Sour Smash Cocktail Recipe

Ready to shake up your cocktail game? A Sour Smash perfectly balances tartness and sweetness, making it a refreshing choice for any occasion. To make a Sour Smash, you’ll need fresh citrus juice, quality spirits, sugar or simple syrup, and plenty of ice.

Grab a shaker, some fresh lemons or limes, and your favorite bourbon or whiskey. The key is to get the balance right—too much citrus and it’s too tart, too little and it’s too sweet. A good rule of thumb is a ratio of two parts spirit to one part citrus and one part simple syrup.

Pay attention to the details: use a fine mesh strainer to catch any pulp or seeds when you shake and strain your cocktail. Smack a mint sprig between your hands to release its aroma before garnishing. Little touches like these can elevate your drink from good to great, making your Sour Smash unforgettable.

Key Ingredients

A Sour Smash demands fresh, high-quality ingredients. Bourbon whiskey is typically the base, though some variations use Canadian whiskey. Fresh lemon juice provides the essential acidity, while mint or spearmint adds a refreshing aroma and flavor.

You’ll also need a sweetener, usually in the form of simple syrup. For those watching their calories or carbohydrates, consider using a natural sweetener like agave. Egg whites can also be added to create a creamy texture, enhancing the drink’s overall mouthfeel.

Tools and Glassware

The right tools are crucial for a well-crafted Sour Smash. Use a metal cup or a mason jar for mashing ingredients like mint and lemon wedges, ensuring they blend well with the whiskey. A strainer will help you achieve a smooth drink free from bits of mint or pulp.

Lowball glasses are ideal for serving, providing the perfect size and shape for the drink. For a more specialized touch, consider using a traditional whiskey glass, which enhances the drink’s aroma. Remember to garnish with mint sprigs and lemon slices for that final touch.

Making Your Sour Smash

Creating a vibrant Sour Smash involves a perfectly balanced recipe and customization to suit your taste. Let’s dive into both aspects to elevate your cocktail game.

The Basic Sour Smash Recipe

Start with good quality bourbon like Buffalo Trace, Elijah Craig, or Four Roses. This forms the backbone of your drink. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz lemon juice
• 3/4 oz simple syrup
• Ice
• Mint leaves

To prepare:

1. Add bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup into a Boston shaker.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and give it a good shake – about 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
4. Garnish with a mint sprig and a lemon wheel.

Customizing Your Sour Smash

You can modify the classic recipe to fit your preferences. Consider these adjustments:

• Sweetener Variations: Swap simple syrup with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Fruit Infusions: Muddle blackberries, raspberries, or peaches with mint leaves before adding the liquid ingredients to impart fruity notes.
• Herbal Touches: Try basil or fresh mint for a unique aroma.

Experiment with different whiskeys like rye or rum to change the flavor base. Don’t be afraid to mix in some ginger beer or ginger ale for an effervescent twist.

By following these tips, you can make a Sour Smash that’s uniquely yours and perfect for any occasion.