It’s no secret that I’ve gotten into cocktails during this crazy pandemic! I have had so much fun creating them but the bar tools really changed the game. Not only are the cocktails more authentic but I feel like a real pro! This post will outline 9 essential bar tools to make better cocktails at home!
1. Cocktail Shaker | 2. Cocktail Glass | 3. Strainer | 4. Bottle Opener | 5. Muddler | 6. Ice Bucket | 7. Cocktail Stirrer | 8. Wine Opener | 9. Jigger | 23-Piece Bamboo Set | Copper Bar Tool Set | 7-piece Set |
9 Essential Bar Tools
Cocktail Shaker:
A cocktail shaker comes in a few varieties. I use a 2-piece one but this 3-piece one is very common. This is the official way to shake/mix and chill your cocktails!
Cocktail Glass:
We are grown! Time to let the Solo cups go (except for larger gatherings) and get you some real cocktails glasses. Official cocktails are usually about 6-8 ounces so the proper glass not only helps with the presentation but also rations out the good stuff ;).
Strainer:
Serving a cocktail chilled vs. on the rocks are two different things. If you get the shaker that doesn’t have a built-in strainer, you will want to strain your ice out prior to serving. The purpose is so you don’t water down/dilute your cocktails as you enjoy them!
Bottle Opener:
Nothing kills a party like not being able to open your beer! I know we are all very innovative, but keep it cute and get a nice bottle opener for you and your guest!
Muddler:
If you have tried my Blueberry Lemon Spritz you know how muddling fruit for cocktails can add amazing flavor! A muddler can serve many different purposes in the kitchen but definitely an essential bar tool as you get into more jazzy drinks!
Ice Bucket:
We all know the purpose of ice when it comes to cocktails. As you become the best host in your friend group, you will realize it’s the little things that elevate you lol. An ice bucket will keep your ice from melting and also keep people out of your freezer.
Cocktail Stirrer:
As you learn more about the art of cocktail making, you will know that all cocktails are not meant to be shaken. When you are making large batches in a mixing glass or a champagne cocktail a stirrer will come in handy.
Wine Opener:
Do I even have to explain? One time in college my homegirl and I didn’t have a wine opener and we took some pretty drastic measures to get that bottle of wine open (leave me a comment on my Instagram post if you want the rest of the story). But get one, we are grown.
Jigger:
As we all get older it’s only natural that we prefer a better quality of liquor. You need a jigger not only for economic purposes, but you also don’t want to compromise the taste of your cocktails by adding too much of one ingredient. Most jiggers come with a 1 oz and 2 oz side which are standard cocktail measurements!
I hope this post not only helps you find the essential tools to build out your bar but also helps you fully step into the role of Entertainer lol! Having the proper bar tools will make it much easier to execute all the fancy cocktails you use to order when outslide was open!
XOXO, Laya
This was very helpful, we could use a muddler, strainer, and a jigger in this house, lol! I just keep telling myself, one thing at a time, one thing at a time – otherwise, imma go broke buying all this stuff, ha ha ha ha!
So happy to hear that!! Check out the links in the post all of those things together should be under $20 total!!!!
Thanks for the reminder that I should also have a cocktail stirrer in case I prepare drink not meant to be shaken. I’m interested in looking for new bar tools because I recently had my kitchen remodeled. I now have a space specifically dedicated for a bar.
That’s going to be such a fun project!!