Get ready for the holidays with these festive Christmas Bourbon Cocktails! They mix rich bourbon with sweet flavors and spices to create a warm and cozy drink.
These cocktails are not just tasty; they’re also perfect for sharing with friends and family during celebrations. I love to sip on one while wrapping gifts—talk about holiday spirit! 🎁🥃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon: This is the star of your cocktail! Any good quality bourbon will work, but I enjoy using a smooth brand like Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark for its rich flavor.
Fresh Orange Juice: Fresh juice brightens the drink. If you don’t have any on hand, bottled juice is a decent substitute. However, freshly squeezed is always best for flavor!
Maple Syrup: This adds a lovely sweetness. You can replace it with simple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer. If you want a bolder flavor, try a flavored syrup like cinnamon.
Angostura Bitters: This adds depth to the drink. If you’re out of Angostura, feel free to use other bitters, such as orange bitters, for a different twist.
How Do You Mix a Holiday Cocktail Without Overdoing It?
Mixing cocktails is an art, and it’s essential to find balance. Here’s how to get it just right!
- Start by measuring your ingredients precisely. This ensures the flavors blend well.
- Use quality ice. Larger ice cubes melt slowly, keeping your drink cold without diluting it too quickly.
- Stir or shake well until chilled—this is key for mixing the flavors. If you stir, do it gently but long enough to cool the ingredients.
- Finally, don’t skip the garnish! The orange slice and cranberries add eye appeal and enhance the flavor.
Cheers to a delightful holiday spirit with this easy-to-make Christmas Bourbon Cocktail!
How to Make a Christmas Bourbon Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz fresh orange juice
- 1/2 oz maple syrup or simple syrup
- 2-3 dashes angostura bitters
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Orange slice (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This festive cocktail takes about 5 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy—perfect for holiday gatherings where you want to impress but not spend all day in the kitchen (or bar)!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Mixing Glass:
Start by filling a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice. This will chill the drink as you mix.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Next, add the bourbon, fresh orange juice, maple syrup (or simple syrup), and the dashes of angostura bitters into the ice-filled glass. This combination of flavors will create your delicious holiday cocktail.
3. Chill and Combine:
Use a bar spoon or a shaker to stir the mixture gently. If you’re using a shaker, you can give it a light shake. Do this until everything is well chilled—about 15-20 seconds will do!
4. Strain Into a Glass:
Take a rocks glass and fill it with ice. Now strain the chilled cocktail mixture over the ice. This keeps your drink perfectly cool!
5. Garnish for Holiday Cheer:
To finish it off, garnish your cocktail with a fresh orange slice and a skewer of cranberries. This not only looks festive but adds a pop of flavor!
6. Enjoy!
Serve the cocktail immediately and take a moment to enjoy the festive aromas before you sip. Cheers to cozy holiday moments!
Can I Use Different Types of Bourbon?
Absolutely! While any good quality bourbon will work, you may want to choose a smoother option like Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark for the best flavor experience. Feel free to experiment with different brands to find your favorite!
What If I Can’t Find Fresh Orange Juice?
No problem! You can use bottled orange juice as a substitute. Just ensure it’s 100% natural without added sugars for the best flavor. Freshly squeezed is always preferred, but this will still work in a pinch.
Can I Make This Cocktail in Large Batches?
Yes, you can! To make a larger quantity, simply multiply the ingredient amounts and mix in a pitcher. Just remember to serve over ice to keep it chilled and fresh. Garnish each glass individually for extra flair!
How Should I Store Leftover Cocktail Ingredients?
For any leftovers, store the bourbon, bitters, and syrup at room temperature in their original containers. Fresh orange juice should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days. Prepare the cocktail fresh whenever possible for the best taste!