13 Classic and Easy Bourbon Cocktail Recipes
Bourbon cocktails bring a warm depth to your drink repertoire, combining the distinctive taste of bourbon with simple mixers.
Bourbon’s robust character shines in each recipe, ideal for sipping slowly and savoring.
From the smoky sweetness of an old fashioned to the bright notes of a bourbon smash, Bourbon cocktails are straightforward yet sophisticated.
Here are 13 cocktails ideas to try.
Bourbon Apple Cider
Warm bourbon apple cider brings comfort on chilly days.
The rich flavors of sweet apples blend beautifully with the smoothness of bourbon, creating a cozy drink perfect for gatherings.
Don't forget to add cinnamon and nutmeg for an extra warmth.
Bourbon Sour
A bourbon sour makes for a drink, perfect after a long day or during the weekend.
This cocktail combines flavors from orange peel, lemon juice, sugar, and bourbon in a balanced way.
The result is refreshing with just the right amount of sweetness.
Garnishing with cherries adds an appealing pop of color to the glass.
Blackberry Bourbon Smash
One of the standout bourbon drinks is the blackberry bourbon smash.
This refreshing cocktail shines with its light and tangy flavor, making it enjoyable throughout the year.
Soda water adds a bubbly touch, ensuring it feels less heavy than darker options.
A beautiful color enhances its appeal, especially when garnished with fresh blackberries.
Adding a hint of mint introduces an herbal note that complements the drink nicely.
Boulevardier Cocktail
A Boulevardier cocktail serves as an excellent choice for those seeking a sophisticated drink at home.
This bold and flavorful mix is perfect for enjoying by the fire or during a leisurely evening walk with friends.
The combination of bourbon, simple syrup, and orange angostura bitters creates a harmony of flavors that enhances each ingredient's character.
Using one large ice cube instead of crushed ice prevents dilution, ensuring the drink maintains its rich taste longer.
Whiskey Highball
A highball ranks among the easiest bourbon cocktails to prepare.
Only bourbon, soda water, and ice cubes are necessary for this refreshing drink.
Guests will appreciate its simplicity during summer gatherings without needing elaborate recipes.
No matter if the whiskey is premium or budget-friendly, the flavor remains appealing to many palates.
Surprisingly quick to make, this cocktail can impress friends while requiring just a few minutes of your time.
New York Sour
Sour drinks combine lemon with a whiskey base, creating a contrast.
Fresh lemon juice and bourbon work in harmony, balancing tartness with warmth.
As you enjoy this drink, the strong sourness softens while sweet and bitter notes merge beautifully.
A red wine float adds an elegant touch on top, making it feel special even at home.
Kentucky Mule
A Kentucky mule features fresh lime juice, bourbon, and simple syrup alongside ginger beer for a refreshing taste.
Choosing a premium bourbon enhances the drink’s quality and prevents it from being overpowered by the ginger beer's boldness.
Large ice cubes work well to maintain the drink's integrity without diluting its flavor too quickly.
This cocktail balances acidity with sweetness, creating an enjoyable drink.
Gold Rush Cocktail
A bourbon drink from the gold rush era remains a favorite due to its flavor.
This cocktail looks elegant and is easy to prepare, making it appealing for warm summer days.
A lemon peel serves as a garnish, with an option to slightly char it for an added smoky taste.
When the weather is getting hot, this refreshing choice stands out among other beverages.
Bourbon Manhattan
A classic cocktail glass holds this drink, which can be garnished with a maraschino cherry or a twist of orange peel.
The addition of bourbon elevates the flavor, giving it an extra kick that complements its spicy notes.
Cloves and cinnamon syrup contribute to the warm profile, making this beverage perfect for fall parties.
Classic Old Fashioned
An old fashioned drink showcases the rich flavor of bourbon beautifully.
This cocktail requires a few ingredients: bourbon, bitters, sugar, and an orange peel.
Guests will appreciate this straightforward recipe for a afternoon treat.
For an extra burst of flavor, maraschino cherries can replace regular ones.
Maple Bourbon Smash
A refreshing bourbon drink with a hint of sweetness awaits.
Lemon juice and simple syrup blend beautifully with bourbon, enhancing the flavors.
Topping it off with maple syrup adds an extra layer of sweetness that delights the palate.
This recipe shines during fall, offering a cozy taste perfect for relaxing evenings.
Bourbon Sidecar
Serving this drink in a coupe glass enhances the experience, inviting slow sips.
A mix of bourbon, triple sec, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and orange peel creates a flavorful treat.
For those without simple syrup at home, using two parts regular sugar works well as an alternative.
Topping it off with an orange peel slice adds visual appeal and flavor.
Plus, here is one tip: folding the peel in half releases fragrant zest.
John Collins
A refreshing twist on the classic cocktail features bourbon instead of gin.
High-quality bourbon enhances the drink's rich flavor, making it truly enjoyable.
Soda water adds a light touch, setting this option apart from heavier choices.
This John Collins recipe demonstrates an excellent way to mix with bourbon.