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This Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail brings a bright twist to classic bourbon drinks with a perfect balance of tart cranberry and warm maple sweetness. It’s easy to make and feels just fancy enough for quiet nights in or casual gatherings with friends.
I first mixed this up on a chilly evening when I craved something sweet but refreshing. It’s become my go-to cocktail when I want a little cozy cheer in a glass.
Ingredients
- Bourbon: Two ounces of bourbon because it’s the bold base that carries the flavors well. Pick a good quality one you enjoy sipping on its own
- Unsweetened cranberry juice: One ounce of unsweetened cranberry juice adds tart freshness and keeps it from getting too sugary. Look for a vibrant, natural juice for the best taste
- Maple syrup: One ounce of maple syrup balances tartness with smooth sweetness. Choose pure maple syrup rather than pancake syrup for better depth
- Lemon juice: Half an ounce of lemon juice to brighten the drink and enhance the other flavors. Fresh squeezed is best here
- Ginger ale: Ginger ale to taste provides a fizzy lift and gentle spice. A natural ginger ale enhances the profile without overwhelming it
- Cranberries for garnish: Add festive color and a hint of natural tartness. Fresh or frozen are both fine
Instructions
- Combine The Core Ingredients:
- Pour the bourbon cranberry juice maple syrup and lemon juice into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. This ensures the flavors chill and mingle perfectly.
- Shake It Well:
- Shake the mixture vigorously for about thirty seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold. This chills the drink and blends the flavors smoothly.
- Prepare Your Glass:
- Fill a glass with crushed ice. Crushed ice chills the drink quickly and dilutes it just slightly to balance the sweetness.
- Strain And Finish:
- Strain the chilled mixture over the crushed ice to keep it clear and bright. Then top it with ginger ale according to your preferred level of fizz and spice.
- Garnish And Serve:
- Add a few cranberries to the top for a pop of color and extra aroma. Serve immediately for the freshest taste and best presentation.
Maple syrup is my secret weapon here. It adds this deep richness that complements bourbon surprisingly well. I remember the first time I tried it I was delighted at how the cocktail felt warm without being heavy which made it great for late fall evenings.
Storage tips
Keep any leftover cranberry juice and maple syrup in the fridge separately. The cocktail itself is best freshly made but if needed you can mix the bourbon and juices ahead and store in a sealed container for up to two days. Wait to add ice ginger ale and garnish until serving.
Ingredient swaps
Try honey in place of maple syrup for a different but still smooth sweetness. You can swap lemon juice with lime juice for a more zesty vibe. Using club soda instead of ginger ale will make the drink less sweet but bubblier and more neutral.
Serving ideas
Serve this cocktail alongside rich cheeses or roasted nuts which pair well with the bourbon’s warmth. It also works beautifully with dessert like dark chocolate truffles for a cozy treat after dinner.
This cocktail is a wonderful mix of vibrant flavors and cozy warmth that’s perfect any time of year.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What is the best bourbon to use?
A smooth, mid-range bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes complements the tart cranberry and maple sweetness nicely.
- → Can I substitute ginger ale with another mixer?
Yes, sparkling water or club soda can be used if you prefer a lighter, less sweet finish.
- → How should the drink be served?
Serve over crushed ice to keep it cool and provide a refreshing texture with every sip.
- → Can fresh cranberries be replaced with something else for garnish?
Fresh cranberries add a tart contrast and visual appeal, but a twist of lemon peel or a cinnamon stick can work as alternatives.
- → Is maple syrup essential in this mixture?
Maple syrup adds depth and natural sweetness that balances the tart and citrus flavors, but honey can also be used as a substitute.