If you’re a fan of Bloody Marys, you know that the mix is the heart and soul of this iconic cocktail. McClure’s Bloody Mary Mix stands out with its bold, tangy, and perfectly balanced flavors, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
What if we told you that you can easily recreate this delicious mix right in your own kitchen? This homemade recipe captures the vibrant spices, the savory tomato base, and the subtle heat that McClure’s is famous for—without any preservatives or artificial ingredients.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking to impress friends with your mixology skills, or simply want to enjoy a refreshing drink on a lazy weekend afternoon, this McClure’s Bloody Mary Mix recipe is your go-to.
The best part? You can customize the spice level and flavor profile to your liking.
Let’s dive into making your own batch of this classic cocktail staple!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This McClure’s Bloody Mary Mix recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful, thanks to a perfectly balanced blend of spices and fresh ingredients. Unlike store-bought mixes, this homemade version is free from preservatives and unnecessary additives.
It’s versatile—you can tweak the heat, acidity, and seasoning to suit your taste. Plus, making your own mix means you can enjoy a fresher, more vibrant Bloody Mary that tastes like it was crafted by a pro bartender.
Whether you prefer a milder or spicier drink, this recipe has you covered.
By preparing your mix at home, you also save money and reduce waste, as you can make just the right amount you need. Ready to shake things up?
Let’s check out the ingredients!
Ingredients
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano or high-quality brand)
- 6 oz tomato juice
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp horseradish (prepared, not powdered)
- 2 tsp hot sauce (such as Tabasco, adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp celery salt
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced or grated
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pickles or pickle juice (McClure’s is famous for its pickles!)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl or pitcher
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Fine mesh strainer (optional, for a smoother texture)
- Glass bottles or jars for storing the mix
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients. Finely chop the pickles and garlic. Measure out all your spices and liquids to have them ready for mixing.
- Combine the tomato base. In your mixing bowl or pitcher, pour the crushed tomatoes and tomato juice together. Stir gently to blend.
- Add the acid and flavorings. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and horseradish. These ingredients give the mix its signature tang and depth.
- Spice it up. Add the hot sauce, celery salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and sugar. Whisk thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Add fresh garlic and pickles. Mix in the minced garlic and chopped pickles or a splash of pickle juice. This adds an unmistakable McClure’s pickle flavor punch.
- Adjust and chill. Taste your mix and adjust seasonings as needed—add more hot sauce for heat, more lemon juice for brightness, or a pinch more sugar if too acidic.
- Strain (optional). For a smoother texture similar to the store-bought mix, strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove solids.
- Store properly. Pour your Bloody Mary mix into clean glass bottles or jars. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.
Tips & Variations
“For a truly authentic McClure’s flavor, don’t skip the pickles or pickle juice—it’s the secret ingredient that makes this mix stand out!”
- Adjust spice level: If you prefer a milder mix, reduce the cayenne and hot sauce. For a fiery kick, add extra horseradish and hot sauce.
- Try different vinegars: White wine vinegar or red wine vinegar can be substituted for apple cider vinegar for subtle variations in acidity.
- Make it smoky: Add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked salt for a deeper smoky flavor.
- Vegan Worcestershire sauce: Use a vegan version to keep the mix plant-based.
- Herbal twist: Add fresh herbs like dill or celery leaves for a fresh aroma.
- Batch prep: This mix can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to one week.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 4 oz serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 40 |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on exact ingredients and brands used.
Serving Suggestions
The best way to enjoy your homemade McClure’s Bloody Mary Mix is in a classic Bloody Mary cocktail. Simply combine 4 oz of your mix with 2 oz of vodka in a shaker with ice, stir gently, and strain into a glass rimmed with celery salt.
Garnish with a stalk of celery, a wedge of lemon, olives, pickles, or even bacon for an extra indulgent touch. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the vodka and enjoy a refreshing Virgin Mary with all the bold flavors.
You can also use this mix as a savory marinade for grilled shrimp or chicken or as a spicy base for tomato soups and stews. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion
Making your own McClure’s Bloody Mary Mix at home is a rewarding way to enjoy one of the most beloved cocktails with fresh, vibrant, and customizable flavors. This recipe captures the essence of the original mix with the perfect balance of tanginess, spice, and that signature pickle kick.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving a refreshing drink, this mix will elevate your Bloody Mary experience to a whole new level. Plus, it’s easy to tweak to your personal taste preferences, making it a versatile staple for your home bar.
Don’t forget to check out some of our other delicious recipes to complement your cocktails, like our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals, and Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.
Cheers to homemade goodness and flavorful sips!
📖 Recipe Card: McClure's Bloody Mary Mix Recipe
Description: A tangy and spicy Bloody Mary mix inspired by McClure's signature flavors. Perfect for cocktails or as a zesty tomato base.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M
Servings: 6 cups
Ingredients
- 4 cups tomato juice
- 1/2 cup McClure's spicy pickle brine
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
- 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Combine tomato juice and McClure's spicy pickle brine in a large pitcher.
- Add horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, celery salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, lemon juice, and sugar.
- Whisk all ingredients together until well blended.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Stir well before using in cocktails.
Nutrition: Calories: 25 | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0g | Carbs: 5g
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