Cranberry Whiskey Sour

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This cranberry whiskey sour is the perfect combination of sweet, sour, and tart. It’s a festive take on the classic whiskey sour.

Cranberry whiskey sour in glass garnished with a lemon.

Whiskey is one of the most popular drinks in the states right now. A traditional whiskey sour is made with whiskey, lemon juice, sugar, and an egg white.

I’ve given this vintage drink a tart twist by adding cranberry juice. I’ve also omitted the egg white. When making the cocktail, you can use either sugar or simple syrup, if you have it on hand.

How do I make simple syrup?

Simple syrup is so easy to make. You only need two ingredients – sugar and water. I always use equal parts sugar to water, say 1 cup of sugar to 1 cup of water. If you want to make more or less, adjust the amounts. Bring it to a boil over high heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar. 

Don’t let the mixture boil too long or you will get candy. Boil and stir just until the liquid is clear. Cool completely and store in the refrigerator. 

How else can I use simple syrup?

I keep the simple syrup in my refrigerator so my husband can sweeten his iced tea. There are so many other uses though, including using it in cocktails, sweetening lemonade, and moistening cakes. Brush simple syrup over baked cake layers or cupcakes before frosting for added moistness.

Cranberry whiskey sour next to a bottle of Uncle Nearest whiskey.

I use a cocktail shaker to mix the ingredients. Why? Because just stirring them together doesn’t get the job done and, if you use sugar, will incorporate the sugar better.

If you were to mix everything in a glass with ice, the sugar would sit on the bottom and most likely clump up. Nobody wants that at the bottom of their drink.

Tips for Making a Great Cocktail

  • Use the best ingredients you can afford.
  • Ingredients should be chilled or at room temperature.
  • Measure accurately for the best cocktail flavor.
  • Use larger ice cubes when possible. Crushed ice melts and waters down a drink.
  • Garnish the drink for a lovely presentation.

If you’re a whiskey or bourbon lover, try my blood orange whiskey smash, original Irish coffee on a warm night, or maple bourbon sour.

Cranberry whiskey sour Twitter image.

 

Cranberry Whiskey Sour

Delight your guests with a holiday twist to a classic cocktail. The cranberry whiskey sour is perfect for holiday entertaining.
5 from 11 votes
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Beverages and Cocktails
Cuisine: American
Servings: 1 cocktail

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces Whiskey
  • 4 ounces Cranberry Juice
  • Juice of one medium lemon
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • Ice

Instructions

  • In a cocktail shaker filled with ice combine the whiskey, cranberry juice, fresh lemon juice, and sugar.
  • Shake briefly to combine.
  • Strain into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice.
  • Garnish with a lemon slice and serve.

Recipe Notes

Substitute a teaspoon of simple syrup for the sugar. Adjust for taste.

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One Comment

  1. 5 stars
    I made this little cocktail tonight and we really enjoyed it! I used simple syrup and a splash of pineapple juice to sweeten it

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