This Cranberry Bourbon Smash is a fun and zesty drink that will warm your spirits! With tart cranberries and a splash of bourbon, it’s perfect for any celebration.
I love how easy it is to mix this drink up—a little muddling, shaking, and voila! It’s a crowd-pleaser. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a drink that looks as pretty as it tastes? 🍹
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon: Any good-quality bourbon works here. If you’re looking for a unique twist, try using rye whiskey or even an apple brandy for a different flavor profile.
Cranberry Juice: Fresh cranberry juice is the best for taste. If you can’t find it, look for unsweetened juice. Avoid sweetened varieties; they can make the drink overly sweet. Alternatively, you could use pomegranate juice.
Simple Syrup: This is easy to make at home! Just mix equal parts sugar and water, and heat until the sugar dissolves. For a healthier option, you could use honey or agave syrup, but adjust the amount to taste.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Always go for freshly squeezed juice for better flavor. You can also substitute with lime juice, which adds a slightly different tart taste.
Sage Leaves: If you don’t have sage, rosemary or mint adds a lovely herbal note too. I prefer sage because it pairs wonderfully with bourbon, but feel free to experiment!
How Do You Muddle Ingredients Effectively?
Muddling is key to releasing the flavors in the cranberries and sage without turning them into a puree. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a muddler or the back of a spoon. Press down gently on the ingredients in your shaker.
- Twist your wrist to crush the berries without pulverizing everything.
- Muddle until the cranberries are slightly broken, and the flavors are released, about 5-10 seconds.
This technique will ensure you get a balanced flavor in your drink without a grainy texture! Enjoy crafting your Cranberry Bourbon Smash with these tips!
How to Make a Cranberry Bourbon Smash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz fresh cranberry juice (unsweetened)
- 1 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- Fresh cranberries (about a handful)
- A few fresh sage leaves (plus a sprig for garnish)
- Crushed ice
- Orange slice (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing drink will take you about 10 minutes to prepare! It’s quick to mix up and perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Fresh Ingredients:
In a mixing glass or cocktail shaker, place the fresh cranberries along with a few sage leaves and the simple syrup. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press down and twist to release the flavors. You want to break the cranberries a bit without turning them into mush, about 5 to 10 seconds should do it.
2. Add the Liquids:
Next, pour in the bourbon, fresh cranberry juice, and lemon juice. These will bring the zesty and rich flavors to your cocktail. Give it a little stir to combine the ingredients before shaking.
3. Shake it Up:
Fill the shaker with ice, then securely close it. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. This will chill the drink and mix all the flavors together nicely!
4. Prepare the Glass:
While your mix is shaking, grab a rocks glass and fill it with crushed ice. This will keep your drink nice and cool!
5. Strain and Serve:
Now, strain the shaken mixture into the rocks glass over the crushed ice. Watch as the vibrant color fills the glass, promising a delicious treat!
6. Garnish for Visual Appeal:
Finish off your cocktail by garnishing it with a sprig of fresh sage, a handful of whole cranberries, and an orange slice. This not only makes it look beautiful but adds a little extra aroma to enjoy as you sip.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your Cranberry Bourbon Smash immediately and get ready to savor the refreshing blend of flavors. Cheers!
Can I Use Other Types of Spirits?
Absolutely! If you’d like to switch things up, you can use rye whiskey, vodka, or even gin as a substitute. Each spirit will give the cocktail a different twist while still maintaining the cranberry flavor.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you’d like a sweeter or less sweet drink, simply adjust the amount of simple syrup. Start with 1 oz and taste the mixture before adding more, as you can always increase the sweetness but can’t take it away!
How Do I Store Leftover Ingredients?
If you have leftover cranberry juice, store it in an airtight container in the fridge and use it within a week. Simple syrup can also be kept in the refrigerator for up to a month, just make sure it’s in a sealed jar!
What Other Herbs Can I Use for Garnish?
If sage isn’t your thing, feel free to experiment with other herbs like fresh mint or rosemary. They both pair wonderfully with bourbon and add a delightful aroma to your drink!
