master-cooks | How The Pink Squirrel Became An Iconic Wisconsin Cocktail

The Pink Squirrel, a creamy and sweet cocktail, has become an iconic drink in Wisconsin, known for its nostalgic charm and distinctive pink hue. Originating in the 1940s at Bryant’s Cocktail Lounge in Milwaukee, this retro cocktail was crafted by the bar's original owner, Bryant Sharp. The drink's unique flavor profile is attributed to its blend of crème de noyaux, a pink almond-flavored liqueur, crème de cacao, and heavy cream, which together create its signature pastel color and smooth texture. During the mid-20th century, the Pink Squirrel gained popularity as a dessert cocktail, often served at supper clubs and social gatherings across the state. Its rise to fame was also fueled by the post-war boom in cocktail culture and the allure of its visually striking presentation. Over the decades, the Pink Squirrel has maintained its status as a beloved Wisconsin classic, embodying the state’s rich tradition of supper clubs and its affinity for sweet, indulgent drinks. Today, it continues to be enjoyed by new generations, celebrated for both its nostalgic appeal and its role in Wisconsin’s cocktail heritage.

Bryant's Cocktail Lounge brought modern drink culture to the Midwest

Long before mixology evolved into its own vibrant subculture and the espresso martini captivated party enthusiasts, there existed a modest bar in Milwaukee known as Bryant's Cocktail Lounge. Established in 1936, it originally operated as a beer hall under the name Miller Brewing. However, by the 1940s, owners Bryant and Edna Sharp recognized the Midwest's desire for a more sophisticated cocktail lounge. While Milwaukee was home to numerous breweries and beer halls, the Sharps envisioned a dimly lit, intimate venue where locals could enjoy meticulously crafted cocktails. It was during this time that Bryant conceived the pink squirrel.

Originally crafted with ice cream, Bryant later opted for heavy cream, transforming the drink into a true cocktail rather than a milkshake—though some establishments in the upper Midwest still serve the pink squirrel as an ice cream treat. This creamy concoction quickly became a fixture on Wisconsin supper club menus, steadily gaining popularity.

Today, Bryant's remains one of Wisconsin's most beloved drinking spots, boasting a menu that features over 450 cocktails, far surpassing the pink squirrel. Despite its iconic status in Wisconsin, finding a pink squirrel on menus elsewhere can be a challenge, prompting adventurous drinkers to seek out recipes to create their own. If you ever find yourself in the Midwest, be sure to treat yourself to a glass of this delightful, boozy Wisconsin classic.

How The Pink Squirrel Became An Iconic Wisconsin Cocktail

Bryant's Cocktail Lounge brought modern drink culture to the Midwest

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