A Street Corn Named Desire

This savory-sweet stunner is inspired by the bold, smoky flavors of Mexican street corn. Fresh sweet corn is muddled right into the shaker, giving this cocktail a rich, buttery base that pairs beautifully with bright lime, smooth agave, and the grassy complexity of tequila and Empirical's Cilantro spirit. A few dashes of tobacco bitters add depth, while the smoked paprika salt rim brings the fire.

Served over ice and garnished with a corn wheel and a very generous bunch of cilantro, this is summer in a glass—with a little attitude.

Ingredients:

• Muddle fresh sweet corn (about 2 tbsp kernels)

• 3 dashes tobacco bitters

• 1 oz fresh lime juice

• ½ oz agave nectar

• 1 oz Blanco Tequila

• 1 oz Empirical Spirits Cilantro

Instructions:

1. Rim your glass with smoked paprika and salt.

2. Muddle fresh sweet corn in your shaker.

3. Add all remaining ingredients and shake hard with ice for 10–15 seconds.

4. Double strain into the rimmed glass over fresh ice.

5. Garnish with a corn wheel and a bold bouquet of cilantro.

A Street Corn Named Desire is one of those cocktails that surprises people—in the best way. It’s savory, tangy, and just a little smoky, with layers of flavor that unfold with every sip. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or just love a good twist on seasonal ingredients, this one’s worth adding to your summer rotation.

Want to see it in action? Watch the full how-to video here.