a fall-inspired vibe.
Tropical Treacle – Swaps Apple Juice for Pineapple Juice, adding a bright, sunny sweetness.
Bold Treacle – Introduces a float of overproof Rum for extra punch and warmth.
Treacle Sour – Includes a small dose of Lemon Juice for more tang and a lighter finish.
Skinny Treacle – Cuts down on added Sugar in favour of a drier, more straightforward taste.
Take a moment to enjoy every sip of the Treacle, a drink that wraps you in gentle warmth. Its balance of sweet Rum, crisp apple, and light bitterness shows how a simple idea can become a treasured favourite. It’s a friendly companion for any quiet evening or easygoing gathering.
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Current Comments: 3
Sarah99
Nov 8, 2024
Equal parts demerara and maple syrup adds complexity. Angostura bitters work better than orange here.
TropicalTender
Jul 30, 2024
Fresh pressed apple juice only - commercial ruins the balance. Try Plantation OFTD for intense molasses notes.
RumRunner_X
Jun 15, 2024
Smith & Cross rum adds incredible funk. Try replacing sugar with honey syrup for more complexity.
Leave a comment
All comments are moderated before appearing on the site and will be reviewed within 24 hours.
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Current Comments: 3