If fall had a cocktail, this would be it. 🍁 The Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour is warm, spiced, and just sweet enough—like sweater weather in a glass. I’ve served this at cozy dinner parties and quiet nights in, and it gets rave reviews every single time. Whether you’re sitting fireside or just unwinding after a long day, this is the sip that makes the moment feel special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one came from my love for cozy flavors and a need for an easy but impressive seasonal cocktail. I once made a batch for a fall gathering, and my friends begged me for the recipe—now it’s a staple in my cocktail lineup.
- Sweet meets spice: Maple and cinnamon are a match made in cozy cocktail heaven.
- Elevated but easy: Fancy enough for guests, simple enough for weeknights.
- Totally customizable: Use bourbon or rye, with or without the egg white.
- Makes a great batch cocktail—hello, crowd pleaser!
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 2 oz bourbon (or rye for more spice)
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz cinnamon maple syrup (see recipe below)
- Optional: 1/2 oz egg white for silky texture
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters (optional but adds depth)
- Ice
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best brightness and balance.
- For the syrup: combine 1/2 cup maple syrup with 1 cinnamon stick. Simmer for 5 minutes, then let steep until cool.
- No egg white? No problem—you’ll still get a rich, layered flavor.
- Want it extra festive? Rim the glass with cinnamon sugar before pouring.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the cinnamon maple syrup: Combine 1/2 cup pure maple syrup and 1 cinnamon stick in a small saucepan. Simmer for 5 minutes, then let steep off heat until cool. Store in fridge up to 2 weeks.
- Optional egg white method: Add bourbon, lemon juice, cinnamon maple syrup, egg white, and bitters to shaker. Dry shake (no ice) for about 15 seconds.
- Add ice and shake again until chilled (about 8–12 seconds).
- Double-strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice or serve straight up in a chilled coupe.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and lemon or orange wheel. Optional: sugar-cinnamon rim for flair.
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Balance too tart? Add a few extra drops of syrup or a splash of water.
- Too sweet? A touch more lemon will bring it back into balance.
- Want a richer spice? Infuse syrup longer or stir in a pinch of ground cinnamon.
- Shake long enough to emulsify the egg white—aim for a velvety top layer.
- Don’t skip the garnish—it adds aroma, flavor, and elegance.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Use rye whiskey: For more bite and complexity.
- Try a vanilla maple syrup: For a dessert-style twist.
- Serve warm: Heat gently with a touch of water for a hot cocktail twist (great for bonfires!).
- Make it a mocktail: Sub whiskey with brewed black tea or apple cider for a cozy, booze-free option.
- Hosting a crowd? Scale up and batch it! Combine ingredients without ice in a pitcher and shake individual servings to order.
FAQs
Can I skip the egg white?
Absolutely! It adds a luscious froth, but the drink is still delicious and balanced without it.
What’s the best bourbon to use?
A mid-range bourbon like Bulleit or Four Roses works beautifully. For more spice, go with a rye like Old Overholt or Rittenhouse.
How long does the cinnamon maple syrup last?
Stored in a sealed jar in the fridge, it’ll keep for up to 2 weeks—plenty of time to whip up a few more rounds!
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (syrup)
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon or rye
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz cinnamon maple syrup
- Optional: 1/2 oz egg white
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters (optional)
- Ice
Instructions:
- Make syrup by simmering 1/2 cup maple syrup and 1 cinnamon stick for 5 minutes. Cool completely, then strain.
- Add bourbon, lemon juice, syrup, egg white (if using), and bitters to a shaker. Shake hard without ice (dry shake) for 15 seconds.
- Add ice and shake again until chilled. Double-strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice or serve straight in a coupe.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and citrus wheel.
Nutrition: ~170 calories per serving
Craving more cozy sips or have your own twist on this one? I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below, tag me on Instagram @thekitchensaid, and don’t forget to share with a friend who could use a little extra comfort in their glass. Cheers! 🥂
