Paul Kushner
The Cranberry Bourbon Smash is a refreshing cocktail that combines the bold, warming character of bourbon with the tart brightness of cranberry and lemon. Fresh cranberries and mint leaves are muddled to release their flavors, creating a lively base that balances richness and freshness. A touch of simple syrup smooths the edges, while optional club soda can add a light fizz. Garnished with mint and cranberries, this drink is both festive and versatile perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings, or a vibrant twist on a whiskey cocktail any time of year.
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Tasting Notes
The Cranberry Bourbon Smash is a bright, fruit-forward cocktail with a refreshing herbal edge. Bourbon lays the foundation with notes of oak, caramel, and vanilla, while cranberry juice brings tart, fruity character. Lemon juice adds crisp acidity, cutting through the richness of the spirit. Simple syrup balances the drink, rounding out the sharper flavors. Fresh cranberries provide an earthy fruitiness, while muddled mint leaves contribute cool freshness. Optional club soda lightens the drink with a gentle fizz. Finished with a garnish of mint and cranberries, this cocktail is festive, balanced, and approachable, making it perfect for gatherings year-round.
Equipment and Glassware
Making the Cranberry Bourbon Smash requires only a few essential tools. A cocktail shaker is needed to muddle the cranberries and mint, as well as to shake the drink thoroughly with ice. A muddler releases the juices and oils from the fruit and herbs, creating the cocktail’s base flavor. A jigger ensures precise measurements of the liquids, while a strainer delivers a smooth pour into the serving glass. A rocks glass is ideal for serving, as its sturdy design holds ice and highlights the drink’s rich color and garnish. These tools make preparation simple while producing a polished presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1/2 oz lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1/4 cup cranberries
- 6-8 mint leaves
- Club soda optional
- Mint sprig and cranberries for garnish
Instructions
- Muddle: In a cocktail shaker, muddle the fresh cranberries and mint leaves together to release their flavors.
- Add Liquids: Add the bourbon, cranberry juice, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake: Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Top Off: If desired, top off with a splash of club soda for a bit of fizz.
- Garnish: Garnish with a sprig of mint and a few cranberries.
- Serve: Enjoy your refreshing Cranberry Bourbon Smash.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh cranberries when in season for the brightest flavor.
- If fresh cranberries aren’t available, substitute with a small spoonful of cranberry preserves.
- Fresh lemon juice is essential for the best balance.
- Slap the mint leaves lightly before muddling to release oils without bruising them.
- Adjust simple syrup to your preferred sweetness level.
- For a smoother texture, double-strain the drink.
- Large ice cubes work best, keeping the drink chilled without diluting too quickly.otes.
When to Serve
The Cranberry Bourbon Smash is particularly fitting for autumn and winter celebrations, when cranberries are in season, but its refreshing quality also makes it suitable for spring and summer. It’s an excellent cocktail for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or any event where you want a drink that bridges fruitiness with bold spirit. Its festive look and garnish make it a natural centerpiece for Thanksgiving and Christmas occasions. At the same time, its balance of bourbon, mint, and citrus makes it versatile enough to enjoy year-round, whether at a casual gathering or an intimate evening at home.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Bourbon: Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, or Maker’s Mark for smooth, balanced flavor.
- Cranberry Juice: Ocean Spray 100% Cranberry Juice or a fresh-pressed local brand.
- Simple Syrup: Homemade syrup is best, but Liquid Alchemist is a quality option.
- Lemon Juice: Always squeeze fresh lemons for crisp acidity.
- Garnishes: Fresh mint sprigs and firm cranberries for aroma and presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1/2 oz lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1/4 cup cranberries
- 6-8 mint leaves
- Club soda optional
- Mint sprig and cranberries for garnish
Instructions
- Muddle: In a cocktail shaker, muddle the fresh cranberries and mint leaves together to release their flavors.
- Add Liquids: Add the bourbon, cranberry juice, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake: Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Top Off: If desired, top off with a splash of club soda for a bit of fizz.
- Garnish: Garnish with a sprig of mint and a few cranberries.
- Serve: Enjoy your refreshing Cranberry Bourbon Smash.
Notes
Pro Tips
- For deeper flavor, use unsweetened cranberry juice and adjust the simple syrup to taste.
- Muddle the cranberries firmly to ensure vibrant color and tartness.
- Try a flavored bourbon, such as one with vanilla or cinnamon notes, to add complexity.
