Cherry Lime Bourbon Smash
This muddled cocktail bursts with summer flavors, combining sweet cherries, tart lime, and robust bourbon to create a perfectly balanced and potent drink that anyone can master at home.
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker
- Muddler
- Rocks Glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon quality matters – Woodford Reserve or Buffalo Trace recommended
- 6-8 fresh cherries pitted (frozen can work in off-season)
- 1/2 lime cut into quarters
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup substitute: honey or simple syrup
- 2-3 fresh mint leaves optional but recommended
- soda water for topping
- ice cubes
- cherry and lime wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Add the pitted cherries and lime quarters to a sturdy cocktail shaker or mixing glass.
- Using a muddler (or the back of a wooden spoon), firmly press the cherries and lime to release their juices and essential oils. Press firmly enough to extract the juice but gently enough to avoid crushing the bitter lime pith – about 8-10 gentle presses should be perfect.
- Pour in the maple syrup and bourbon. If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, start with 2 teaspoons of maple syrup – you can always add more.
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Top with a splash of soda water (about 1-2 oz) for effervescence.
- Garnish with a fresh cherry and lime wedge. For an elevated presentation, add a light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg on top.
Notes
For a nonalcoholic version, replace bourbon with 1.5 oz of strong black tea and 0.5 oz of vanilla extract.
Pre-chilling your glass will help maintain the cocktail's ideal temperature.
This cocktail can be pre-batched (without ice or soda water) for up to 8 hours before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 185kcalCarbohydrates: 14gSugar: 12g
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