The Cranberry Bourbon Smash is a fun and fruity drink that brings a sweet and zesty twist to your enjoyment. With tart cranberries and smooth bourbon, it’s perfect for any gathering!
This drink is super easy to make; just mash up some cranberries, add bourbon, a touch of sweetness, and top it off with soda. It’s a classic, but I love making it with friends when the holidays roll around! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon: A good quality bourbon is essential as it adds depth and flavor. If bourbon isn’t your thing, you can try rye whiskey for a spicier kick.
Cranberry Juice: Fresh cranberry juice is fantastic, but if you can’t find it, store-bought juice works too. Just watch out for added sugars. For a twist, consider using pomegranate juice.
Simple Syrup: This is easy to make at home by dissolving equal parts sugar and water. If you’re looking for a healthier option, honey or agave syrup can be a nice substitute.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best for brightness. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work, but the taste may differ slightly.
How Do You Muddle Fruit Perfectly?
Muddling is a crucial step to release the flavors from your fresh ingredients. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to press down gently on the cranberries.
- Avoid turning them into mush; you just want to break them open to release their juice.
- Make sure not to over-muddle, as bitterness can come from the seeds.
With these tips and tricks, your Cranberry Bourbon Smash will be bursting with flavors and ready to impress! Enjoy!
How to Make a Cranberry Bourbon Smash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz fresh cranberry juice (or muddled fresh cranberries)
- 0.5 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish and muddling)
- Mint sprig (for garnish)
- Crushed ice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing drink takes about 5-10 minutes to prepare. With some quick muddling and shaking, you’ll have a delicious cocktail ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Cranberries:
In a cocktail shaker or mixing glass, place a small handful of fresh cranberries. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press them down to release their juice. This step helps bring out the tart and fruity flavor!
2. Add the Liquids:
Next, pour in the 2 oz of bourbon, 1 oz of fresh cranberry juice (if you’re not using muddled cranberries), 0.5 oz of simple syrup, and 0.5 oz of fresh lemon juice. These ingredients will create a delightful balance of sweet and tart.
3. Shake It Up:
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want to get it nice and chilled, so go ahead and shake like you mean it!
4. Prepare the Glass:
Take a rocks glass and fill it with crushed ice. This will keep your drink nice and cold.
5. Strain the Cocktail:
Now, strain the mixture from the shaker into the prepared glass over the crushed ice. Watch as the beautiful red color pours out!
6. Garnish:
To make your drink look extra special, garnish it with a few fresh cranberries and a sprig of mint on top. This adds a lovely aroma and flair.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Cranberry Bourbon Smash is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it immediately to impress your friends and sip away!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to let them thaw first. Once thawed, you can muddle them as you would with fresh ones. They might be a bit softer, but they will still add great flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Simple Syrup?
No worries! You can easily make simple syrup by combining equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan and heating until the sugar dissolves. Alternatively, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Can I Make a Non-Alcoholic Version?
Absolutely! Simply replace the bourbon with a mix of apple cider and sparkling water or ginger ale for a refreshing mocktail. You can adjust the sweetness to your taste with more or less simple syrup!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover mixed drink (without ice), store it in an airtight container in the fridge and consume it within 24 hours for the best flavor. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, so try to prepare only what you plan to drink!
