A Bourbon Smash is a refreshing whiskey cocktail that is packed full of well-balanced flavor. Served over ice, this cocktail is simple but incredibly tasty.
What is a Bourbon Smash
A Bourbon Smash is like a classic Whiskey Smash but uses American Whiskey, aka Bourbon, to add a unique flavor profile to the traditional cocktail recipe. Bourbon’s smooth texture and herbaceous flavor and aroma make it well-suited for this recipe.
This sweet-tart bourbon drink is easy to make with simple ingredients and can be enjoyed year-round. The simplicity of this drink along with its bright, complex flavor has made this cocktail a popular bar order and an easy at-home drink option.
I find that even non-bourbon drinkers enjoy this refreshing cocktail. The citrus and mint combination is perfect for those who say they’ll never drink whiskey and they will be charmed by its tasty, easy sip.
Love making bright bourbon cocktails? Then check out our delicious CLASSIC GOLD RUSH COCKTAIL or our REFRESHING BOURBON LEMONADE!
Ingredients Needed and Notes
A Bourbon Smash is made with just a few simple ingredients. Due to its simplicity, each ingredient really shines in each sip so be sure to use the best quality and freshest ingredients you can for the best flavor results.
The ingredients you will need are listed below, or you can find a full detailed recipe at the end of this post.
- Lemon. You will need a fresh lemon to muddle into the cocktail.
- Mint. Fresh mint leaves add delicious refreshing flavor.
- Bourbon. You can use any kind of bourbon whiskey that you like best to make this recipe. A good bourbon for a smash should have a balance of sweetness and spice, with a smooth finish.
- Simple syrup. Homemade or store-bought is fine! You could also use maple syrup or honey instead if preferred - the flavor will combine well with the other ingredients.
- Ice. This drink is best enjoyed cold so you will need lots of ice cubes to make and serve your Bourbon Smash.
Got some leftover bourbon? Then try out our BROWN DERBY COCKTAIL - you won't be disappointed!
Optional Recipe Additions
- Orange juice - a dash of orange juice adds extra fresh, fruity flavor and dilutes the drink slightly.
- Ginger ale or ginger beer - the spicy kick of ginger is a great addition to this drink.
- Frozen berries - you can muddle them into the Bourbon Smash or use them to keep your drink cool.
- Angostura bitters - a dash of bitterness brings a new level of complexity to the recipe.
- Soda water - adds some refreshing fizzy bubbles without altering the flavor.
- Herbs - you can use other fresh herbs, such as basil or thyme, in place of the mint if you would like a different flavor profile.
How to make a Bourbon Smash
A smash cocktail requires a good cocktail muddler. This is because you need to compress the lemon wedges well to release their juices and also the oils in the peel. This helps create a richer taste when combined with the whiskey and the fresh mint sprigs release their cooling minty notes.
To make a Bourbon Smash, you can follow the step-by-step instructions below or you can find a full detailed recipe at the end of this post.
STEP ONE
Add the lemon wedges, mint leaves, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
STEP TWO
Use a cocktail muddler (or the back of a wooden spoon) to muddle until well crushed, about 60 seconds.
STEP THREE
Add the bourbon and ice cubes. Place the lid on the cocktail shaker and shake well to combine for about 30 seconds.
STEP FOUR
Strain into a serving glass filled with ice. Add any desired garnishes and enjoy immediately.
Can you make a Bourbon Smash in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this cocktail ahead of time if hosting an event. Simply muddle the ingredients together in a large jug and then store it in the fridge for as long as required. When you are ready to serve, strain it into glasses filled with ice and enjoy.
Recipe Tips and Notes
- If you don't have a cocktail shaker, you can use a large glass jar with a lid or stir the cocktail to mix everything together.
- Like most drinks, the quality of this cocktail depends on the quality of the ingredients. Choose a high-quality brand of alcohol and fresh ingredients to achieve the best flavor profile.
- You can adjust the ratios of this drink to find the perfect balance for your preference. If you prefer sweeter cocktails you can add an extra dash of simple syrup or if you are after a boozier drink then you can add some extra bourbon.
- Use a jigger or a measuring cup to measure your ingredients accurately. A precise measurement can make a big difference in the balance and flavor of your cocktail.
- The right garnish can add an extra pop of flavor and color to your cocktail. Experiment with different fruits, herbs, and spices to find the perfect garnish for your bourbon cocktail.
Bourbon Smash
Equipment
- 1 cocktail shaker
- 1 cocktail muddler
- 1 serving glass
Ingredients
- ½ oz simple syrup or maple syrup
- ½ lemon cut into wedges
- 5 mint leaves
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- ice cubes
Instructions
- Add the lemon wedges, mint leaves, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
- Use a cocktail muddler (or the back of a wooden spoon) to muddle until well crushed, about 60 seconds.
- Add the bourbon and ice cubes. Place the lid on the cocktail shaker and shake well to combine for about 30 seconds.
- Strain into a serving glass filled with ice. Add any desired garnishes and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- If you don't have a cocktail shaker, you can use a large glass jar with a lid or stir the cocktail to mix everything together.Â
- Like most drinks, the quality of this cocktail depends on the quality of the ingredients. Choose a high-quality brand of alcohol and fresh ingredients to achieve the best flavor profile.
- You can adjust the ratios of this drink to find the perfect balance for your preference. If you prefer sweeter cocktails you can add an extra dash of simple syrup or if you are after a boozier drink then you can add some extra bourbon.
- Use a jigger or a measuring cup to measure your ingredients accurately. A precise measurement can make a big difference in the balance and flavor of your cocktail.
- The right garnish can add an extra pop of flavor and color to your cocktail. Experiment with different fruits, herbs, and spices to find the perfect garnish for your bourbon cocktail.
Nutrition
I hope you love this recipe for a Bourbon Smash as much as I do. And if you want to see more of my food adventures, follow me on Instagram or Facebook.
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