Classic Jack and Coke Cocktail
Few cocktails are as instantly recognizable—or as effortlessly satisfying—as the classic Jack and Coke cocktail. With just two ingredients, this timeless drink delivers bold flavor, smooth sipping, and zero fuss. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, relaxing at home, or ordering at your favorite bar, the combination of Jack Daniel’s whiskey and Coca-Cola hits the spot every time. In this post, you’ll learn why this iconic cocktail has stood the test of time, how to serve it just right, and fun facts that make it more than just a drink—it’s a legend in a glass.
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What is Jack Daniel’s?
Jack Daniel’s is a Tennessee whiskey that has been produced since 1888. An interesting tidbit is that Jack Daniel was taught his distilling technique by Nathan “Nearest” Green, an enslaved man who was emancipated at the end of the Civil War. Uncle Nearest, as he later became known, continued to work for Jack Daniel for many years.
Nearest Green is widely credited with creating the Lincoln County process of distilling. This is a key element in the production of Tennessee whiskey. The process involves filtering unaged whiskey through charcoal made from sugar maple trees, a technique that gives the whiskey its distinctive smooth flavor. Green’s expertise in this process was instrumental in shaping the industry, and he is credited as the first African-American master distiller.
Why you’ll love Jack and Coke
This is a cocktail I began drinking in college in the mid-80s. I was old enough to drink in college in Florida, and it was an easy drink to make.
- Easy to make with just two ingredients. Both ingredients are purely American.
- It’s a great beginner cocktail since it’s so easy to make.
- Great for parties, game nights, or casual sipping.
- Smooth and familiar flavor everyone recognizes.
- Customizable to personal taste (stronger or milder).
What do I need to make Coke with Jack Daniels?
You need less than five minutes and three ingredients – ice, Coca-Cola, and Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Whiskey. Experiment with the proportions to get the flavor you like. The recipe below calls for one and a half ounces of whiskey, which is the equivalent of one shot. If you want a stronger cocktail, add more whiskey, a little at a time. No cocktail shaker needed!
My son wanted to taste the drink after I made it, and he said, “That’s a GOOD Jack and Coke”. The key is to pour half the Coke into the ice-filled glass, then add the Jack Daniel’s and the balance of the Coke. Don’t stir or mix. I used Mexican Coke, and I think that improved the flavor, too.
How do you serve Jack Daniel’s and Coke?
This cocktail is served “on the rocks”, meaning over ice. This is not a drink you serve “up” or “neat”, meaning warm with no ice. It is a mixed drink and is always served over ice. While you can use either a rocks glass or a highball glass, a rocks glass is preferable. If you use a highball glass, you may want to adjust the proportions of whiskey and cola.
Typically, Jack and Coke is garnished with a cherry, but you could also use a wedge of lime. I prefer using cherries because then the drink is not confused with a rum and coke which is traditionally garnished with a lime wedge.
Jack and Coke Cocktail Variations
Take the classic version to the next level by switching it up. Instead of regular Coke, try cherry Coke, vanilla Coke or even one of the Coke Zero varieties. Add a dash of bitters or a splash of lime juice. For a really fun twist, especially on a hot day, make a Jack and Coke slushie.
More Whiskey Cocktails
If you’re a whiskey drinker, you want to try this cranberry whiskey sour, which is perfect for serving during the holidays.
More Two-Ingredient Cocktails
When you want a simple cocktail after a busy day, with few ingredients, try a dill pickle martini or red wine cocktail.
What is the difference between Jack and Coke and whiskey and Coke?
Jack and Coke uses Jack Daniels whiskey specifically, which gives it a distinctive Tennessee flavor.
Can I use diet soda?
Yes! Diet Coke and Coke Zero are acceptable substitutes for regular Coke.
Jack and Coke
Ingredients
- 1½ ounces Jack Daniel's Whiskey
- 4 ounces Coca-Cola soda I used Mexican Coke.
- Ice
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a rocks glass with ice and add 2 ounces of Coca-Cola. Then add the shot of Jack Daniel's Whiskey and the remaining 2 ounces of Coke.
- Garnish with maraschino cherries. Serve.