Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe

Cocktail enthusiasts, prepare yourselves for a true taste of Southern charm – the Bourbon Smash. This cocktail combines the rich taste of Bourbon whiskey with fresh mint and lemon.

And that gives you a drink that is both satisfying and easy to make. Perfect for any occasion, the Bourbon Smash has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among cocktail lovers.

Pin

What’s In the Bourbon Smash

Pin

To make a great Bourbon Smash, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

Bourbon

Bourbon is the star of this cocktail. Look for a high-quality Bourbon that you enjoy drinking neat, as its flavors will be prominent in the final mix.

You can’t go wrong with any of these:

• Buffalo Trace Bourbon
• Evan Williams Black Label
• Bulleit Bourbon
• Woodford Reserve
• Four Roses Yellow Label
• Maker’s Mark
• Knob Creek

Fresh Mint

Mint adds a refreshing element to the Bourbon Smash. You’ll want to use fresh mint leaves, as dried mint won’t provide the same vibrant flavor.

Lemon Juice

Fresh lemon juice adds a nice tartness that balances out the sweetness of the Bourbon. It’s best to use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor.

Simple Syrup

Simple syrup is used to sweeten the cocktail without overpowering it. You can easily make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over heat until combined.

Ice

Crushed or pebble ice is ideal for this cocktail because it chills the drink quickly and dilutes it just enough to balance the flavors.

How to Make a Bourbon Smash

Pin

Now that you know what you’ll need, let’s walk through the steps to make a delicious Bourbon Smash:

1. Muddle the Mint: Start by placing fresh mint leaves in a mixing glass or cocktail shaker. Gently muddle (press) the leaves to release their oils without shredding them too much.
2. Add Other Ingredients: Pour in the Bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Fill the shaker or mixing glass with crushed or pebble ice.
3. Shake or Stir: Shake or stir the mixture for about 10-15 seconds until it’s well combined and chilled.
4. Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with more crushed ice to keep it cold.
5. Garnish: Add a sprig of fresh mint and a slice of lemon for garnish.

Helpful Tips for Making the Very Best Bourbon Smash

Following the recipe will give you a great drink, but you can use these tips to make it even better.

Muddle Gently

When muddling the mint leaves, be careful not to overdo it. The goal is to release the aromatic oils without tearing the leaves into tiny pieces.

Over-muddling can lead to a bitter taste in your cocktail. A gentle press is all you need to extract the mint’s flavor.

Balance Sweetness and Acidity

Taste your cocktail as you prepare it. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add a little more simple syrup.

Or if you like a more tart flavor, increase the lemon juice slightly.

Opt for Crushed Ice

Using crushed or pebble ice not only keeps your cocktail cold but also dilutes it just enough to achieve the right consistency. If you don’t have a way to crush ice, you can place ice cubes in a zip-top bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or mallet.

Chill Your Glassware

For an even more refreshing experience, chill your glassware before serving. This simple step helps keep your cocktail colder for longer and enhances the overall drinking experience.

Experiment with Garnishes

While a sprig of mint and a lemon wheel are classic garnishes, don’t hesitate to get creative. Consider adding other garnishes like a cinnamon stick or fresh berries to enhance both the flavor and visual appeal of your drink.

Pairing with Food

The Bourbon Smash pairs well with many foods. Serving it with grilled meats, spicy appetizers, or desserts like fruit tarts.

Variations on the Bourbon Smash

Spiced Bourbon

You can use a spiced Bourbon that includes flavors like cinnamon or vanilla for an extra layer of complexity.

Fruit Additions

Feel free to add fresh fruit like berries or citrus slices to your mixture. This can introduce new flavors and make your cocktail visually appealing.

Herbal Twists

In addition to mint, try using other herbs like basil or thyme for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Also check out the Pumpkin Bourbon Smash, if you love pumpkin spice!

Use Different Citrus

Experiment with juices from oranges or grapefruits instead of lemon for a different kind of freshness.

More Like This