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.
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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.
