7 Ways With Whiskey

In old Westerns, cowboys saunter up to the bar for a shot of whiskey straight. But a splash of this distilled spirit is a welcome addition to savory sauces for steak, chicken and pork, and in sweet confections like ice cream, cocktails, and brownies.

Guests will be begging for this recipe once they taste the special sauce that tops these hot-off-the-grill chicken breasts. Sixty minutes in the unique whiskey-soy marinade makes for a super tender bird full of exotic new flavors.

Recipe: Grilled Chicken with Whiskey-Ginger Marinade

Filet mignon may be perfectly fine on its own, but if there's something to celebrate you'll want to try this incredible skillet sauce. Made with bourbon, instant coffee and seasonings, it makes just about any steak taste like fancy restaurant fare.

Recipe: Filet Mignon with Sweet Bourbon Coffee Sauce

Once they bite into these gooey brownies, chocoholics will rave about the deep chocolate flavor. But chances are they won't realize the secret ingredient that's making that chocolate shine. The splash of bourbon adds an oh-so-subtle flavor that makes these treats memorable.

Recipe: Bourbon Fudge Brownies

Hard to believe that a splash of maple syrup, bourbon and a sprinkling of cinnamon could transform store-bought vanilla ice cream into something that tastes so grand. Place a scoop of this spiked confection atop hot fruit pie or into hot coffee.

Recipe: Maple Bourbon Ice Cream

This easy cocktail is a fun new twist on the old-fashioned whiskey sour. Forget the sour mix; all you'll need is a jar of orange marmalade. It adds the touch of sour and sweet this cocktail is famous for and looks pretty to boot.

Recipe: Marmalade Sours

Comfort cooking doesn't get much simpler. Start out browning pork chops and mushrooms on the stovetop. Next, deglaze the pan with whiskey. Finally, cover with sour cream and bake one hour. Dinner is served, but the best part: there's just one pan to clean.

Recipe: One-Pan Whiskey-Flavored Pork Chops

Rich as it tastes, this creamy sweet sauce, laced with bourbon and studded with pecans, takes just 10 minutes to make. And chances are most of the six ingredients are already in your pantry. Use it on French toast, ice cream, or pound cake.

Recipe: Bourbon Pecan Sauce