This Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour is a cozy drink that combines warm spices with sweet maple syrup. It’s perfect for fall evenings or anytime you want a comforting sip!
Mixing it is simple: just shake up whiskey, maple syrup, lemon juice, and a pinch of cinnamon. I love serving it with a cinnamon stick for extra flair! Cheers to that! 🥃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon Whiskey: Use your favorite bourbon for a smooth and rich flavor. If you’re aiming for something lighter, try using rye whiskey instead, which gives a spicier kick.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best for this cocktail. If you’re in a pinch, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh gives a brighter taste!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a unique sweetness. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, you might try agave syrup or a sugar alternative that dissolves easily.
Ground Cinnamon: The warm spice complements the drink beautifully. If you’d like to elevate the flavor, use a cinnamon stick as garnish and let it infuse into the drink.
How Do I Get the Right Balance of Flavors?
Achieving the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spiced in this cocktail is all about the ratios. Start with the suggested amounts, but feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
- For a sweeter drink, add more maple syrup gradually; just be careful not to overpower the other flavors.
- If you like it a bit tangier, increase the lemon juice slightly.
- Shaking well is crucial! It mixes the flavors and chills the drink nicely.
Remember to taste as you go! Each ingredient plays a big role in the final taste, so adjustments can make a big difference. Enjoy making your drink!
How to Make a 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 a small cinnamon stick for garnish)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon wheel or twist, for garnish
- Optional: dash of Angostura bitters (for depth)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 5 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few moments gathering your ingredients, shaking them up, and garnishing your drink. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Shaker:
Start by filling a cocktail shaker with plenty of ice. This will help chill and blend the ingredients as you shake.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour the bourbon whiskey, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and ground cinnamon into the shaker. If you’re using bitters, add a dash now. It adds a nice depth of flavor!
3. Shake It Up:
Put the top on your shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want to mix everything well and get it nice and cold, so don’t be shy!
4. Strain and Serve:
Next, strain the mixture into a rocks glass that’s filled with fresh ice. This keeps your drink cool while pouring without adding any extra water from melted ice in the shaker.
5. Garnish Your Drink:
Now for the fun part! Garnish your cocktail with a lemon wheel or twist for a pop of color. If you like, sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon on top or add a cinnamon stick to stir with.
6. Cheers to You!
Serve immediately and enjoy your wonderfully spiced Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour. Sip slowly and savor the flavors!
Can I Use a Different Type of Whiskey?
Absolutely! While bourbon gives a rich flavor, you can also use rye whiskey for a spicier kick or even a smooth Canadian whiskey for a lighter profile. Experiment to find what you prefer!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemon Juice?
If fresh lemon juice isn’t available, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. However, fresh juice provides a brighter flavor, so try to use it if you can!
How Can I Store Leftover Cocktail Ingredients?
Store any leftover maple syrup in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator for longevity. Fresh lemon juice can be kept in the fridge for about a week. If you have leftover whiskey, just keep it sealed and away from sunlight!
Can I Make This Cocktail Ahead of Time?
While pre-mixing cocktails can cause them to lose their freshness, you can prepare the whiskey, lemon juice, and maple syrup mixture ahead of time. Just shake with ice and garnish just before serving to maintain the best flavor!