Summer is here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to indulge in refreshing cocktails that quench your thirst on a hot day. And what better way to beat the heat than with a glass of bourbon? Yes, you read that right – bourbon! The rich, smooth flavor of this classic whiskey can be transformed into a variety of delicious and cooling cocktails that are sure to become your new go-to drinks for the season.
From classic old fashioneds to fruity twists and sours, we’ve rounded up 20 refreshing bourbon cocktail recipes that are perfect for sipping on a patio or poolside. Whether you’re looking for something sweet and indulgent or tangy and revitalizing, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Classic Bourbon Old Fashioned
A classic cocktail that never goes out of style, the Bourbon Old Fashioned is a masterclass in simplicity and sophistication. With its rich flavors and velvety texture, this drink is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon whiskey
• 1 sugar cube (about 1/4 tsp or 1 g)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass filled with ice, place the sugar cube.
2. Add the bourbon and bitters.
3. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to dissolve the sugar and combine flavors.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink (if using) and discard.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Bourbon Mint Julep
A refreshing twist on the classic mint julep, this bourbon-based cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 cup crushed ice
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, plus sprigs for garnish
– Club soda, to serve
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, crushed ice, simple syrup, and peppermint extract.
2. Add fresh mint leaves to the mixture and muddle gently with a spoon or muddler to release oils and flavor.
3. Fill the mixing glass with additional crushed ice and stir for 20-30 seconds to chill and dilute.
4. Strain the julep into a chilled silver cup or rocks glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with sprigs of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: None, just mix and serve!
Bourbon Peach Smash
Elevate your summer gatherings with this refreshing Bourbon Peach Smash, perfect for warm weather and outdoor entertaining. This twist on the classic mojito combines the sweetness of peaches with the smoothness of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
– 3 tablespoons simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 6-8 mint leaves
– Club soda
– Ice
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the diced peaches with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their natural sweetness.
2. Add bourbon, lime juice, and simple syrup to the pitcher. Stir until well combined.
3. Add mint leaves to the pitcher and stir gently.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Bourbon Peach Smash mixture over the ice.
5. Top each glass off with club soda and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Maple Bourbon Sour
Maple Bourbon Sour: A Twist on the Classic Cocktail
This sweet and tangy cocktail combines the richness of maple syrup with the smoothness of bourbon, perfect for a special occasion or just a relaxing evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
– 1 dash Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, lemon juice, and maple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Bourbon Ginger Highball
Elevate your highball game with this bourbon-infused twist on the classic cocktail. The spicy kick from ginger beer pairs perfectly with the smoothness of bourbon, making it a perfect drink for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Slice of fresh ginger (optional)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the bourbon and top with ginger beer.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish with a slice of fresh ginger, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to drink as soon as you pour it.
Enjoy your Bourbon Ginger Highball!
Spiced Apple Bourbon Punch
Warm up with this inviting blend of autumnal flavors, perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday parties. This Spiced Apple Bourbon Punch combines the sweetness of apples and spices with the richness of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 cinnamon stick, crushed
– 6-8 whole cloves
– Sliced apples and oranges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large punch bowl, combine apple cider, bourbon whiskey, lemon-lime soda, and orange juice.
2. Stir in crushed cinnamon stick and whole cloves until fragrant.
3. Add maple syrup and stir to dissolve.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Spiced Apple Bourbon Punch chilled, garnished with sliced apples and oranges.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is a refreshing and flavorful punch that’s ready to serve.
Bourbon Lemonade Spritzer
Elevate your summer gatherings with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade. Bourbon adds a depth of flavor and a hint of sophistication to this fruity and bubbly drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup bourbon whiskey (such as Maker’s Mark or Jack Daniel’s)
– 1 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 4 cups sparkling water
– Sliced lemons for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice, bourbon, and simple syrup. Stir until well combined.
2. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, add sparkling water to the pitcher and stir gently.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Bourbon Lemonade Spritzer over the ice.
5. Garnish each glass with a slice of lemon.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Blackberry Bourbon Smash
This sweet and tangy Blackberry Bourbon Smash is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique twist on a classic cocktail. With the sweetness of blackberries, the warmth of bourbon, and the crunch of mint, this drink is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh blackberries
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 6-8 mint leaves
– Ice
– Club soda
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the blackberries with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their juice.
2. Add bourbon, lime juice, and simple syrup to the pitcher. Stir until combined.
3. Muddle in the mint leaves to release their oils and flavor.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Blackberry Bourbon Smash mixture over the ice.
5. Top each glass off with club soda and garnish with additional blackberries and mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Bourbon Cherry Coke Float
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and tangy with this unique twist on the classic Coke float. This bourbon-infused treat is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup cherry syrup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (such as Maker’s Mark or Jack Daniel’s)
– 1 can of Coca-Cola
– Cherry slices for garnish
Instructions:
1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a tall glass.
2. Pour in 1-2 tablespoons of cherry syrup, depending on your desired level of sweetness.
3. Add 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon whiskey, stirring gently to combine.
4. Top with Coca-Cola, allowing the foam to form and settle.
5. Garnish with cherry slices and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy treat that’s ready in just a few minutes.
Bourbon Honey Tea Cooler
A refreshing twist on traditional iced tea, this Bourbon Honey Tea Cooler combines the smoothness of bourbon with the sweetness of honey and a hint of citrus. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart brewed black tea, chilled
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup honey
– Juice of 1 lime
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves, optional
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the chilled tea and bourbon.
2. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Bourbon Honey Tea Cooler over ice in tall glasses. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
Smoky Bourbon Manhattan
A twist on the classic cocktail, this Smoky Bourbon Manhattan combines the smoothness of bourbon with the smokiness of mezcal and a hint of vanilla from the maple syrup. Perfect for a sophisticated evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz mezcal
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 1/4 oz maple syrup
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add bourbon, mezcal, sweet vermouth, and maple syrup.
3. Add two dashes of Angostura bitters.
4. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None (just stir and serve!)
Bourbon Pineapple Mojito
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique fusion of bourbon, pineapple, and mint. This refreshing drink is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a twist on the classic mojito.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 cup crushed ice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– Club soda
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the mint leaves and pineapple chunks with a splash of simple syrup.
2. Add the bourbon, lime juice, and crushed ice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Fill a highball glass with crushed ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with additional mint leaves and pineapple chunks.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in minutes.
Bourbon Vanilla Cream Soda
Elevate your soda game with this unique and delicious Bourbon Vanilla Cream Soda recipe. This refreshing drink combines the smoothness of bourbon, the sweetness of vanilla, and the fizziness of cream soda.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cream soda
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (such as Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the cream soda, leaving about an inch at the top.
3. Add the bourbon whiskey and stir gently to combine.
4. Add the vanilla extract and simple syrup, stirring until well combined.
5. Stir again briefly to distribute the flavors evenly.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve)
Bourbon Basil Gimlet
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic gimlet, featuring the smoothness of bourbon and the brightness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the basil leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the bourbon, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of fresh basil.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Bourbon Orange Blossom
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on a classic bourbon drink. The subtle sweetness of orange blossom water pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of bourbon, making it a perfect sipper for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 oz orange blossom water
– Dash of simple syrup (optional)
– Orange twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, orange liqueur, and orange juice.
3. Add a dash of orange blossom water and simple syrup (if using).
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, this is a cocktail!
Bourbon Raspberry Fizz
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Bourbon Raspberry Fizz recipe, perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a sophisticated twist on the classic gin fizz. With its sweet and tangy flavors, this drink is sure to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 3/4 oz fresh raspberry puree
– 1/2 oz lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3 oz club soda
– Fresh raspberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon whiskey, raspberry puree, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake gently for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with fresh raspberries.
Cooking Time: None, just mix and enjoy!
Bourbon Spiced Cider
As the weather cools down, a warm and spicy cider is just what you need to cozy up by the fire. This Bourbon Spiced Cider recipe combines the richness of bourbon with the warmth of spices to create a delightful fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 gallons apple cider
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (such as Maker’s Mark or Jim Beam)
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider and bourbon whiskey.
2. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Strain the cider into a large pitcher or jug to remove the spices.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bourbon Lavender Lemon Drop
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and tangy with this unique Bourbon Lavender Lemon Drop recipe. This refreshing cocktail combines the smoothness of bourbon, the subtlety of lavender, and the zing of lemon in a single glass.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 oz lavender syrup (see note)
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– Splash of sparkling water
– Lemon twist or lavender sprig for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, lemon juice, lavender syrup, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of sparkling water.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or lavender sprig.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Bourbon Grapefruit Paloma
This refreshing twist on the classic Paloma cocktail combines the tartness of grapefruit with the smooth richness of bourbon, perfect for warm weather or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– 1/2 oz agave syrup
– 3 oz grapefruit-flavored soda (such as Jarritos)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add bourbon, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with ice.
5. Top with grapefruit-flavored soda.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Bourbon Chocolate Espresso Martini
Elevate your cocktail game with this rich and decadent Bourbon Chocolate Espresso Martini, perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 oz Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 oz Kahlúa coffee liqueur
– 1/2 oz espresso (cooled)
– 1/4 oz heavy cream
– Ice
– Chocolate shavings or whipped cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, white chocolate liqueur, Kahlúa, and espresso to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the martini into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with heavy cream.
6. Garnish with chocolate shavings or whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing bourbon cocktail recipes! From classic twists to fruity fusions, there’s something for everyone on this list. Try a Bourbon Old Fashioned, Bourbon Mint Julep, or Bourbon Peach Smash for a taste of tradition. Or, shake things up with a Maple Bourbon Sour, Bourbon Ginger Highball, or Spiced Apple Bourbon Punch. With 20 unique recipes to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect drink to enjoy on those warm summer days and nights.
