Are you ready to shake (or stir) things up this cocktail season? Look no further than the classic whiskey sour! This tangy and refreshing drink has been a staple in bars and homes alike for decades, and for good reason. With its perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors, it’s a drink that never goes out of style.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 19 different takes on the traditional whiskey sour recipe, each one showcasing unique twists and flavor combinations to suit every taste. From classic pairings like lemon and egg white to more adventurous infusions like maple and cinnamon or ginger and bitters, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes.
Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just looking for a new drink to add to your repertoire, these whiskey sour recipes are sure to satisfy. So grab your shaker, pour yourself a glass, and let’s get started!
Traditional Whiskey Sour with Egg White
Elevate your whiskey sour game by incorporating the silky smoothness of egg white. This traditional recipe yields a perfectly balanced drink with a velvety texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, dissolved)
– 1 egg white
– Dash of Angostura bitters
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently whisk together whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white until well combined.
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to emulsify the egg white and create a silky texture.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Add a dash of Angostura bitters on top.
Cooking Time: None! Simply prepare and serve.
Enjoy your velvety smooth Whiskey Sour with Egg White!
Maple Whiskey Sour with a Hint of Cinnamon
Elevate your classic whiskey sour with the warm, rich flavors of maple syrup and cinnamon. This unique twist on a cocktail classic is perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– Dash of Angostura bitters
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup, simple syrup, and cinnamon to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Add a dash of Angostura bitters on top.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Spiced Apple Whiskey Sour
Elevate your whiskey sours game with this autumnal twist! This Spiced Apple Whiskey Sour combines the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice with the sweetness of apple cider and a splash of whiskey.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
• 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1/2 oz apple cider
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground allspice
• Dash of Angostura bitters (optional)
• Ice
• Whipped cream and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, apple cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and chopped nuts, if desired.
6. Add a dash of Angostura bitters, if you like a little extra complexity.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in minutes.
Bourbon Whiskey Sour with Fresh Lemon Juice
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic whiskey sour. The addition of fresh lemon juice and bourbon whiskey creates a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Bourbon Whiskey
– 3/4 oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Dash of Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, just shake and serve!
Honey Whiskey Sour with a Rosemary Twist
This refreshing cocktail combines the smoothness of whiskey with the tanginess of citrus and the herbaceousness of rosemary, all tied together with a touch of honey sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz Honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz Rosemary-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Dash of Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or rosemary sprig for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, lemon juice, honey syrup, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add 1-2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or rosemary sprig.
Note: To make rosemary-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar and 2 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain and let cool before using.
Ginger Whiskey Sour with a Dash of Bitters
Add a zesty twist to the classic whiskey sour by incorporating ginger and bitters. This unique cocktail is perfect for those who appreciate bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine Canton)
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and ginger liqueur to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Add the Angostura bitters and stir gently to combine.
6. Express a lemon twist over the drink, then use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None required!
Smoky Whiskey Sour with Mezcal Infusion
Elevate your whiskey sour game with the addition of smoky mezcal and a hint of citrus. This recipe combines the classic flavors of whiskey, lemon, and sugar with the bold, smoky notes of mezcal.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 water and sugar)
– 1/4 oz mezcal
– Dash of egg white (optional)
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and mezcal.
2. Add a dash of egg white if desired for a silky texture.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Pomegranate Whiskey Sour for a Fruity Kick
Elevate your whiskey sour game with the sweet and tangy addition of pomegranate juice. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for a warm evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz pomegranate juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– Dash of Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or pomegranate seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, lemon juice, pomegranate juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Add a dash of Angostura bitters on top.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or pomegranate seeds.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Lavender Whiskey Sour with a Floral Touch
Elevate your whiskey sour game with this unique twist, featuring the subtle sweetness and floral notes of lavender.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup infused with dried lavender buds
– 1 dash Angostura bitters
– 1 egg white
– Edible flowers or lavender sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine whiskey, lemon juice, lavender-infused simple syrup, and bitters.
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Hold back the egg white in a small bowl, then slowly pour it into the cocktail while whipping the mixture with a bar spoon until frothy.
5. Garnish with edible flowers or lavender sprigs.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled cocktail.
Citrus Whiskey Sour with Grapefruit and Orange
Elevate your whiskey sour game by combining the tangy flavors of grapefruit and orange. This refreshing twist on the classic cocktail is perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you need a little brightness in your life.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz lemon juice
– Dash of orange bitters
– Ice
– Orange twist or slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, grapefruit juice, orange juice, simple syrup, and lemon juice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Add a dash of orange bitters on top.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or slice.
Cooking Time: None
Vanilla Bean Whiskey Sour for a Sweet Twist
Sweet Vanilla Bean Whiskey Sour Recipe: A Twist on a Classic
This recipe combines the tanginess of a whiskey sour with the warmth and sweetness of vanilla, perfect for a unique cocktail experience. With just a few ingredients, you can create a deliciously complex flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (infused with 1/2 vanilla bean)
– 1 dash Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Cherry Whiskey Sour with Maraschino Garnish
This classic cocktail gets a sweet and tangy twist with the addition of cherry liqueur and a maraschino garnish. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you want a refreshing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
– Maraschino cherries for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Add cherry liqueur and stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish with a maraschino cherry on a toothpick or skewer.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Peach Whiskey Sour with a Summer Vibe
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on the classic whiskey sour, featuring sweet peaches and a hint of warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz peach puree (canned or fresh, blended until smooth)
– Dash of cinnamon powder (optional)
– Ice
– Club soda
– Sliced peaches and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and peach puree.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a dash of cinnamon powder, if desired.
6. Stir gently to combine.
7. Top with club soda and garnish with sliced peaches and mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in just 5 minutes.
Earl Grey Whiskey Sour with Tea Infusion
Experience the perfect blend of citrusy freshness and sophisticated tea nuances in this unique whiskey sour recipe. By infusing Earl Grey tea into the drink, you’ll discover a harmonious marriage of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 cup Earl Grey tea leaves
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil and add the Earl Grey tea leaves. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 5-7 minutes.
2. Strain the tea into a large glass filled with ice. Discard the solids.
3. Add the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the tea-infused liquid. Stir well to combine.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (steeping time)
Spicy Jalapeño Whiskey Sour for Heat Lovers
Add a kick to your classic whiskey sour with the spicy and sweet combination of jalapeños, whiskey, and citrus. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a little heat in their cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1-2 dashes of jalapeño pepper tincture (depending on desired level of heat)
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and jalapeño tincture to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Coconut Whiskey Sour with Tropical Flavors
Elevate your whiskey sour game with the addition of coconut and tropical flavors. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a taste of paradise.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz coconut cream
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz passionfruit puree
– Splash of club soda
– Ice
– Lime wheel and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, lime juice, coconut cream, simple syrup, and passionfruit puree.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of club soda.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Caramel Whiskey Sour with a Rich Finish
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors in this unique whiskey sour recipe. The caramel syrup adds a rich, velvety texture that complements the citrus notes perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz caramel syrup
– 1 dash Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and caramel syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Add a dash of Angostura bitters on top.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Blackberry Whiskey Sour with a Berry Burst
Elevate your whiskey sour game with this sweet and tangy twist featuring blackberries and a hint of citrus. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a fruity and sophisticated drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 cup blackberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup sparkling water
– Ice cubes
– Lemon twist or blackberry for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Muddle in the blackberries (if using frozen, thaw first).
5. Top with sparkling water and garnish with a lemon twist or blackberry.
Cooking Time: None
Chocolate Whiskey Sour for Dessert Lovers
A sweet and tangy dessert cocktail that combines the deep flavors of dark chocolate and whiskey, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– 3/4 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine whiskey, white chocolate liqueur, heavy cream, simple syrup, and vanilla extract.
2. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail, not a dish that requires cooking.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with these 19 classic whiskey sour recipes! From traditional twists like egg white and maple syrup, to innovative combinations featuring cinnamon, apple, and more, there’s a recipe here for every whiskey lover. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and fruity or smoky and spicy, this collection has got you covered. So go ahead, grab your favorite whiskey and get mixing with these delicious whiskey sour recipes!
I’m Brandon, the face behind the recipes. As a dedicated food enthusiast, I love experimenting with flavors and sharing my culinary adventures with you.
