This Cranberry Whiskey Sour is a fun twist on the classic drink! Mixing tart cranberry juice with smooth whiskey creates a bright and refreshing flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.
Let’s face it; this drink will make you feel fancy in no time! I love serving it over ice with a slice of lemon—it adds a nice touch that really makes the drink shine.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whiskey: Bourbon brings sweetness, while rye adds spice. You can choose based on your taste preference. Want a non-alcoholic option? Try a whiskey-flavored soda for a similar vibe without the alcohol!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the drink. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice works too, but fresh has a better taste. Lime juice can also be a fun substitute if you want a twist.
Cranberry Juice: Unsweetened cranberry juice keeps the drink tart and refreshing. If you want sweetness, use cranberry cocktail juice but adjust the simple syrup. You could also use pomegranate juice for a different flavor profile.
Simple Syrup: Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less syrup. You can make your own by mixing equal parts sugar and water until dissolved, or use honey or agave syrup instead.
Egg White: The egg white adds froth and a creamy texture. If you’re concerned about using raw egg, simply leave it out or use aquafaba (chickpea liquid) as a great vegan alternative!
How Do I Achieve a Frothy Texture in My Cocktail?
Creating that frothy texture is key to a great Whiskey Sour! Here’s how to get it right:
- Always start with a dry shake, which means shaking the ingredients without ice first. This helps combine the egg white with the other ingredients, producing plenty of froth.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. Aeration is essential here!
- Then, add ice and shake again. This chilling step keeps your drink refreshing while maintaining that foam from earlier.
- Strain gently into your glass to keep the foam intact on top, creating a beautiful finish your guests will love!
With these tips, your cocktail will be both beautiful and delicious. Cheers!
Cranberry Whiskey Sour
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye)
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 3/4 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 egg white (optional, for frothiness)
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Sprig of rosemary (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious drink takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll have a few minutes to gather your ingredients, mix the cocktail, and garnish it beautifully. Perfect for your next gathering or a cozy evening at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Your Ingredients:
Start by gathering your cocktail shaker. In it, combine the whiskey, fresh lemon juice, cranberry juice, simple syrup, and egg white if you’re using it. This is where the magic begins!
2. Dry Shake for Frothiness:
Before adding ice, seal the shaker and shake it vigorously for about 15 seconds. This steps emulsifies the egg white, making your drink super frothy. It’s all about that creamy texture!
3. Chill the Mixture:
Now, it’s time to add the ice cubes to the shaker. Shake again for another 15-20 seconds until the mixture is well chilled. You want it cool and refreshing!
4. Strain and Serve:
Grab a rocks glass and fill it with fresh ice. Carefully strain the mixture into the glass, so you get all that lovely foam on top. It should look beautiful!
5. Add Some Fancy Garnishes:
To make your drink pop, garnish it with a skewer of fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. This not only looks elegant but adds an aromatic touch, too!
6. Enjoy Your Creation:
Now, sit back, sip, and enjoy the wonderful combination of tartness from the cranberry and smoothness from the whiskey. Cheers to a delightful cocktail!
This Cranberry Whiskey Sour is perfect for any festivity or casual gathering, bringing a refreshing twist to a beloved classic. Enjoy every sip!
Can I Use Egg White Alternatives?
Definitely! If you prefer not to use egg whites, consider using aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a vegan substitute. About two tablespoons of aquafaba will give you a similar frothy texture!
Can I Prepare This Cocktail in Advance?
While it’s best to serve it fresh for maximum frothiness, you can mix the ingredients (without ice) in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake with ice when you’re ready to serve!
How Should I Store Leftover Cranberry Juice?
If you have leftover cranberry juice, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be good for about a week. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for later use in cocktails or smoothies!
What Other Garnishes Can I Use?
While fresh cranberries and rosemary look great, you could also use a lemon twist, which adds a lovely citrus aroma, or even a cinnamon stick for a warm spice touch!
