Bourbon Smash
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Summer is the season for refreshing cocktails, and if you’re a bourbon lover, then a bourbon smash cocktail is just what you need to beat the heat. With its abundance of fresh ingredients and delicious flavors, this cocktail is the ultimate thirst quencher.
You don’t need to be a mixologist to make the perfect bourbon smash cocktail. I find making cocktails to be so much fun! It’s so interesting to experiment with ingredients and flavors in order to come up with a drink that suits you perfectly.
You might already know how much I love a bourbon-based cocktail recipe. While I do have a couple of summer-inspired recipes (frozen old-fashioned slush, sweet tea mint juleps, and Kentucky mule), I wanted to try something a bit different and really refreshing which led me to this recipe. (And stay tuned as I’ll be sharing a blackberry version soon!)
If you like bourbon or just want an extremely refreshing sip, I think you’re going to love this recipe!
Why You’ll Enjoy This Recipe
- Simple and limited ingredients. You only need five ingredients to whip up this cocktail.
- Easy to make. There’s nothing fancy about making this recipe. All you need is a muddler and you’re good to go. (Don’t have a muddler? Use the back of a wooden spoon.)
- Bright and refreshing. Made with fresh lemons and fresh mint, this is the perfect cocktail for warm weather sipping.
Ingredients
Ready to try a bourbon smash? Let’s gather the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- bourbon – I like Four Roses Single Barrel. (I share more info on this below.)
- fresh mint
- lemons
- simple syrup – Make your own with my easy simple syrup recipe.
- club soda
I also love how these pink ball cocktail picks look in this cocktail. So sweet!
How To Make
As I mentioned, making a bourbon smash is easy! I’ll walk you through the steps below. I’ve also provided a full ingredient list and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.
- Begin by adding the simple syrup, mint leaves, and lemon wedges into a cocktail shaker.
- Muddle them until the lemons are slightly broken down and the mint is crushed.
- Add the bourbon and fill the shaker with ice; using a long cocktail spoon, stir vigorously until very cold.
- Fill a rocks glass with ice and use a fine strainer to strain the drink into the glass.
- Add a splash of club soda if desired.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge and a sprig of fresh mint.
That’s it’s! Serve, cheers, and enjoy!
Choosing the Right Bourbon
When it comes to making a bourbon smash, the choice of bourbon is important. You want a bourbon that will complement the other flavors in the cocktail without overpowering them. A good bourbon for a smash should have a balance of sweetness and spice, with a smooth finish.
Ultimately, the best bourbon for your smash is the one that you enjoy the most. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different bourbons and find the one that suits your taste preferences. If you’re looking for a place to start, my favorite is Four Roses Single Barrel. This is more of a premium bourbon; if you’re looking for something more affordable, try Bulliet.
Recipe Variations
A classic bourbon smash is wonderfully delicious. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, there are many ways to switch things up and add some variety to this recipe.
- Add in additional fruits like blackberries, pineapple, mango, etc. (Be sure to check out my blackberry bourbon smash recipe.)
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil.
- Swap out the bourbon for other types of hard liquor, such as rye or gin.
- Opt for different sweetening agents, such as honey or maple syrup to add a touch of sweetness to your cocktail.
- Make it spicy with some fresh jalapeño slices.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore new variations, the key to a delicious bourbon smash is to use high-quality ingredients. Feel free to adjust the ratios to suit your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of whiskey instead of bourbon?
Technically, yes. However, using bourbon is essential to achieving the traditional flavor profile of a bourbon smash. If you do choose to experiment with other whiskeys or liquors (which I totally encourage), keep in mind that they may alter the taste and overall experience of the cocktail.
Can I make a pitcher of bourbon smash ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Simply increase the quantity of the ingredients proportionally and mix everything together in a large pitcher or jug. However, I recommend waiting to add the ice until right before serving to prevent dilution.
Can I use a cocktail shaker instead of a muddler to make a bourbon smash?
A cocktail shaker can work, but it may not be as effective as a muddler at breaking down the fruit and releasing its juice. Additionally, a shaker may create a thinner texture than a muddled cocktail.
More Bourbon Cocktails You Will Love
- Cider and Maple Old-Fashioned
- Sweet Tea Mint Juleps
- Maple and Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
- Pumpkin Old-Fashioned
- Frozen Old Fashioned Slush
I hope you’ll try stirring up a bourbon smash this summer (or even right now; I don’t judge). I think you’re going to love it! If you do, please leave a comment and a 5-star rating below.
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Bourbon Smash
Ingredients
- .75 ounces simple syrup
- 6 mint leaves
- 2 lemon wedges
- 2 ounces bourbon
- club soda
- lemon wedge and mint sprig to garnish
Instructions
- Begin by adding the simple syrup, mint leaves, and lemon wedges into a cocktail shaker.
- Muddle them until the lemons are slightly broken down and the mint is crushed.
- Add the bourbon and fill the shaker with ice; using a long cocktail spoon, stir vigorously until very cold.
- Fill a rocks glass with ice and use a fine strainer to strain the drink into the glass.
- Add a splash of club soda if desired.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge and a sprig of fresh mint.
I’m a big fan of an old fashioned so I wasn’t sure how I was going to like this… But, I trusted you and I’m so glad I did because it was delicious. I even made one with blueberries and loved that too. A bourbon smash will be my new summer cocktail. THANK YOU!