This Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour is a fun twist on the classic drink! With sweet maple syrup and a hint of cinnamon, it’s perfect for cozy evenings.
I love how the warm flavors mingle together—it’s like a hug in a glass! When I serve this, I always add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for extra flair. Cheers! 🥃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon Whiskey: A smooth bourbon is key for this drink. If you need a substitute, try rye whiskey for a spicier flavor, or even a non-alcoholic whiskey for a mocktail version.
Lemon Juice: Fresh is always best for the tartness! If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works too, but use a bit less since it’s stronger in flavor.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a unique sweetness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, agave syrup or honey could be good alternatives, but they will change the flavor profile a bit.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon blends nicely in the drink, but a cinnamon stick is great for garnish. You could also use a dash of nutmeg for a different spice kick!
How Do I Shake a Cocktail Properly?
Shaking a cocktail well is crucial for proper blending and chilling. Here’s how to get it right:
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes to about halfway full.
- Measure and pour in your ingredients—don’t forget to add the cinnamon!
- Seal the shaker tightly. This is important to avoid spills!
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want to feel the outside of the shaker getting cold.
- When done, hold the strainer over the opening as you pour the drink into a glass filled with fresh ice.
Happy shaking! You’ll love watching all the flavors come together.
How to Make a Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz pure maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (or 1 small cinnamon stick for garnish)
- Ice cubes
- Cinnamon stick (for garnish, optional)
Time Needed:
This delightful cocktail takes about 5 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to mix up and perfect for any gathering or cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shaker:
Grab a cocktail shaker! Start by filling it halfway with ice cubes. This will help cool your ingredients quickly.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Add your bourbon whiskey, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and ground cinnamon into the shaker. This is where all the magic begins!
3. Shake It Up:
Seal the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want the mixture to be well-blended and chilled. You’ll feel the outside of the shaker get cold—that’s a good sign!
4. Strain and Pour:
Using a strainer, carefully pour the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice. This keeps your drink cool while preventing any bits of cinnamon from floating around.
5. Garnish with Flair:
Place a cinnamon stick across the top of your glass for a lovely garnish. If you want to get fancy, sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon on top to enhance the aroma.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to enjoy your cozy, flavorful Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour! Sip, relax, and let the warm flavors embrace you!
Can I Use a Different Type of Whiskey?
Absolutely! While bourbon works beautifully in this recipe, you can swap it out for rye whiskey for a spicier kick or even a blended whiskey for a smoother taste. Just keep in mind that it may alter the overall flavor profile slightly.
Can I Substitute the Maple Syrup?
Yes, you can use agave syrup or honey as substitutes. However, using them will change the sweetness and flavor a bit. If you want a less sweet drink, you can reduce the amount of syrup while adjusting the other ingredients to your taste.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover mix (without ice), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give it a good shake before serving again! Keep in mind that fresh lemon juice can lose some potency, so it’s best enjoyed soon after making.
Can I Make a Non-Alcoholic Version?
Yes! For a delicious mocktail, replace the bourbon with a mix of apple cider and a splash of ginger ale. You can keep the maple syrup and lemon juice for sweetness and tartness, and don’t forget the cinnamon for that cozy touch!