This Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour is a cozy twist on a classic drink. It’s made with smooth whiskey, a hint of sweet maple, and a sprinkle of warm cinnamon. Perfect for chilly evenings!
Making this drink is a breeze! Just shake the ingredients with ice and you’re ready to sip in style. I love enjoying it by the fire, feeling all warm and fuzzy! 🔥🥃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon Whiskey: The heart of this drink is bourbon, which gives it a rich flavor. If bourbon isn’t available, you can use rye whiskey for a spicier note or a blended whiskey for a smoother taste. I personally love the slightly sweet notes of bourbon!
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will work, but fresh is always best for flavor.
Pure Maple Syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique sweetness compared to regular sugar. If you need a substitute, honey or agave nectar can work. Keep in mind, though, that it will change the drink’s flavor slightly.
Ground Cinnamon: This adds warmth to the cocktail. If you prefer a more intense cinnamon flavor, a whole cinnamon stick can be used as a garnish and stirred into the drink. I’ve found the fresh stick adds a lovely aroma!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Shake for Your Cocktail?
The shaking process is crucial for a well-mixed drink! Follow these tips to get it right:
- Use a cocktail shaker with ice to chill and dilute the drink. Fill it halfway with ice cubes.
- Seal the shaker tightly so it doesn’t spill. Give it a good shake for about 15-20 seconds; you want it cold!
- When straining, use a mesh strainer to catch any ice or pulp for a smooth finish. This helps avoid any watery bits in your drink.
Enjoy your cocktail with a cozy vibe! I recommend sipping it slowly to savor all the flavors. Cheers!
Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (or 1 cinnamon stick for garnish)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slice or wedge (for garnish)
- Cinnamon stick (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 5 minutes to prepare. You’ll need a little time to gather your ingredients and mix them together, but it’s quick and easy. Enjoy this warming drink any time you want a cozy moment!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
Start by taking a cocktail shaker and pour in the bourbon whiskey, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and ground cinnamon. This combo is what makes this drink so tasty!
2. Shake It Up:
Next, fill the shaker with ice cubes to chill the mixture. Cover it tightly and shake it vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. You want the drink to be well chilled, so don’t be shy with your shakes!
3. Strain and Serve:
Grab a rocks glass and fill it with fresh ice. Now, it’s time to strain the cocktail mixture into the glass. Use a strainer if you’ve got one to catch any bits of cinnamon or ice.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Garnish your drink by adding a cinnamon stick and a lemon slice or wedge on the rim. This not only looks lovely but also enhances the aroma as you sip!
5. Sip and Enjoy:
Lastly, serve your drink right away and enjoy the delicious warm, spicy, and sweet flavors of the Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour. Perfect for any cozy occasion!
Can I Use a Different Type of Whiskey for This Cocktail?
Absolutely! While bourbon is the classic choice for a Whiskey Sour, you can experiment with other types like rye whiskey for a spicier kick or blended whiskey for a smoother flavor. Just keep in mind that this will subtly alter the character of the drink!
What If I Don’t Have Maple Syrup?
No worries! You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup, but remember that it will change the flavor slightly. If you use honey, consider warming it slightly to help it mix more easily.
Can I Make This Cocktail Without Alcohol?
Yes! For a delicious non-alcoholic version, simply replace the bourbon with a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative or use iced tea or sparkling water. Adjust the sweetness with more maple syrup if needed, and enjoy a refreshing mocktail!
How Should I Store Leftover Ingredients?
If you have leftover maple syrup, store it in a cool, dark place or refrigerate it for up to a year. Fresh lemon juice can be refrigerated for about 3-4 days; alternatively, you can freeze it in ice cube trays for longer use!
