Paul Kushner
The Hazelnut Bourbon Sour is rich, nutty, and perfectly balanced with a splash of citrus. It takes the classic bourbon sour and gives it a cozy twist by adding hazelnut liqueur, which smooths out the bourbon’s edge and adds a soft, toasty flavor. Fresh lemon juice keeps things bright, while a touch of simple syrup ties it all together. It’s a great choice for cooler evenings or when you want something a little more comforting without going too sweet. Easy to sip and full of character, this cocktail keeps things warm, smooth, and balanced.
Tasting Notes
This Hazelnut Bourbon Sour is warm, nutty, and balanced with just the right amount of tartness. The bourbon brings bold flavor with a smooth finish, while the Frangelico adds a soft hazelnut note that makes the drink feel cozy without being heavy. Lemon juice gives it a fresh, tangy bite, and the simple syrup rounds it all out with a touch of sweetness. It’s familiar like a classic whiskey sour, but the hazelnut twist makes it feel new.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a shaker, a jigger, and a strainer. A citrus press makes juicing the lemon easier and faster. Serve it in a rocks glass over fresh ice or neat in a coupe if you prefer it chilled but smooth. If you like garnish, a lemon wheel or twist adds a clean finish. For extra presentation, a large ice cube works well to slow dilution.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- ½ oz Frangelico (hazelnut liqueur)
- ¾ oz lemon juice
- ¼ oz simple syrup
- Garnish: lemon twist or toasted hazelnut (optional)
Instructions
- Add bourbon, Frangelico, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a lemon twist or a few toasted hazelnuts for a rich aromatic touch.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. If your bourbon is high-proof or bold, you can increase the simple syrup slightly to keep the drink smooth.
- Don’t overdo the Frangelico—just ½ oz adds enough hazelnut without overpowering the bourbon.
- Shake hard to mix everything evenly and get a nice chill.
- A lemon twist over the top adds aroma without changing the flavor.
When to Serve
This Hazelnut Bourbon Sour works great in fall and winter when you want something a little richer, but it’s light enough to enjoy year-round. Serve it at cocktail hour, after dinner, or during small gatherings when you want a whiskey drink that feels a little special. It’s also a good choice for folks who like bourbon but want something smoother and slightly sweet.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- For bourbon, stick with something smooth and well-rounded like Maker’s Mark, Elijah Craig, or Four Roses.
- Frangelico is the go-to for hazelnut liqueur—it’s widely available and works perfectly here.
- Use a basic 1:1 simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water), and always go with fresh lemon juice for the best balance and brightness.
Similar Cocktails
- Mango Bourbon Lemonade
- Blood Orange Amaretto Sour
- Watermelon Bourbon Sour Slush
- Watermelon Bourbon Lemonade
- Plum Bourbon Smash
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- ½ oz Frangelico hazelnut liqueur
- ¾ oz lemon juice
- ¼ oz simple syrup
- Garnish: lemon twist or toasted hazelnut optional
Instructions
- Add bourbon, Frangelico, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a lemon twist or a few toasted hazelnuts for a rich aromatic touch.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Add an egg white for a silky sour variation with a foamy top.
- Use a high-proof bourbon for added depth and warmth.
- Toast hazelnuts for garnish to enhance the aroma and flavor of the drink.
