Name: Whiskey Sour Recipe: Tangy and Refreshing
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 2 oz bourbon; 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice; 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar-to-water); 1 egg white (optional); Ice cubes; Optional: Orange slice (maraschino cherry); Suggested Pairings: Cheese (sparkling water)

Introduction

Table of Contents

The Whiskey Sour is a classic, refreshing cocktail, perfect for happy hours, gatherings, or a relaxing evening drink. This tangy, well-balanced drink, featuring smooth bourbon, zesty lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness, delivers a vibrant, timeless flavor in every sip. Presented in a chilled rocks glass, garnished with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry, this Whiskey Sour offers a bright, inviting aesthetic that elevates any occasion. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for various preferences, and ideal for home mixologists seeking a crowd-pleasing cocktail that brings a sophisticated, tangy charm to any setting.

Ingredients

For the Whiskey Sour:

2 oz bourbon
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar-to-water ratio)
1 egg white (optional, for frothy texture)
Ice cubes

For Serving:

Optional: Orange slice, maraschino cherry
Suggested Accompaniments: Light appetizers (e.g., cheese, nuts)
Suggested Pairings: Sparkling water, soda
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a chilled rocks glass
Suggested Equipment: Cocktail shaker, jigger, strainer, citrus juicer, small saucepan (for simple syrup), chilled rocks glass

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Simple Syrup (if not pre-made): In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water. Heat over medium, stirring until sugar dissolves. Cool completely. (Makes enough for multiple cocktails; store in fridge.)
Shake Cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using). If using egg white, dry shake (without ice) for 15 seconds to emulsify. Add ice and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
Taste and Adjust: Taste a small sip and adjust the sweetness with an additional 1/4 tsp simple syrup or tanginess with a splash of lemon juice for a balanced flavor.
Serve: Strain into a chilled rocks glass filled with ice (or straight up if preferred). Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry. Serve with light appetizers, sparkling water, or soda.
Optional Foam: If using egg white, ensure a vigorous shake to create a frothy top for a classic texture.

Tips for Better Whiskey Sour

Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, tangiest flavor; avoid bottled juice.
Taste the cocktail before serving to balance sweetness and acidity, as lemons vary.
Chill the glass in the fridge for 10 minutes to keep the drink cold longer.
Use a good-quality bourbon for a smoother, richer flavor.
Use a chilled rocks glass for a vibrant presentation, highlighting the golden cocktail and colorful garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare simple syrup up to 1 month in advance; store in the fridge.
Shake vigorously with ice to properly chill and dilute the cocktail.
Enhance aesthetic: Present in a chilled rocks glass with an orange slice and cherry for a classic, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Sour: Replace bourbon with non-alcoholic whiskey or apple juice; adjust sweetness as needed.
Vegan Whiskey Sour: Omit egg white or use aquafaba (1 tbsp per cocktail) for frothy texture.
Spicy Whiskey Sour: Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters or a pinch of cayenne to the shaker.
Honey Whiskey Sour: Replace simple syrup with 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey-to-water ratio).
Fruity Whiskey Sour: Add 1/2 oz peach or raspberry liqueur for a fruit-forward twist.
Low-Sugar Whiskey Sour: Reduce simple syrup to 1/4 oz or use a sugar-free sweetener.
New York Sour: Float 1/2 oz red wine over the finished cocktail for a layered effect.
Herbed Whiskey Sour: Muddle 2–3 fresh basil leaves in the shaker before adding ingredients.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store simple syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 month.
Do not store mixed cocktails; prepare fresh for the best flavor.
Serve immediately after shaking to maintain chill and foam (if using egg white).
Use leftovers of simple syrup for other cocktails or iced tea.
Pair with light appetizers like cheese or nuts to complement the tangy, sweet flavor.
Presented in a chilled rocks glass with vibrant garnishes for a sophisticated, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 1 serving (1 cocktail, with egg white):

Calories: 180 kcal
Total Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg (with egg white: ~50mg)
Sodium: 20mg (with egg white: ~60mg)
Total Carbohydrates: 10g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 9g
Protein: 0g (with egg white: ~3g)
Vitamin A: 0% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 10% Daily Value
Calcium: 0% Daily Value
Iron: 2% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by brand. Moderate in sugar; try the low-sugar version. Pair with low-calorie snacks for balance.

Conclusion

This Whiskey Sour recipe offers a tangy, refreshing cocktail, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a timeless classic. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The smooth bourbon and zesty lemon delight every sip. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its sophisticated, versatile appeal.