This warm and cozy drink brings together the sweet taste of maple syrup, spicy cinnamon, and a little whiskey magic. It’s perfect for relaxing after a long day!
Whenever I sip this tasty treat, I feel like I’m wrapped in a soft blanket. Just imagine yourself by the fire with this in hand—sounds nice, right? 😊
It’s super easy to whip up! Just mix everything together, pour it over ice, and enjoy. Perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself after a busy week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whiskey: Bourbon is my go-to for this drink as it has a nice sweetness that pairs well with maple. If you prefer something lighter, try rye whiskey for a spicier kick, or even an Irish whiskey for a smoother profile.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Always use fresh lemon juice for the best taste. If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice will work, but it can lack the freshness of the real thing. You could also substitute with lime juice for a slightly different flavor.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives the best flavor, but if you’re vegan or looking for a different option, try agave syrup. Honey is another substitute, but it will add its own sweetness and flavor.
Ground Cinnamon: I love using ground cinnamon for a quick mix, but a cinnamon stick also works as a garnish that adds a great aroma while sipping. If you’re out, you could use pumpkin pie spice for a fun twist!
What’s the Best Way to Shake a Cocktail?
Shaking a cocktail can seem tricky, but it’s easy once you know the basics! Here’s how to get that perfect mix:
- Fill your shaker with ice first; this cools your ingredients quickly.
- Add your ingredients on top of the ice. Securely close the shaker.
- Shake the cocktail vigorously for about 15 seconds. Think of it as a mini workout—put some energy into it!
- Strain into your glass. Make sure to use a fine mesh if you want to avoid pulp or ice bits.
That’s it! Mastering the shake will make your cocktails taste even better. Enjoy your Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour!
How to Make a Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz whiskey (bourbon works well)
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (or 1 small cinnamon stick for garnish)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon twist or slice, for garnish
- Cinnamon stick, for garnish (optional)
Estimated Time:
Making this delightful cocktail will take about 5 minutes. It’s a quick mix, and then you can enjoy it right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Your Ingredients:
Grab your cocktail shaker and pour in the whiskey, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and ground cinnamon. This is where all the tasty flavors come together!
2. Add Ice:
Next, fill your shaker with ice cubes. You want to cover the liquid to really chill it down and mix the ingredients well.
3. Shake, Shake, Shake!
Secure the shaker lid and give it a vigorous shake for about 15 seconds. This step is crucial as it blends everything nicely and gets it super cold!
4. Strain Into Your Glass:
Now, take a rocks glass and fill it with fresh ice. Strain the mixed cocktail into the glass, letting it pour gently over the ice.
5. Garnish for Goodness:
To make your drink look nice and fancy, garnish it with a lemon twist or slice on the rim. If you like, add a cinnamon stick for a lovely aroma while you sip!
6. Serve & Savor:
Enjoy your Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour right away! It’s the perfect mix of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors that will warm you up on a chilly evening.
This cocktail is not only delicious but also beautifully aromatic—a wonderful treat to enjoy with friends or on your own. Cheers! 🍹
Can I Use a Different Sweetener Instead of Maple Syrup?
Absolutely! While maple syrup adds a unique flavor, you can use honey or agave syrup as alternatives. Just keep in mind that honey will add its own distinct taste, so it might alter the overall flavor profile a bit.
Can I Make This Cocktail Without Alcohol?
Yes! To make a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the whiskey with sparkling water or ginger ale for some fizz. You can enhance the flavor with extra lemon juice and a splash of maple syrup to keep it tasty!
How to Store Leftover Cocktail Mixture?
Since this cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, I recommend making it just before serving. However, if you have leftover mixture (without ice), store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Just remember to shake it again before serving!
What’s the Best Type of Whiskey to Use?
Bourbon is a fantastic choice because of its sweetness that pairs well with maple syrup and citrus. However, you can also choose rye whiskey for a spicier kick or even Irish whiskey for a smoother taste. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite!