The Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour is a seasonal spin on the classic, bringing together bourbon’s warmth with the cozy sweetness of maple syrup. Fresh lemon juice brightens the drink, balancing the richness, while a pinch of cinnamon adds a subtle spice that enhances its autumnal feel. Garnished with a cinnamon stick and a lemon wheel, this cocktail is as inviting as it is flavorful. It’s perfect for sipping fireside, serving at fall gatherings, or offering as a festive option during the holiday season. Simple to make yet full of character, it’s a cocktail that feels both familiar and fresh.

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Tasting Notes

The Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour combines warmth, brightness, and a touch of spice for a well-rounded cocktail. Bourbon provides a deep, oak-driven base with notes of caramel and vanilla, while lemon juice adds crisp acidity to balance the spirit. Maple syrup introduces smooth sweetness and a seasonal richness that pairs beautifully with whiskey. A pinch of ground cinnamon, when added, brings an extra layer of warmth and subtle spice that enhances both the maple and bourbon. Finished with a cinnamon stick and lemon wheel garnish, this cocktail is flavorful, aromatic, and perfect for cooler evenings.

Equipment and Glassware

This Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour is straightforward to prepare with a few essential tools. A cocktail shaker is necessary for chilling and blending the bourbon, citrus, and syrup. A jigger ensures precise measurements of each ingredient, keeping the balance of sweet, tart, and spirit consistent. A strainer provides a clean pour into the glass, removing ice shards for a smooth presentation. A bar spoon can be useful for incorporating the ground cinnamon evenly before shaking. Serve the drink in a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, which highlights the cocktail’s golden hue and holds the garnishes securely.

Ingredients

2 ounces bourbon
1.5 ounce lemon juice
0.5 ounce maple syrup
Pinch of ground cinnamon optional
Cinnamon sticks and lemon wheel for garnish

Instructions

Fill a cocktail shaker about two-thirds full with ice.
Pour in the bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup, and, if desired, a pinch of ground cinnamon.
Securely fasten the lid of the shaker and shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
Fill your cocktail glass with fresh ice.
Strain the cold whiskey sour mixture into the glass. Garnish with cinnamon stick and lemon wheel.
Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet, tangy, and spiced flavors of this Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour!

Pro Tips

Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for best results.
Opt for pure maple syrup to achieve the richest sweetness.
If you prefer a smoother texture, skip ground cinnamon and rely on the cinnamon stick garnish.
Chill your glass ahead of time for extra freshness.
Experiment with different bourbons; higher-proof options bring added depth.
Shake for at least 15 seconds to fully integrate the maple syrup.
For a festive twist, add a dash of orange bitters to the mix.

When to Serve

The Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour is ideal for autumn and winter months, when flavors of spice, citrus, and maple feel most inviting. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or cozy evenings by the fireplace. Its balance of sweet and tart makes it versatile enough to serve as a pre-dinner drink, setting the tone for a meal, or as a warming cocktail to enjoy after dinner. Because it’s both approachable and full-flavored, it works equally well for intimate gatherings or larger celebrations, providing a seasonal twist on the classic whiskey sour.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Bourbon: Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, or Elijah Craig for reliable depth.
Maple Syrup: Runamok or Crown Maple for rich, natural sweetness.
Cinnamon: Use high-quality ground cinnamon or Ceylon cinnamon sticks for garnish.
Lemon Juice: Always fresh-squeezed for balanced acidity.

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