The Cranberry Whiskey Sour is a refreshing drink that blends the tangy taste of cranberries with smooth whiskey. It’s bright and perfect for any occasion!
I love how easy it is to mix up! Just shake the ingredients together, pour, and enjoy. It’s like a party in your glass! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon or Whiskey: Use your favorite bourbon for a sweet, rich flavor. If you like something different, rye whiskey adds a spicier kick. For a lighter option, consider a flavored whiskey.
Fresh Cranberry Juice: Fresh juice brightens up this drink. If fresh isn’t available, use a high-quality bottled unsweetened cranberry juice. You can also use cranberry cocktail juice, but it’s sweeter.
Simple Syrup: If you prefer a less sugary drink, adjust the syrup to taste or make your own by boiling equal parts sugar and water until dissolved. Agave syrup or honey can also work as substitutes!
Egg White: This ingredient adds a nice frothiness to the drink. If you’re concerned about raw eggs, you can skip this or use aquafaba (chickpea water) for a vegan alternative.
How Do I Get That Perfect Foam in My Cocktail?
Getting a nice foam from egg whites can be tricky, but here’s the secret: the dry shake. This means shaking the ingredients without ice first. It helps the egg whites mix better and froth up nicely!
- Combine all ingredients (except ice) in a shaker.
- Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds; you want to see foam forming.
- Then add ice and shake again until chilled. This two-step process really makes a difference!
Now you’ll have a drink that looks as great as it tastes!
Cranberry Whiskey Sour
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
- 1 oz fresh cranberry juice (unsweetened)
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 egg white (optional, for frothiness)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish
- Sprig of rosemary or pine, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cocktail can be prepared in about 10 minutes. It’s quick to mix, and shaking up the ingredients is a fun part of the process. Plus, if you let it chill for a minute after shaking, your drink will be perfectly refreshing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a cocktail shaker, add the bourbon or whiskey, fresh cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using). This mix is the base of your drink!
2. Shake It Up:
Next, do a dry shake—this means shaking without ice. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds. This helps the egg white whip up into a nice foam, which makes your drink look and taste even better!
3. Chill It Down:
Now, add ice cubes to the shaker. Give it a good shake again until the mixture is well chilled. You’ll want it nice and cold, so don’t be shy with the shaking!
4. Pour and Garnish:
Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Beautiful already, but we’re not done! Garnish your drink by skewering fresh cranberries on a cocktail pick and adding a sprig of rosemary or pine on top. It adds a lovely festive touch!
5. Enjoy!
Your Cranberry Whiskey Sour is now ready to enjoy! Sip on this bright, refreshing drink and impress your friends with your cocktail-making skills!
Can I Use Store-Bought Cranberry Juice?
Absolutely! If fresh cranberry juice isn’t available, a high-quality, unsweetened store-bought cranberry juice works well. Just avoid juices that are sweetened or mixed with other flavors for the best taste.
What Can I Substitute for the Egg White?
If you’d prefer to avoid egg whites, you can skip it entirely or use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) instead. It provides a similar frothy texture without using egg.
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
You can easily adjust the simple syrup to your taste! Start with the recommended amount and then add more if you like it sweeter. You can also try using honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile.
Can I Make This Cocktail in Advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the base ingredients (without ice or egg white) in advance and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to serve, just shake with ice and garnish for that fresh taste!
