The Best Hurricane Cocktail Recipe: A Taste of New Orleans

INTRODUCTION

Hey there, fellow foodies! Are you ready to join me on a journey down south and experience the refreshing and delicious flavors of the Hurricane Cocktail? As the Mardi Gras capital of the world, New Orleans has given us many culinary wonders, but nothing beats the iconic Hurricane Cocktail.

Today, we’ll be whipping up the classic Hurricane Cocktail, which perfectly captures the essence of the Big Easy. This rum-based drink is a beloved staple in the city, enjoyed all year round, but especially during the Mardi Gras festivities.

With its sweet and tangy blend of flavors, the Hurricane Cocktail is the ultimate companion to gumbo, jerk butter seafood boil, jerk chicken, curry fried chicken, and all our summer eats. And let’s not forget the soulful jazz music that completes the perfect New Orleans experience. So, let’s get ready to shake things up and mix up a storm with our easy-to-follow recipe and helpful tips!

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What is Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras is a festive celebration that happens in many parts of the world, but it’s most popularly associated with New Orleans. It’s a time for people to dress up in colorful costumes, dance in the streets, and indulge in delicious food and drinks.

The name “Mardi Gras” means “Fat Tuesday” in French, and it refers to the tradition of eating rich, fatty foods on the day before the start of Lent, a period of fasting and reflection in many Christian religions.

In New Orleans, Mardi Gras is a huge event that lasts for several weeks and culminates in a parade on Fat Tuesday, where people throw beads and trinkets to the crowds. It’s a time to let loose, have fun, and enjoy the company of friends and family. Laissez les bons temps rouler!

What Is Hurricane Cocktail?

The Hurricane Cocktail is a rum-based cocktail made with a combination of fruit juices, syrup, and ice. It is typically served in a hurricane glass with a garnish of orange wedges and a cherry. The cocktail has a sweet and tangy flavor and is known for its tropical and refreshing taste. The Hurricane Cocktail is a classic New Orleans cocktail that is often served at summer parties and on beach vacations.

The Story Behind the Iconic Hurricane Cocktail

The Hurricane Cocktail has an enduring legacy in the city of New Orleans and is a true icon of its history and culture. Pat O’Brien’s bar in the French Quarter first created the drink in the 1940s, and it quickly became a local and tourist favorite. The bar used the excess rum that was forced upon them during World War II to make this delicious drink, which is traditionally served in a glass shaped like a hurricane lamp, which is how it got its name.

The Hurricane Cocktail’s association with Mardi Gras has helped solidify its status as a symbol of the city’s culture and traditions. Whether you’re sipping on this fruity and refreshing drink during the festive season or any other time, it’s a fun way to celebrate and pay homage to the vibrant spirit of New Orleans. That’s why it’s a must-try for anyone visiting the Big Easy.

The Great Cocktail Debate: Hurricane vs Mai Tai vs Rum Punch?

The Hurricane Cocktail is often compared to other rum-based drinks like the Mai Tai and Rum Punch. So let’s break it down:

The Mai Tai is a cocktail that originated in California in the 1940s, made with rum, lime juice, orange curaçao, and orgeat syrup.

The Rum Punch is a popular Caribbean drink made with rum, fruit juices, and spices.

The Hurricane Cocktail differs from these drinks in its unique combination of sweet and sour flavors and its association with New Orleans and Mardi Gras.

Hurricane Cocktail Mixing 101: Dark Rum vs Spiced Rum

While dark rum is traditionally used in a Hurricane Cocktail, I decided to use spiced rum instead for a slightly different flavor profile. Spiced rum is a type of dark rum that has been infused with various spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg. This substitution adds a warm and complex flavor to the cocktail, making it a great alternative for those who want to switch things up. While I have your attention, let’s do a quick overview of both rums.

Spiced rum is a type of dark rum that has been infused with spices and sometimes other flavorings such as vanilla or caramel. The spices in spiced rum can vary but often include cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.

Dark rum, on the other hand, is a rum that has been aged for a longer period of time, which gives it a more complex flavor and a darker color. While both spiced rum and dark rum can be used in a Hurricane Cocktail, they will add slightly different flavor profiles to the drink.

NOTE: In 2020, the well-known Appleton Special Rum (spiced rum) underwent a rebranding and is now referred to as Kingston 62 Jamaica Gold Rum. According to various sources, the rum remains unchanged in terms of its recipe and taste. Although I have not yet tried the newly named Kingston 62, I still have a limited supply of the original spiced rum. I will provide an update once I have had the opportunity to purchase and sample Kingston 62.

Hurricane Cocktail Mixing 101: Mastering the Perfect Hurricane Cocktail with These 10 Tips

1. Use high-quality rum for the best flavor. I use and recommend using Wray and Nephew White Rum and Appleton Estates Special Rum for this recipe.
2. When pouring the ingredients into the shaker, pour the heaviest and most viscous liquids first, such as the grenadine and fruit juice, followed by the lighter and less dense liquids such as the rums and lime juice. This will make it easier to mix the cocktail.
3. Shake the cocktail for a full 15 seconds to properly combine the ingredients and create a frothy head on top of the drink.
4. Adjust the sweetness or tartness of the drink to your liking by adding more grenadine syrup or lime juice, respectively.
5. For a spicier kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the shaker before shaking the cocktail.
6. Use fresh juices for the best flavor. Avoid using pre-packaged or canned juices if possible.
7. Chill the glass before serving the cocktail to keep it cold for longer.
8. Garnish the cocktail with an orange slice and cherry on a cocktail pick for a touch of elegance.
9. For a non-alcoholic version, replace the rum with pineapple juice or ginger ale.
10. To make a large batch of the cocktail for a party, simply multiply the recipe by the number of servings you need or use the recipe card to scale it up.

Hurricane Cocktail Mixing 101: Mistakes to Avoid for a Delicious Cocktail

There are a few common mistakes that can make or break your Hurricane Cocktail experience.

• Be sure to use the correct ratios of rum and juice, and don’t be afraid to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
• Use enough ice to properly chill and dilute the cocktail, but don’t overdo it, or your drink will become too watery.
• Be sure to shake the cocktail long enough to properly mix and aerate the ingredients, and don’t forget to strain it before serving.

Raise Your Glass: Stylish Ways to Serve Your Hurricane Cocktail

While the classic Hurricane glass is the most traditional way to serve this cocktail, there are plenty of other options to consider.

Stemless wine glasses or mason jars can give the drink a more modern look while using a tall, narrow Collins glass will help keep the layers of the drink separated.

Ultimately, the type of glassware you choose will depend on the occasion and your personal preference.

Elevate your Hurricane Cocktail: Expert Tips for Garnishing Your Hurricane

Garnishes are the perfect finishing touch to any cocktail, and the Hurricane is no exception. They add color, texture, and flavor to your drink, enhancing the overall drinking experience.

Classic garnishes for a Hurricane cocktail include an orange wedge and a cherry on top, but more creative options include a pineapple leaf, a slice of fresh mango, or even edible flowers. To add a little extra flair, try rimming the glass with sugar and adding a colorful paper umbrella.

How to Make Hurricane Cocktail Ice Cubes

If you want to take your Hurricane Cocktail to the next level, try making ice cubes infused with fruit juice. Simply mix together the fruit juices in the recipe (orange, passion fruit, and mango) and pour them into ice cube trays.

Freeze them until solid, and then add them to your cocktail for an extra burst of fruity flavor. You can also use fun-shaped ice molds to create unique and playful ice cubes that will make your cocktail even more visually appealing.

Shaking Things Up: A Guide to Cocktail Shakers

If you’re looking to make a delicious Hurricane Cocktail, you’re going to need a shaker. But with so many different types of shakers out there, it can be hard to know which one to choose. Here’s a guide to the most common types of cocktail shakers:

A Boston shaker

A Boston shaker is a two-piece shaker made up of a metal bottom and a glass or metal top that fit together. The Boston shaker is ideal for shaking cocktails that contain juice, egg whites, or other ingredients that need to be vigorously mixed together. It is also commonly used in busy bars, as it allows for the quick and efficient preparation of multiple drinks at once.

To use a Boston shaker, simply add the ingredients to the bottom half, add ice, and fit the top piece onto the bottom. Shake vigorously, and strain the drink into a glass.

A regular shaker, or Cobbler shaker

A regular shaker, or Cobbler shaker, is a three-piece shaker that includes a metal tumbler, a built-in strainer, and a cap. It is a great option for beginners, as it is easy to use and does not require additional tools. The built-in strainer makes it easier to pour drinks directly into a glass, without needing to strain the cocktail separately. Cobbler shakers are usually used for simple cocktails that do not contain a lot of ingredients that need to be mixed together.

French shaker

French shakers are two-piece shaker like the Boston shaker, but both pieces are metal. They are popular in Europe and are gaining popularity in the US due to their sleek design. They can be more challenging to open after shaking because both pieces are metal, but they are ideal for shaking cocktails that contain citrus, egg whites, or cream.

To use a French shaker, add the ingredients to the bottom half, add ice, and fit the top piece onto the bottom. Shake vigorously and separate the two pieces to strain the drink into a glass.

In summary, the Boston shaker is ideal for cocktails that need to be vigorously mixed and is preferred in busy bar settings, while the regular shaker is easy to use and is better suited for simple cocktails.

The French shaker is perfect for cocktails with citrus, egg whites, or cream and is a great option for those who prefer a sleek design. Whichever shaker you choose, make sure to have fun experimenting with different cocktail recipes and find the one that works best for you.

INGREDIENTS RUNDOWN

The Hurricane Cocktail is made with a combination of white and dark rum, lime juice, orange juice, passion fruit juice, mango juice, grenadine syrup, and ice. Each of these ingredients plays an important role in creating the cocktail’s unique flavor profile.

Rum

White Rum – This type of rum is light and crisp and adds a clean, refreshing flavor to the Hurricane Cocktail.

Dark Rum – This type of rum has a richer and more complex flavor and adds depth and complexity to the cocktail.

Fruit Juices

Lime juice – provides a tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the fruit juices and grenadine syrup.

Orange juice – adds a sweet and citrusy flavor to the cocktail.

Passion fruit juice – provides a tropical and sweet flavor that complements the rum and other fruit juices.

Mango juice – adds a sweet and fruity flavor that pairs well with the other tropical flavors.

Sweetener

Grenadine syrup – Adds a sweet, fruity flavor and a beautiful red color to the cocktail.

Ice

Ice – adds texture, helps to dilute the drink, which in turn balances the flavors of the various ingredients. The ice also helps to keep the drink cold, making it refreshing and enjoyable to drink. Without ice, the drink would be too strong and the flavors would not be as well-rounded.

Grab your Grocery List

Ingredients To Make this Hurricane Cocktail

• 1-ounce mango passion fruit juice (For the mango passion juice, I used homemade, but you can also add store-bought juice. To make your own, blend 1 whole super-ripe mango with 1/2 ounce passion fruit juice, which can be made from 1-2 passion fruits. Or, you can add 1/2 oz. of mango juice from a store-bought bottle.)
• 1/2 ounce grenadine syrup
• 1-ounce orange juice (1/2 a medium orange)
• 1-ounce lime juice (1 medium lime)
• 1-ounce white rum (I used Wray and Nephew White Rum)
• 1-ounce dark rum (I used Appleton Estates Special Rum)
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• Ice

Below is the recipe for a homemade mango-passion fruit juice that I made to use in my Hurricane Cocktail.

How to Make Your Own Mango Passion Fruit Juice for a Perfect Hurricane Cocktail

Mango and passion fruit are two of the key ingredients in the iconic Hurricane Cocktail, adding a tropical twist to the classic drink. Making your own fresh mango passion fruit juice can take the flavor of the cocktail to the next level. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious homemade juice that will elevate your Hurricane Cocktail to new heights.

Here’s what you need:

• 1 ripe super-ripe mango, peeled and cubed
• 4-5 passion fruits, halved
• 1/4 cup water
• Sweetener (optional), such as honey or sugar

Instructions:

1. In a blender, puree the cubed mango and water until smooth.
2. Strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing the solids with the back of a spoon to extract as much juice as possible.
3. Scoop the pulp and seeds from the passion fruits into the sieve with the mango puree. Press the pulp and seeds through the sieve to extract as much juice as possible.
4. Discard any remaining solids in the sieve.
5. Add sweetener to taste, if desired.
6. Stir the mixture well and use immediately, or store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

You can adjust the amount of mango and passion fruit to your liking, as well as the amount of water, to achieve the desired consistency. This homemade juice can be used in the Hurricane Cocktail recipe as a substitute for store-bought juice.

How to Sweeten Your Cocktails Like a Pro: Making Your Own Simple Syrup

Making simple syrup at home is really easy, and it can be a great way to add a little sweetness to your drinks and cocktails. All you need is some sugar and water.

• To make it, start by combining equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan. I usually use one cup of sugar and one cup of water, but you can adjust the amounts depending on how much syrup you need.
• Next, heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool completely.
• That’s it! Your simple syrup is ready to use. You can store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a month, and use it to sweeten everything from lemonade to coffee to your favorite cocktails.

PREPARATIONS

How to Make the Best Hurricane Cocktail

Hey there, party people! Let’s get ready to mix up a storm!

• Grab your cocktail shaker or mason jar and fill it with ice.
• Pour in the passion fruit juice and mango juice (homemade or store-bought).
• Add the white rum, dark rum, lime juice, orange juice, and grenadine syrup. Remember, thicker ingredients go first!
• Cover the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to chill and combine all the flavors.
• Grab your Hurricane Glass and fill it with ice.
• Strain the cocktail from the shaker into the glass.
• If you’re feeling fancy, garnish the drink with an orange slice and cherry on a cocktail pick.
• Finally, Serve it up, and don’t forget to raise a glass to the Mardi Gras season! Enjoy!

^{Need the full, printable recipe? No problem! Just check out the recipe card below for all the ingredients, measurements, and instructions you’ll need. And if you prefer to have a visual guide, we’ve got you covered with a recipe video that will walk you through the process step by step.}

Hurricane Cocktail Recipe Video (coming soon)

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Caloric Breakdown for this Hurricane Cocktail

Nutrition Facts	Amount Per Serving
Calories	187
Total Fat	0 g
Saturated Fat	0 g
Trans Fat	0 g
Cholesterol	0 mg
Sodium	9 mg
Total Carbohydrate	21 g
Dietary Fiber	0 g
Total Sugars	17 g
Protein	0 g
Vitamin D	0 IU
Calcium	12 mg
Iron	0 mg
Potassium	106 mg

Mix Up a Storm with a Large Batch of Hurricane Cocktail

Get the party started with a large batch of Hurricane Cocktail that’s perfect for sharing! Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or having a few friends over, this fruity and refreshing cocktail is sure to be a hit. Mix up a storm and let the good times roll with this easy and delicious recipe.

First, grab a pitcher and add the thicker juices – the homemade mango passion juice and the grenadine syrup. Then, add the white rum and dark rum, followed by the lime juice and orange juice.

Give everything a good stir with a long spoon or stirrer.

Next, add ice to the pitcher until it’s about three-quarters full.

Stir the ingredients and ice together thoroughly.

When you’re ready to serve, fill hurricane glasses with ice and pour in the Hurricane Cocktail. If desired, garnish with orange wedges, cherries, or other tropical fruits.

Enjoy the refreshing flavors of the Hurricane Cocktail with your friends and family! And remember, if you don’t have homemade mango passion juice, you can use store-bought mango juice and passion fruit juice separately. 4 oz. passion fruit juice (homemade or storebought) 4 oz. mango juice (homemade or storebought)

• 8 ounces of Mango Passion Fruit Juice (For the mango passion juice, I used homemade, but you can also add store-bought juice. To make your own, blend 2 whole super-ripe mangoes with 4 ounces of passion fruit juice, which can be made from 4-6 passion fruits. Or, you can add 4 ounces of mango juice from a store-bought bottle.)
• 4 ounces grenadine syrup
• 8 oz. lime juice
• 8 ounces of orange juice
• 8 ounces white rum
• 8 ounces of dark rum
• Ice

Instructions

1. Gather your ingredients: white rum, dark rum, lime juice, orange juice, passion fruit juice, mango juice, grenadine syrup, and ice.
2. In a pitcher, add all your ingredients.
3. Add ice to the pitcher until it is about three-quarters full.
4. Use a long spoon or stirrer to mix the ingredients and ice together thoroughly.
5. Serve in hurricane glasses filled with ice and garnish with orange wedges, cherries, or other tropical fruits if desired.
6. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Hurricane Cocktail with friends and family! Don’t forget to raise a glass to the Mardi Gras season! Cheers!

Remember to adjust the ingredients based on your personal preference and the size of your pitcher. And if you’re making a large batch, be sure to keep an eye on the ice level and add more as needed to keep the drinks nice and cold.

This pitcher recipe would yield about 64 ounces of Hurricane cocktail and serve 6 to 8 people.

RECIPE FAQS

Substitutions & Additions

Variations & Twists

Looking to add some variety to your Hurricane Cocktail recipe? Try these fun and easy variations on the classic recipe. From a spicy Dark and Stormy twist to a bright blue Category 5, these recipe variations will add a new level of excitement to your cocktail game.

1. Dark and Stormy: For a spicy twist on the Hurricane Cocktail, replace the orange juice and mango juice with ginger beer. The ginger beer adds a kick of spice and complements the rum’s rich, complex flavors.
2. Category 5: To give your Hurricane Cocktail a tropical twist, add blue curaçao to the recipe. The blue curaçao not only adds a bright blue color to the drink but also a delicious citrusy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients.
3. Virgin Hurricane: For a non-alcoholic version of the Hurricane Cocktail, simply omit the rum from the recipe and add a bit more passion fruit juice or other fruit juice of your choice. You’ll still get the refreshing tropical flavors without the alcohol.
4. Strawberry Hurricane: To give your Hurricane Cocktail a fruity twist, replace the mango juice with fresh strawberry puree. Simply blend fresh strawberries with a bit of water or juice, and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds. The resulting puree adds a sweet, fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients in the cocktail.
5. Pineapple Hurricane: For a tropical spin on the classic Hurricane Cocktail, replace the orange juice and mango juice with fresh pineapple juice. The pineapple juice adds a sweet, tangy flavor and a tropical vibe that’s perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.

Food Pairings

Hurricane Cocktails pair well with a variety of dishes, particularly those with spicy, bold, or tropical flavors. Some popular options include spicy Cajun or Creole cuisine, seafood dishes such as grilled shrimp or fish tacos, and tropical fruits like pineapple or mango. Other complementary flavors and ingredients include lime, cilantro, coconut, and jerk.

Our favorite dishes to pair with the Hurricane Coctail

• Curry Fettuccine and Jerk Shrimp: The bold flavors of the Hurricane Cocktail complement the spiciness of the jerk shrimp and the creaminess of the curry fettuccine.
• Jerk Butter Seafood Boil: This seafood boil seasoned with jerk butter and spices pairs perfectly with the tropical flavors of the Hurricane Cocktail.
• Oven Roasted Jerk Chicken: The smokiness and spiciness of the jerk chicken pair well with the fruity and refreshing notes of the Hurricane Cocktail.
• Jerk Sauce: Dip some crispy plantain chips or grilled vegetables into a flavorful jerk sauce for a delicious snack to enjoy with your Hurricane Cocktail.
• Margarita Shrimp: A zesty and tangy appetizer made by marinating shrimp in tequila, lime juice, and spices. The shrimp are then grilled to perfection, creating a mouthwatering dish that pairs perfectly with the tropical flavors of a Hurricane Cocktail.

GOT LEFTOVERS?

Storage and Re-Serve

If you have any leftover Hurricane Cocktail, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Transfer the remaining cocktail to an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid, such as a mason jar or a cocktail shaker with a lid.
2. Store the container in the refrigerator or freezer to keep the cocktail chilled. If you plan to consume it within a day or two, the refrigerator is sufficient. However, if you want to keep it for longer, store it in the freezer instead.
3. If you have a larger batch of leftover cocktail, consider storing it in a pitcher with a lid or a large glass bottle.
4. Try to remove as much air from the container as possible before sealing it to prevent the cocktail from oxidizing and losing flavor.
5. When ready to enjoy the leftover cocktail, give it a good shake or stir before pouring it into a glass.

A few useful tips for storing leftover Hurricane Cocktail:

• Don’t keep the cocktail for too long. Cocktails are best consumed fresh, and the flavors and textures may change over time. Try to consume the leftover cocktail within a day or two at most.
• Consider adding fresh ice to the cocktail when serving to ensure it is properly chilled.
• If the cocktail has lost some of its carbonation, consider adding a splash of sparkling water or soda to liven it up.
• You may want to label the container with the date and contents to avoid any confusion later.

BOTTOM LINE

Step into the heart of Mardi Gras with this iconic New Orleans drink, the Hurricane Cocktail. The best part? You don’t have to travel to the Big Easy to enjoy it. With our easy-to-follow recipe and expert tips, you’ll be mixing up a hurricane in no time. From its colorful history to its mouthwatering variations, we’ve shared our ultimate guide to the Hurricane Cocktail. We hope you’ve enjoyed this journey through the flavors and secrets of one of the most beloved cocktails in the world. Now, it’s your turn to shake things up!

Laissez les bons temps rouler! Cheers to a festive Mardi Gras season, and we hope our guide to the Hurricane Cocktail helps make your celebrations even more enjoyable. Try out our recipe, put your own spin on it, and share your creations with us on social media and tag us @kerriannskravings. Let’s raise a glass to the spirit of New Orleans and the joy of good food and drink. Cheers! xx

Kraving More?

If you enjoyed this Hurricane Cocktail recipe, be sure to check out my other cocktail recipes and rum cocktails or browse The Recipe Index for even more delicious beverage options. There are plenty of krave-worthy rum cocktails and other libations to choose from!

Key Equipment/Products Use

Hurricane Cocktail Glasses

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Mason Jar

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Highball Glasses

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High Speed Blender

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Pitcher

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Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum

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BACARDÍ White Rum

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Myers’s Dark Rum

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Rum Alternative

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Spiced Rum Rum Alternative

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Glass Cocktail Shaker

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Boston Cocktail Shaker

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wide mouth mason jars

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French Shaker

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Fine mesh Strainer (3 piece set)

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Nutritional Disclaimer

The nutritional information provided on kerriannskravings.com for the recipes on the site is an estimate only and is offered as a courtesy. It is recommended to calculate the nutritional information for a recipe using the actual ingredients used. Please refer to our Nutritional Disclaimer for more information.