This Cranberry Whiskey Sour is a fun twist on the classic drink. It mixes zesty whiskey with tart cranberry juice for a refreshing taste that’s perfect any time!
I love how easy it is to whip up this drink. Just shake it up, pour over ice, and enjoy! It’s great for sipping while catching up with friends or unwinding after a long day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whiskey: Bourbon gives a sweet, rich flavor, while rye offers a spicier kick. If you’re not a whiskey fan, you could use rum or vodka for a different take—though it will change the flavor a bit.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key for brightness. If you’re in a pinch, you can use bottled lemon juice, but the fresh stuff really elevates the drink!
Cranberry Juice: I prefer unsweetened cranberry juice for a bold flavor, but if you like it sweeter, the lightly sweetened variety works too. You might also try pomegranate juice for a twist!
Simple Syrup: You can easily make this by dissolving equal parts sugar and hot water. If you’re looking for alternatives, honey or agave syrup can be great substitutes.
Egg White: This is optional but adds a smooth froth to the drink. If you’re avoiding eggs, you can skip it or use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a vegan alternative!
How Do I Get the Perfect Froth in My Whiskey Sour?
The froth in a whiskey sour comes from the egg white, which adds an amazing texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a dry shake: Combine your ingredients in a shaker without ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. This helps mix and emulsify the egg white.
- Next, add ice to the shaker and shake again until chilled for another 15-20 seconds. This will combine everything well and give it that nice frothy layer.
- Finally, strain the mixture into your glass. This helps keep any small ice bits out!
Remember, taking those extra steps for that frothy finish really makes your drink special!
Delicious Cranberry Whiskey Sour Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye)
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 egg white (optional, for froth)
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Sprig of rosemary or lemon peel (optional, for garnish)
- Ice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cocktail only requires about 10 minutes to make! You’ll spend a few minutes gathering your ingredients and shaking everything up, making it perfect for entertaining friends or enjoying a relaxing evening.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Your Ingredients:
Grab a shaker and start by adding the whiskey, fresh lemon juice, cranberry juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if you’re using it). This is where the magic begins!
2. Dry Shake for Froth:
Now it’s time to give that egg white some love! Shake the mixture vigorously without ice for about 15 seconds. This helps emulsify the egg white and creates a nice frothy texture.
3. Chill the Cocktail:
Add ice to the shaker and shake again, this time for about 15-20 seconds, until everything is well chilled. You want your drink to be refreshingly cold!
4. Strain Into a Glass:
Next, strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Take a moment to admire that beautiful frothy top!
5. Garnish It Up:
For a festive touch, garnish your drink by skewering fresh cranberries on a cocktail pick and placing them on top. If you’d like, you can add a sprig of rosemary or a twist of lemon peel for some extra aroma. It not only looks lovely but also adds a delightful fragrance!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Cranberry Whiskey Sour is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it immediately and take a moment to sip and savor the tart, bright flavors. Cheers!
This recipe combines the bright tartness of cranberry and lemon with the warmth of whiskey, topped with a frothy layer and eye-catching garnishes that make it perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use a Different Type of Whiskey?
Absolutely! While bourbon adds a sweet richness and rye provides a spicier flavor, you can use any whiskey you like. Just keep in mind that the taste of your cocktail will change slightly based on the type of whiskey you choose!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of My Cocktail?
If you prefer a sweeter drink, simply add more simple syrup to taste. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, ensuring it suits your palate without overwhelming the other flavors.
Can I Make This Cocktail Without Egg White?
Yes, you can! If you don’t want to use egg white, just skip that step. The cocktail will still be delicious, though it won’t have the frothy texture. You can also try using aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a vegan substitute!
How Should I Store Leftover Cocktail Ingredients?
Store any leftover lemon and cranberry juice in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to a week. As for whiskey, just keep it stored in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality!
