This Maple Cinnamon Whiskey Sour cocktail recipe is SO simple to make and ideal for winter months! Sub apple cider for mocktail version.
Recipe Details + Things to Know
A whiskey sour is a mixed drink that typically contains whiskey, lemon juice, sugar, and occasionally an egg white. A "sour" is any kind of cocktail that has a base of a spirit, a citrus juice, and some kind of sweetener.
Today's recipe is a bit of a change up from this! Whiskey is one of my favorite winter liquors, as it's naturally very warming and perfect for a cozy evening in (also, I find it less appealing in warm weather ). Alongside some whiskey, we're using orange juice (for some subtle natural tang, reminiscent of bitters), a bit of maple syrup for a cozy sweetness, and warming cinnamon. Orange and cinnamon remind me of the holidays, making this the ideal general holiday beverage.
Topping these off with a cinnamon stick and some sugared rosemary definitely amps up the "festive" factor. I've included how to make this (SO easy) in the recipe notes below.
What is the best whiskey to use in a whiskey sour cocktail?
Most commonly, bourbon whiskey is used in a sour. This is the same kind of whiskey you'll find in many common drinks like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or Mint Julep. Rye whiskey can be a nice change up, though it can be a little bit less sweet and generally "sharper" overall. If you have any whiskey on your bar cart right now, it's most likely regular bourbon.
For affordable options I recommend checking out Trader Joe's if you live near one. If not, Knob Creek is a classic brand that many people like.
Potential Variations + Mocktail Options
The simplest way to make this recipe non-alcoholic is to substitute apple cider for the bourbon. For a warmer option, some hot ginger tea could be nice.
If you'd like to try a more traditional take, try using lemon juice in place of orange.
As mentioned above, many whiskey sours are served with a float of an egg white. Aquafaba works well as a substitute for this, as outlined in this Concord Grape Gin Fizz recipe.
More Cozy Winter Drinks to Try Next
If you like bourbon, give this Classic Hot Toddy a try. Here are some other beverages you may like:
- Pumpkin Spice White Russian or Gingerbread White Russian
- Santa Clausmopolitan
- Vegan Hot Chocolate Mix (makes a great gift)
- Sparkling Gin Cranberry
If you give any of these a try, please leave a comment and a rating letting me know what you thought!
Maple Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey ¼ cup (apple cider for mocktail version)
- 1 oz orange juice 2 TBS, from one orange
- 1 TBS maple syrup use ½ TBS in mocktail version, as cider can be pretty sweet
- Pinch of cinnamon
- Rosemary and a cinnamon stick to serve optional see notes for sugared rosemary
Instructions
- Fill a shaker or sealable jar with some ice cubes. Add bourbon (or apple cider), orange juice, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Shake to chill, about 15 seconds.
- If desired, rub a piece of the orange rind around the rim of a chilled rocks glass to add some additional aroma. Strain the cocktail mixture into the glass. Garnish with cinnamon stick and rosemary.
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