18 Classic Bourbon Cocktail Recipes Delicious

Ready to elevate your home bartending game? Bourbon, with its rich, smooth flavor, is the star of these 18 classic cocktails that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply unwinding after a long day, these recipes promise to delight your palate. From timeless favorites to inventive twists, there’s a bourbon cocktail here for everyone. Let’s dive into these delicious concoctions!

Old Fashioned Bourbon Cocktail

Unwind with a classic Old Fashioned Bourbon Cocktail, a timeless drink that combines simplicity with depth of flavor. Perfect for sipping slowly, it’s a must-know for any home bartender.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (use a high-quality brand for best flavor)
• 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp granulated sugar)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 orange peel (for garnish)
• 1 maraschino cherry (for garnish, optional)
• Ice cubes (preferably large for slower dilution)

Instructions

1. Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass. If using granulated sugar, add it directly.
2. Add the Angostura bitters onto the sugar cube. Let it soak for a few seconds to meld flavors.
3. Muddle the sugar and bitters together until the sugar is mostly dissolved. A small splash of water can help if needed.
4. Fill the glass with large ice cubes to the top, ensuring they’re packed tightly to minimize melting.
5. Pour the bourbon over the ice, stirring gently for about 30 seconds to chill the drink without over-diluting.
6. Express the orange peel over the glass by twisting it to release oils, then rub the peel around the rim before dropping it in.
7. Garnish with a maraschino cherry if desired, skewered on a pick or dropped in.

Perfectly balanced, this cocktail offers a smooth sip with a hint of sweetness and aromatic citrus. Serve it with a single large ice cube to keep it chilled without watering down the rich bourbon flavor.

Bourbon Manhattan

Zesty and bold, the Bourbon Manhattan is a classic cocktail with a smooth finish. Perfect for sipping on a quiet evening or serving at gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (use a high-quality brand for best flavor)
• 1 oz sweet vermouth (chilled)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters (adjust to taste)
• 1 maraschino cherry (for garnish, optional)
• Ice cubes (for chilling)

Instructions

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes to chill it, then discard the ice.
2. Add 2 oz bourbon, 1 oz sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes Angostura bitters to the mixing glass.
3. Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds until well chilled. Tip: Stirring, not shaking, preserves the clarity and texture of the drink.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass. Tip: Chilling the glass beforehand keeps the drink colder longer.
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry if desired. Tip: For an extra touch, lightly rinse the cherry in bourbon before adding.

The Bourbon Manhattan offers a rich, velvety texture with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Serve it in a vintage glass to enhance the classic cocktail experience.

Whiskey Sour with Bourbon

Great for any occasion, this Whiskey Sour with Bourbon combines bold flavors with a smooth finish. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned mixologists.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (use a high-quality brand for best flavor)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice (strained for smoothness)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 egg white (optional for frothiness)
• Ice cubes (for shaking and serving)
• Angostura bitters (a dash for garnish)
• Maraschino cherry or lemon twist (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to chill the ingredients.
2. Add 2 oz bourbon, 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz simple syrup to the shaker.
3. For a frothy texture, add 1 egg white to the shaker. Secure the lid tightly.
4. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to fully mix and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice cubes.
6. Add a dash of Angostura bitters on top for aroma and flavor.
7. Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a lemon twist for a decorative touch.

Delightfully balanced, this cocktail offers a tangy yet sweet profile with a velvety texture. Serve it in a chilled glass to enhance its refreshing qualities.

Bourbon Mint Julep

Just in time for summer, this Bourbon Mint Julep is your go-to refresher. Simple, bold, and perfectly balanced, it’s a classic with a kick.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (use a high-quality brand for best flavor)
• 8 fresh mint leaves (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Crushed ice (fill to the top of the glass)

Instructions

1. In a julep cup or glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup to release the oils. Avoid over-muddling to prevent bitterness.
2. Fill the glass to the top with crushed ice, packing it down lightly.
3. Pour the bourbon over the ice, allowing it to seep through the cracks for even distribution.
4. Stir the mixture with a bar spoon for about 15 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.
5. Top with more crushed ice, forming a small mound above the rim.
6. Garnish with a mint sprig by lightly slapping it between your hands to release aroma, then place it on top.

Crisp and invigorating, this Bourbon Mint Julep offers a sweet minty start with a smooth bourbon finish. Serve it in a chilled silver cup for an authentic touch or enjoy it straight from the glass for immediate satisfaction.

Bourbon Smash

Let’s dive into making a refreshing Bourbon Smash, perfect for summer evenings. This cocktail balances sweetness, citrus, and the warmth of bourbon.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (use a quality brand for best flavor)
• 1 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice (strained for smoothness)
• 4-5 fresh mint leaves (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 cup crushed ice (more for serving)
• Lemon wheel and mint sprig (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup to release the oils.
2. Add the bourbon and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with crushed ice, then shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture slightly.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh crushed ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a mint sprig for a fresh aroma.

Zesty and vibrant, this Bourbon Smash offers a perfect blend of flavors. Serve it with a short straw to enjoy the layers of mint and lemon with every sip.

Bourbon Highball

Get ready to mix a refreshing Bourbon Highball, perfect for summer evenings or casual gatherings. This classic cocktail balances the warmth of bourbon with the crispness of soda, creating a drink that’s both simple and sophisticated.

Ingredients

– 2 oz bourbon (use your favorite brand for best flavor)
– 4 oz club soda (chilled for extra refreshment)
– Ice cubes (large cubes melt slower, keeping your drink cool)
– Lemon twist (for garnish, adds a citrusy aroma)

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes to the top.
2. Pour 2 oz of bourbon over the ice.
3. Top with 4 oz of chilled club soda, gently stirring to combine.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist by twisting it over the drink to release oils, then placing it on the rim.
5. Serve immediately for the best taste and carbonation.
The Bourbon Highball offers a smooth sip with a lively fizz, ideal for those who appreciate a straightforward yet flavorful drink. Try it with a slice of orange for a different twist.

Bourbon Sidecar

Kickstart your evening with a Bourbon Sidecar, a smooth twist on the classic cocktail that blends bourbon’s warmth with citrusy brightness.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (use a high-quality brand for best flavor)
• 1 oz Cointreau (or triple sec for a lighter version)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp simple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• Ice cubes (for shaking)
• Lemon twist or sugar rim (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Chill a coupe glass by filling it with ice water. Set aside.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz bourbon, 1 oz Cointreau, and 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice.
3. Add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker. Secure the lid tightly.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
5. Discard the ice water from the coupe glass. Strain the cocktail into the glass.
6. If desired, garnish with a lemon twist or serve with a sugar rim for extra sweetness.

Combining bourbon’s rich depth with the crispness of lemon and orange liqueur, this Bourbon Sidecar offers a balanced sip. Serve it alongside dark chocolate or as a refined pre-dinner drink to impress guests.

Bourbon Sazerac

Dive into the bold flavors of a Bourbon Sazerac, a twist on the classic cocktail that’s perfect for sipping.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (use a high-quality brand for best flavor)
• 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp granulated sugar)
• 3 dashes Peychaud’s bitters (adjust to taste)
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• 1 lemon peel (for garnish)
• Ice cubes (for chilling)

Instructions

1. Place the sugar cube in a chilled old-fashioned glass. Wet it with the Peychaud’s and Angostura bitters.
2. Muddle the sugar and bitters together until the sugar is mostly dissolved. Tip: A few drops of water can help dissolve the sugar.
3. Add a large ice cube to the glass. Pour the bourbon over the ice. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill the mixture.
4. Express the lemon peel over the drink by twisting it to release the oils, then rub the peel around the rim of the glass. Drop it into the drink. Tip: Use a vegetable peeler for a wide, attractive lemon twist.
5. Let the drink sit for a minute to meld the flavors. Serve immediately. Tip: For an extra chill, place the glass in the freezer for 5 minutes before making the drink.

Your Bourbon Sazerac offers a smooth, slightly sweet sip with a citrusy aroma. Try serving it with a side of dark chocolate to complement the bourbon’s richness.

Bourbon Collins

Rarely does a cocktail strike the perfect balance between bold and refreshing, but the Bourbon Collins does just that. Here’s how to make it at home.

Ingredients

– 2 oz bourbon (use a high-quality brand for best flavor)
– 1 oz fresh lemon juice (strained for smoothness)
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
– 4 oz club soda (chilled)
– Ice cubes (for serving)
– Lemon wheel (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Fill a Collins glass with ice cubes to chill it.
2. In a shaker, combine 2 oz bourbon, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz simple syrup.
3. Fill the shaker with ice, then shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill the mixture.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared Collins glass.
5. Top with 4 oz chilled club soda, gently stirring to combine.
6. Garnish with a lemon wheel on the rim of the glass.
7. Serve immediately with a straw.
Mixing this Bourbon Collins yields a drink that’s both spirited and smooth, with a fizzy lift from the club soda. Try it with a sprig of mint for an aromatic twist.

Bourbon Ginger Ale

Crafting a Bourbon Ginger Ale is straightforward and rewarding. This cocktail blends the warmth of bourbon with the spicy kick of ginger ale, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

– 2 oz bourbon (use your favorite brand)
– 4 oz ginger ale (chilled for best results)
– 1 lime wedge (for garnish, optional)
– Ice cubes (enough to fill the glass)

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass to the top with ice cubes. This ensures your drink stays cold without diluting too quickly.
2. Pour 2 oz of bourbon over the ice. Tip: Swirl the bourbon in the glass to slightly chill it before adding the ginger ale.
3. Top with 4 oz of chilled ginger ale. Stir gently to combine, preserving the bubbles.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim of the glass. Tip: Squeeze the lime into the drink for an extra zesty flavor.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy. Tip: For a stronger ginger flavor, use a ginger beer instead of ginger ale.
The Bourbon Ginger Ale offers a smooth, effervescent sip with a balanced sweetness and spice. Try serving it with a cinnamon stick stirrer for an aromatic twist.

Bourbon Lemonade

Just when you thought lemonade couldn’t get any better, bourbon steps in to elevate this summer staple. Perfect for backyard BBQs or lazy afternoons, this Bourbon Lemonade is refreshing with a kick.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 6 lemons, strain for smoothness)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 4 cups cold water (filtered for best taste)
• 1 cup bourbon (choose a smooth, mid-range brand)
• Ice cubes (for serving)
• Lemon slices and mint sprigs (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice and sugar. Stir until sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add cold water to the pitcher. Stir well to mix.
3. Pour in bourbon. Stir gently to combine without losing the alcohol’s potency.
4. Fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour Bourbon Lemonade over ice.
5. Garnish with lemon slices and mint sprigs if desired. Serve immediately.

The Bourbon Lemonade strikes a balance between tart and sweet, with the bourbon adding a warm depth. Serve it in mason jars for a rustic touch or add a splash of soda water for extra fizz.

Bourbon Sweet Tea

Mix bourbon and sweet tea for a refreshing twist on classic Southern flavors. Perfect for summer gatherings or a relaxing evening.

Ingredients

• 4 cups water (filtered for best taste)
• 4 black tea bags (or 2 family-sized)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup bourbon (choose a smooth, mid-range brand)
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
• Ice cubes (as needed)

Instructions

1. Boil 4 cups of water in a medium saucepan over high heat.
2. Remove from heat and add 4 black tea bags. Steep for 5 minutes for strong flavor.
3. Discard tea bags and stir in 1/2 cup granulated sugar until fully dissolved. Cool to room temperature.
4. Transfer sweet tea to a pitcher and refrigerate until chilled, about 1 hour.
5. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour 1 cup bourbon evenly among them.
6. Top each glass with chilled sweet tea, leaving room for garnish.
7. Garnish with a slice of lemon on the rim of each glass.

Optimal served ice-cold, this Bourbon Sweet Tea balances sweetness with a robust bourbon kick. Try adding mint leaves for a fresh twist or serve with a side of peach cobbler for a true Southern experience.

Bourbon Apple Cider

Unwind with a warm, spiced Bourbon Apple Cider that’s perfect for chilly evenings. This recipe blends sweet apple cider with the rich depth of bourbon for a comforting drink.

Ingredients

– 4 cups apple cider (fresh or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup bourbon (adjust to preference)
– 2 cinnamon sticks (or 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon)
– 1 orange, sliced (for garnish, optional)
– 1 tbsp maple syrup (or honey, adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. Pour the apple cider into a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the cinnamon sticks to the saucepan. Heat until the cider is warm but not boiling, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the bourbon and maple syrup. Continue to heat for another 2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t boil to preserve the alcohol content.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Discard the cinnamon sticks.
5. Ladle the bourbon apple cider into mugs. Garnish with orange slices if desired.
Tip: For a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon and add a splash of vanilla extract.
Tip: To enhance the flavor, let the cider simmer with the cinnamon sticks for an extra 5 minutes before adding the bourbon.
Tip: Serve with a cinnamon stick stirrer for added aroma and presentation.
Expect a smooth, warming drink with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Try serving it with a side of shortbread cookies for a delightful contrast.

Bourbon Hot Toddy

Out with the cold and in with the warm, this Bourbon Hot Toddy is your go-to remedy for chilly evenings. Simple, soothing, and spirited, it’s a classic with a kick.

Ingredients

• 1 cup water (filtered for best taste)
• 2 tbsp honey (adjust to sweetness preference)
• 1 oz bourbon (or whiskey of choice)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish and subtle spice)
• 1 slice lemon (thin, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat water in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reaches 200°F, about 3-4 minutes. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
2. Pour hot water into a mug. Stir in honey until fully dissolved. Tip: Warm honey mixes easier.
3. Add bourbon and lemon juice to the mug. Stir gently to combine. Tip: Adjust bourbon to taste for a stronger or milder drink.
4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and lemon slice. Tip: Lightly muddle the lemon slice to release more flavor.

Perfectly balanced, this toddy offers a smooth blend of sweet, citrus, and spice. Serve it in a clear mug to showcase the elegant garnish, or enjoy it fireside for ultimate coziness.

Bourbon Eggnog

Bourbon eggnog brings a spirited twist to the classic holiday drink. Perfect for chilly evenings, it’s rich, creamy, and boldly flavored.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk (for creaminess)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter texture)
• 4 large eggs (room temperature blends better)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to sweetness preference)
• 1/4 cup bourbon (choose a quality brand for depth)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (pure extract recommended)
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (freshly grated for best flavor)
• Pinch of salt (enhances all flavors)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium until just simmering, about 5 minutes. Do not boil.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until light and frothy, about 2 minutes. Tip: Ensure eggs are at room temperature to avoid curdling.
3. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes. Tip: Use a candy thermometer; it should reach 160°F for safety.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in bourbon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt. Tip: Adjust bourbon to taste if preferred.
6. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher to ensure smoothness.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. The longer it chills, the flavors meld better.

Your bourbon eggnog will be luxuriously smooth with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Serve it chilled with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top for an elegant touch.

Bourbon Chocolate Martini

Fancy a decadent drink that combines the warmth of bourbon with the richness of chocolate? This Bourbon Chocolate Martini is your go-to for a luxurious sip.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (use a high-quality brand for best flavor)
• 1 oz chocolate liqueur (adjust to taste)
• 1 oz heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (pure extract recommended)
• Ice cubes (for chilling)
• Chocolate shavings (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to chill the ingredients properly.
2. Pour 2 oz of bourbon into the shaker for a robust base flavor.
3. Add 1 oz of chocolate liqueur to introduce a sweet, chocolatey depth.
4. Measure 1 oz of heavy cream and add it to the mix for a smooth, creamy texture.
5. Include 1 tsp of vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor profile with a hint of warmth.
6. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to ensure the drink is well-mixed and chilled.
7. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass to serve it at the perfect temperature.
8. Garnish with chocolate shavings on top for an elegant finish and extra chocolate flavor.

Enjoy the velvety texture and the perfect balance of bourbon warmth with chocolate sweetness. Serve it as a dessert cocktail or a sophisticated nightcap.

Bourbon Cherry Smash

Unwind with a Bourbon Cherry Smash, a refreshing cocktail that combines the warmth of bourbon with the tartness of cherries. Perfect for summer evenings, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (use your favorite brand)
• 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted (frozen work in a pinch)
• 1 tbsp simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 lime, juiced (about 1 tbsp)
• 4 oz club soda (chilled)
• Ice cubes (for serving)
• Mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the cherries and lime juice until the cherries are broken down.
2. Add the bourbon and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice, leaving room for the club soda.
4. Top with club soda and gently stir to combine.
5. Garnish with mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

Fizz and flavor come together in this Bourbon Cherry Smash, with the cherries adding a juicy texture. Try serving it with a cherry on the rim for an extra touch of elegance.

Bourbon Peach Punch

Nothing beats a refreshing Bourbon Peach Punch on a warm summer day. This cocktail combines sweet peaches with smooth bourbon for a drink that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 cups peach nectar (chilled for best results)
• 1 cup bourbon (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (or adjust to sweetness preference)
• 2 cups sparkling water (chilled)
• Ice cubes (for serving)
• Peach slices and mint leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large pitcher, combine the peach nectar, bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir well to mix.
2. Add the sparkling water to the pitcher and gently stir to combine. Tip: Pour slowly to preserve the bubbles.
3. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the punch over the ice. Tip: Use large ice cubes to prevent quick dilution.
4. Garnish each glass with peach slices and mint leaves before serving. Tip: Slap the mint leaves between your hands before adding to release their aroma.

Delightfully fizzy with a perfect balance of sweet and tart, this punch is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it in mason jars for a rustic touch or in elegant glasses for a more refined presentation.

Conclusion

Just like that, we’ve stirred through 18 classic bourbon cocktails that promise to spice up your home bar repertoire. Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado or just starting to explore, these recipes are your ticket to delicious discoveries. Don’t forget to shake up your favorites, leave us a comment with your top pick, and share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Cheers to your next cocktail adventure!

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