These Christmas Bourbon Cocktails are warm, festive drinks that bring cheer to any holiday gathering. With bourbon, spices, and a hint of sweetness, they are truly delightful!
I love mixing up a batch to share with friends. There’s something about these cozy drinks that makes everyone feel happy and relaxed. Plus, they smell amazing while simmering on the stove! 🎄🥃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon: Choose a smooth bourbon for the best flavor. Can’t find bourbon? Try other whiskey types like rye or even brandy for a similar warmth and complexity.
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider is ideal, but you can use store-bought varieties. If unavailable, unsweetened apple juice makes a decent substitute.
Maple Syrup: For sweetness, maple syrup adds a lovely flavor. If you need a substitute, use honey or agave syrup, but remember to adjust the amount since honey is sweeter.
Ground Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon enhances the festive flavor. No ground cinnamon? Try using a cinnamon stick during shaking or opt for pumpkin pie spice for a different twist!
How Do You Get the Perfect Balance of Flavors?
Mixing the right quantities is key to a great cocktail. Start with the bourbon and apple cider, as they set the foundation. Then, add lemon juice and maple syrup carefully. You want a balance of sweet and tart.
- Always taste your cocktail after shaking. This helps you find the right balance or decide if you need a dash more sweetness or tartness.
- Using fresh ingredients like lemon juice brings brightness. Bottled juice can be convenient but isn’t as tasty.
Remember that garnishes are not just pretty—they add aroma and flavor with every sip, making it enjoyable and festive!
Christmas Bourbon Cocktails
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz fresh apple cider
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz maple syrup (or simple syrup)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Apple slices (for garnish)
- Cinnamon stick (for garnish)
- Orange peel twist (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Christmas Bourbon Cocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus a few minutes for garnishing. It’s the perfect recipe to whip up just before your holiday gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Cocktail Shaker:
Start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. This will help chill the cocktail quickly and evenly.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, add the bourbon, fresh apple cider, lemon juice, maple syrup, and ground cinnamon into the shaker. The combo of flavors will create a wonderful base for your cocktail!
3. Shake It Up!
Put the lid on your shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want everything nicely mixed and well chilled—this is the fun part!
4. Prepare Your Glass:
Grab a rocks glass and fill it with crushed or regular ice, depending on your preference. This makes your drink look refreshing and inviting!
5. Strain and Serve:
Now it’s time to pour! Strain the cocktail mixture from the shaker into the prepared glass filled with ice. Take a moment to admire the beautiful color!
6. Garnish for Festivity:
For the final touch, garnish your cocktail with skewered fresh cranberries, an apple slice, and a cinnamon stick. It’s like a festive decoration you can drink!
7. Optional Touch:
If you like, add a twist of orange peel for an extra citrus aroma that complements the spices beautifully.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your Christmas Bourbon Cocktail immediately and enjoy the festive flavors with friends and family. Cheers and happy holidays!
This refreshing cocktail encapsulates the essence of the holiday season with its warming spices and fruity notes, guaranteed to spread joy and warmth at any celebration!
Can I Use Non-Alcoholic Alternatives for This Cocktail?
Absolutely! For a non-alcoholic version, replace the bourbon with extra apple cider or use a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative. This way, you can still enjoy the festive flavors without the alcohol!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Cocktail?
If you prefer a sweeter taste, feel free to add more maple syrup or simple syrup to your liking. Start with a small amount and taste as you go until you reach the desired sweetness!
What If I Can’t Find Fresh Apple Cider?
No worries! If fresh apple cider isn’t available, you can use unsweetened apple juice as a substitute. Try to find a juice that doesn’t contain added sugars for the best flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any mixed cocktail left, it’s best to store it in the fridge for up to 1 day. Just remember that the ice will melt and dilute the flavors, so it’s ideal to serve fresh whenever possible!
