This Cranberry Bourbon Smash is a fun and festive drink that’s perfect for any gathering! It combines tart cranberries, rich bourbon, and a hint of fresh mint for a refreshing twist.
It’s so easy to mix up a batch, and your friends will love the cheerful color! I always say it’s the perfect way to add some sparkle to your evening. 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon: The star of this drink! If you’re not a fan of bourbon, you can swap it for rye whiskey for a spicier kick. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, use ginger beer for a zesty flavor without the alcohol.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the drink. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but it may be a bit less vibrant.
Cranberry Syrup: You can make your own by simmering sugar and fresh cranberries in water or opt for store-bought cranberry juice concentrate. This adds a rich cranberry flavor, but be mindful of sweetness! Adjust according to taste.
Fresh Mint: Mint adds a lovely freshness. If you can’t find mint, you can use basil for a unique twist, or simply skip it altogether if you prefer.
How Do I Muddle Ingredients Properly for My Cocktail?
Muddling is key to releasing the flavors in your drink. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press the mint and cranberries in the shaker.
- Be delicate! You want to release the oils and flavors without shredding the mint or crushing the cranberries into bits. 2-3 gentle presses should do!
- Once muddled, follow up with the other ingredients to maintain the mint’s fresh flavor.
Cranberry Bourbon Smash Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz cranberry syrup (or cranberry juice concentrate)
- Fresh cranberries (about a handful, plus extra for garnish)
- 6-8 fresh mint leaves (plus a sprig for garnish)
- 1 tsp simple syrup (optional, adjust sweetness to taste)
- Crushed ice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cocktail recipe is quick to prepare! You’ll need about 5 minutes to mix everything together, and then it’s ready to serve. It’s perfect for a gathering or a cozy evening at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Ingredients:
Begin by placing the fresh cranberries and mint leaves into a cocktail shaker. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently press down to release the flavors. Be careful not to crush them too much—just a few gentle presses will do!
2. Add the Liquids:
Next, pour in the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, cranberry syrup, and optional simple syrup if you like your drink a bit sweeter. Give it a little stir to combine the ingredients before shaking.
3. Shake It Up:
Now it’s time to shake things up! Fill the shaker with ice and put the lid on. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the mixture is nice and chilled.
4. Prepare the Glass:
Take a rocks glass and fill it with crushed ice. This will keep your drink cool and refreshing. Then, use a strainer to pour the cocktail mixture over the ice in the glass.
5. Garnish and Serve:
For a lovely finish, add a few whole cranberries on top and a sprig of fresh mint as a garnish. It looks beautiful and adds a lovely aroma. Serve immediately and enjoy the bright, refreshing flavors of this festive cocktail!
Can I Use a Different Type of Whiskey?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of bourbon, you can substitute it with rye whiskey for a spicier flavor, or even use a smooth vodka for a lighter drink. Just keep in mind that the overall taste will change slightly!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Cranberries?
No worries! You can use cranberry juice instead; just adjust the sweetness according to your preference. If using juice, start with 3 oz and reduce the simple syrup as needed to balance the flavors.
How Can I Prepare This Cocktail in Advance?
You can make the cranberry syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just mix up the cocktail ingredients (except for the ice) and keep them in the shaker until you’re ready to serve. Shake with ice just before serving for that fresh taste!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cocktail Mix?
It’s best to drink this cocktail fresh for the best flavor! However, if you have leftover mix, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good shake before serving, and add fresh ice. Don’t add the mint garnish until you’re ready to serve, as it can wilt!
