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Caramel Bourbon Sea Salt Slushie

This frozen beverage combines rich caramel and a splash of bourbon, blended with crushed ice to create a smooth, slushy texture. Infused with toasted sea salt, it offers a complex balance of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors, with an appealing icy appearance and velvety finish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Beverages
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar for caramel
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt toasting is optional
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 2 cups crushed ice preferably pre-chilled

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Saucepan

Method
 

  1. Combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns a golden amber, about 3–4 minutes. Carefully add a pinch of sea salt and swirl the pan to incorporate; cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract if using. Let the caramel cool slightly.
  2. Pour the slightly cooled caramel into a blender; add bourbon and a pinch more sea salt if desired for extra flavor. Blend on low briefly to mix everything evenly. The caramel might be slightly sticky but will soften in the blending process.
  3. Add the crushed ice to the blender and secure the lid. Blend on high speed until the mixture is fully combined, very thick, and resembles a slushy consistency—about 30–45 seconds. You should hear it pulverize the ice and see a smooth, icy texture develop.
  4. Check the texture; if the slushie is too runny, add a handful more crushed ice and pulse again for a few seconds until it reaches your preferred consistency. This helps keep it cold and thick.
  5. Pour the slushie into chilled glasses, allowing the icy, caramel-tinted beverage to overflow slightly and showcase its velvety, textured appearance.
  6. Garnish with a light sprinkle of toasted sea salt on top and, if desired, a small caramel drizzle for extra visual appeal. Serve immediately with a straw or spoon for a decadent, icy treat.

Notes

For deeper caramel flavor, toast the sugar slightly before adding water. Adjust bourbon for more or less boozy flavor. Use high-quality crushed ice for best texture.