As the sun shines bright and the temperatures rise, there’s no better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing bourbon cocktail. The rich, smooth flavor of bourbon pairs perfectly with sweet and tangy ingredients, making it a staple in many summer cocktails. From classic old fashioneds to fruity fizzes, we’ve rounded up 20 of the most delicious bourbon recipes perfect for sipping by the pool or enjoying on a warm evening.
Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just looking to spice up your cocktail game, these recipes are sure to please. With flavors ranging from minty fresh to spicy bold, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So go ahead, grab a bottle of your favorite bourbon, and get ready to shake (not stir) things up with these 20 refreshing bourbon cocktail recipes perfect for summer.
Classic Bourbon Old Fashioned
A timeless cocktail that exudes sophistication and warmth, the Classic Bourbon Old Fashioned is a must-have for any whiskey lover.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 sugar cube (about 1/4 teaspoon)
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, place the sugar cube and add just enough water to saturate the sugar.
2. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to crush the sugar until it dissolves.
3. Add the bourbon whiskey and bitters to the mixing glass.
4. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with one large ice cube.
6. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe.
Mint Julep with a Bourbon Twist
Elevate the traditional mint julep by adding a rich and smooth bourbon twist. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm weather and special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 teaspoons of fresh mint leaves
– 1 1/2 ounces of bourbon whiskey (such as Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve)
– 3/4 ounce of simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Crushed ice
– Whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed ice for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large metal cup or julep cup, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey and simple syrup to the cup. Stir until well combined.
3. Fill the cup with crushed ice.
4. Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Taste and adjust the sweetness or strength of the bourbon as desired.
Cooking Time: None
Bourbon Peach Smash
Elevate your summer gatherings with this refreshing twist on a classic cocktail. Bourbon Peach Smash combines the sweetness of peaches, the warmth of bourbon, and the tanginess of mint for a drink that’s perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup crushed ice
– Handful of mint leaves, for garnish
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the diced peaches with the bourbon whiskey.
2. Add the lime juice and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with crushed ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a sprig of mint and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None
Spiced Bourbon Apple Cider
Warm up with a glass of Spiced Bourbon Apple Cider, perfect for cozying up on a crisp fall evening. This rich and aromatic drink combines the sweetness of apple cider with the warmth of bourbon and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon apple cider
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, bourbon, cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the spices are fragrant and the liquid is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the cider into a pitcher or individual cups. Add honey or sugar to taste, if desired.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional cinnamon sticks or apple slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Enjoy your Spiced Bourbon Apple Cider!
Bourbon Maple Sour
A twist on the classic whiskey sour, this Bourbon Maple Sour combines the richness of bourbon with the sweetness of maple syrup for a unique and delicious cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Dash of Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Cherry Bourbon Fizz
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Cherry Bourbon Fizz, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
– 4 oz lemon-lime soda
– 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted
– Ice cubes
– Lemon twist or cherry garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
2. Add bourbon whiskey and cherry liqueur to the shaker.
3. Shake gently for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
5. Top with lemon-lime soda.
6. Garnish with fresh cherries and a lemon twist, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just minutes.
Enjoy your delicious Cherry Bourbon Fizz!
Bourbon Ginger Highball
Elevate your highball game with this delightful combination of bourbon, ginger beer, and lime. Perfect for warm evenings or as a revitalizing pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 oz Bourbon
• 4 oz Ginger Beer
• Juice of 1 Lime (about 1 tsp)
• Slice of Lime for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the bourbon and ginger beer.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish with a slice of lime.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready in seconds.
Enjoy your Bourbon Ginger Highball!
Bourbon Lemonade with Basil
Elevate your summer gatherings with this unique and flavorful twist on classic lemonade. The addition of bourbon, basil, and a touch of sweetness creates a refreshing drink perfect for hot days.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice and simple syrup. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey and stir to combine.
3. Add water and stir gently to combine.
4. Add chopped basil leaves and muddle (gently press) them with a spoon or muddler to release their oils and flavor.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve over ice cubes, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Smoky Bourbon Manhattan
This recipe elevates the classic Manhattan cocktail by adding a smoky twist with Lapsang souchong tea-infused bourbon and a dash of Islay Scotch. The result is a complex, sophisticated drink that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Smoked Bourbon (Lapsang souchong tea-infused)
– 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
– Cherry garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the Smoked Bourbon, Sweet Vermouth, and Angostura Bitters.
3. Stir for approximately 30-45 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None
Bourbon Blackberry Smash
This refreshing cocktail combines the sweetness of blackberries with the richness of bourbon, perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be sipping on this delightful drink in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Bourbon whiskey
– 1 cup fresh blackberries
– 1/2 cup mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
– Ice
– Lemon twist or mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the blackberries and mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their flavors.
2. Add bourbon whiskey and honey syrup; fill the shaker with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or mint sprig, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Bourbon Sweet Tea Cocktail
This refreshing cocktail combines the smoothness of bourbon with the sweetness of sweet tea, perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a taste of summer. This easy-to-make drink is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon
– 4 ounces sweet tea-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Ice cubes
– Lemon slice or mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
2. Add the bourbon, sweet tea-infused simple syrup, and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
5. Garnish with a lemon slice or mint sprig.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Bourbon Honey Hot Toddy
Warm up with a soothing drink that combines the smoothness of bourbon with the sweetness of honey. This Bourbon Honey Hot Toddy is perfect for a chilly evening or whenever you need a comforting pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 lemon, juiced
– 1 cup hot water
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
– Whipped cream and additional honey for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mug, combine bourbon, honey, and lemon juice.
2. Add hot water to the mixture and stir until the honey dissolves.
3. If desired, add a cinnamon stick to the drink for an extra warm touch.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or bourbon level as needed.
5. Serve immediately, topped with whipped cream and additional honey if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (to heat water)
Bourbon Rosemary Collins
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic Tom Collins, featuring bourbon and rosemary. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you need a drink that’s both sophisticated and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– Club soda
– Ice
– Lemon wheel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary to the shaker and muddle gently to release the herbal flavors.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lemon wheel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve in just a few minutes.
Bourbon Pineapple Punch
Elevate your next gathering with this refreshing Bourbon Pineapple Punch, perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights by the fire.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup bourbon whiskey (your choice of brand and type)
– 1 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Slices of fresh pineapple, for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, bourbon whiskey, and simple syrup. Stir until well combined.
2. Add lemon-lime soda to the pitcher and stir gently.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, fill glasses with ice and pour the Bourbon Pineapple Punch over the ice.
5. Garnish each glass with a slice of fresh pineapple.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to serve as soon as you combine the ingredients.
Bourbon Spiced Eggnog
Warm Up with a Glass of Bourbon Spiced Eggnog
This creamy eggnog recipe gets a rich boost from the addition of bourbon and warm spices, perfect for cold winter nights. A hint of sweetness and a touch of nutmeg add depth to this festive drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
– Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly.
3. Strain the eggnog into a clean container. Stir in bourbon whiskey and spices.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. Serve chilled, garnished with freshly grated nutmeg.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Bourbon Mint Julep Slushie
Experience the refreshing twist on a classic cocktail with this Bourbon Mint Julep Slushie recipe. Perfect for hot summer days, this slushie combines the smoothness of bourbon with the cooling effects of mint and crushed ice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup crushed ice
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine crushed ice, bourbon, simple syrup, and fresh mint leaves. Blend until smooth.
2. Add heavy cream and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or bourbon level as needed.
4. Pour into glasses filled with ice and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (blending time)
Enjoy your Bourbon Mint Julep Slushie, a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail!
Bourbon Cranberry Sparkler
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this refreshing twist on the classic sparkling cocktail. Bourbon Cranberry Sparkler combines the warmth of bourbon with the tartness of cranberries and a hint of sweetness, perfect for toasting the season.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 cup cranberry juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3 oz sparkling wine (such as Prosecco or champagne)
– Lime wheel and fresh cranberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake gently for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with sparkling wine.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh cranberries.
Cooking Time: None
Bourbon Vanilla Cream Soda
Elevate your soda game with this rich and creamy concoction, featuring the smooth notes of bourbon and sweet vanilla flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups club soda
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the club soda and heavy cream.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey, vanilla extract, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve the Bourbon Vanilla Cream Soda over ice and garnish with a sprig of mint or a dash of nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking time, as it’s a simple mixture of ingredients.
Bourbon Grapefruit Paloma
This Bourbon Grapefruit Paloma is a unique and tantalizing spin on the traditional Paloma cocktail, combining the smoothness of bourbon with the tanginess of grapefruit. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a revitalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– 1/2 oz agave syrup
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Ice
– Lime wheel and sprig of rosemary or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add bourbon, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain into the prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and sprig of rosemary or thyme.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, not a dish.
Bourbon Maple Old Fashioned
Experience the perfect blend of bourbon’s rich flavor and maple syrup’s subtle sweetness with this Bourbon Maple Old Fashioned recipe. This twist on the classic cocktail is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 1/2 oz Angostura bitters
– 1/2 oz club soda
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, not a cooking recipe.
Enjoy your Bourbon Maple Old Fashioned!
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing bourbon cocktail recipes! From classic twists on old favorites to fruity and bubbly concoctions, there’s something for every taste. Try a Bourbon Peach Smash or Spiced Bourbon Apple Cider for a warm-weather twist on fall flavors. Or go bold with a Bourbon Blackberry Smash or Cherry Bourbon Fizz. With 20 unique recipes to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect drink to enjoy all summer long.
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