The Cranberry Bourbon Smash is a festive drink that’s both sweet and tangy! Made with fresh cranberries, bourbon, and a splash of soda, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings!
Whenever I make this drink, the festive colors and fruity taste make me feel like a party planner pro—cheers to easy and tasty cocktails!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon: Bourbon gives this drink its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using rye whiskey or even a spiced rum for a twist.
Cranberry Juice: Fresh cranberry juice is best for this cocktail, but if that’s not available, go for 100% juice without added sugars. You can also substitute with pomegranate juice for a different flavor.
Simple Syrup: You can easily make your own simple syrup by dissolving equal parts sugar and water. For a healthier option, try honey or agave syrup, adjusting the amount to your taste.
Club Soda: To keep it fizzy and light, use club soda or sparkling water. If you want extra flavor, try ginger ale or a flavored soda.
How Do You Muddle Cranberries Properly?
Muddling is an essential technique in cocktails to release flavors from fresh ingredients. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a sturdy muddler—you don’t need anything fancy, just a strong stick.
- Place the cranberries in the shaker and gently press down on them, twisting slightly. You want to break them up but not turn them into juice.
- Muddle for just a few seconds until you see some juice released into the shaker.
This step enhances the drink’s flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy your cocktail making!
Cranberry Bourbon Smash Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz cranberry juice (preferably fresh or 100% juice)
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Handful of fresh cranberries (for muddling and garnish)
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- Club soda or sparkling water (to top off)
- Fresh mint sprig (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick, easy, and the perfect drink for get-togethers or a cozy night in.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Cranberries:
Grab your cocktail shaker and add a small handful of fresh cranberries. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently mash the cranberries to release their flavor. Don’t mash them too hard; just enough to break their skins and let out some juice!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the bourbon, cranberry juice, simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice into the shaker with the muddled cranberries. This combination of flavors is what makes this drink special!
3. Shake It Up:
Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake it all vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want the mixture to get nice and cold, so give it your best shake!
4. Strain and Serve:
Next, strain the cocktail mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. This keeps your drink chilled without any bits of cranberry floating around.
5. Top Off and Garnish:
Finish by topping it off with a splash of club soda or sparkling water. This adds a refreshing fizz! For a beautiful touch, garnish with a few whole cranberries and a sprig of fresh mint.
6. Enjoy!
Serve immediately to enjoy this lovely drink while it’s cold. Sip back, relax, and enjoy the delicious flavors of your Cranberry Bourbon Smash!
Can I Use a Different Spirit Instead of Bourbon?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute bourbon with rye whiskey for a spicier kick or use spiced rum for a sweeter twist. Just remember that it will change the overall taste of the cocktail.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of This Cocktail?
If you find the drink too sweet, reduce the amount of simple syrup or use less cranberry juice. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a bit more lemon juice to enhance the tartness.
Can I Make This Cocktail in Advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the bourbon and juice mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add ice and top with club soda right before serving for the best experience.
How Should I Store Leftover Ingredients?
Store any leftover fresh cranberries and lemon juice in the fridge. Fresh cranberries can last for up to a month, while lemon juice is best used within a week. Keep simple syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a month.
