Description
Tiny, shimmering pearls bursting with the rich, smoky sweetness of maple syrup and the warm depth of bourbon. A perfect introduction to molecular gastronomy that’s fun and easy to make.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons bourbon
- 3 tablespoons filtered water
- 1/4 teaspoon sodium alginate
- 1 teaspoon calcium lactate
- Optional: vanilla extract
- Optional: edible gold glitter
Instructions
- Prepare the Sodium Alginate Solution: Combine 1/4 teaspoon of sodium alginate with 3/4 cup of filtered water in a small bowl. Use an immersion blender to mix until smooth. Let air bubbles dissipate.
- Make the Maple Bourbon Mixture: Combine 1/3 cup of pure maple syrup, 3 tablespoons of bourbon, and 3 tablespoons of water in a separate bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Add Sodium Alginate to the Mixture: Slowly whisk 1/4 teaspoon of sodium alginate into the maple bourbon mixture, ensuring there are no lumps. Blend with an immersion blender for a smooth consistency. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Prepare the Calcium Bath: Dissolve 1 teaspoon of calcium lactate in 2 cups of water. Stir until completely dissolved.
- Form the Spheres: Using a pipette, gently drop the maple bourbon mixture into the calcium bath. The liquid will form into small spheres as they hit the calcium solution.
- Let the Spheres Set: Allow the spheres to sit in the calcium bath for 1-2 minutes to firm up.
- Rinse the Spheres: Carefully scoop out the spheres using a slotted spoon and rinse them in a bowl of clean water to remove any excess calcium.
- Serve: Serve immediately as cocktail garnishes, dessert toppings, or on their own.
Notes
[‘Blend thoroughly to avoid lumps in the sodium alginate mixture.’, ‘Let air bubbles rest before forming spheres for a smoother texture.’, ‘Practice dropping the liquid into the calcium bath for consistent sphere shapes.’, ‘Do not overcook the spheres in the calcium bath to avoid them becoming too firm.’, ‘Rinse spheres thoroughly to remove residual calcium.’]
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sphere
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 11
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 12
Keywords: maple bourbon spheres, molecular gastronomy, dessert, cocktail garnish, party recipe