Classic Whisky Smash Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces of bourbon
  • 1 lemon half
  • 2-4 fresh mint leaves
  • 1 tablespoon of simple syrup
  • Crushed ice

Steps and instructions

  1. Take the mint leaves and lemon half and place in a cocktail shaker.
  2. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently smash or muddle the mint and lemon to release their juices.
  3. Add the bourbon and simple syrup into the cocktail shaker.
  4. Add crushed ice until the shaker is nearly full.
  5. Secure the lid on the cocktail shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
  6. Strain the cocktail into a glass filled with crushed ice.
  7. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a lemon slice if desired, and serve immediately.

Tools for making

  • Cocktail shaker - A container used for mixing and shaking the ingredients together.
  • Muddler - A tool used to crush or muddle ingredients such as mint or fruit.
  • Crushed ice - Ice that has been crushed into small pieces, used to chill and dilute the drink.
  • Glass - A vessel used to serve the Whisky Smash.

Recipe variations

  • Substitute bourbon with rye whiskey for a spicier flavor.
  • Replace the lemon with lime for a twist on the classic recipe.
  • Add a splash of orange liqueur, such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier, for a citrusy kick.
  • Experiment with different herbs like basil or sage instead of mint.
  • Try using flavored simple syrups such as ginger or lavender for a unique taste.
  • Add a splash of soda water or sparkling water for a fizzy variation.
  • For a fruity twist, muddle berries like strawberries or blackberries along with the mint and lemon.
  • Infuse the bourbon with different flavors by soaking it with ingredients like cinnamon sticks or vanilla beans.
  • Adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less simple syrup according to taste.
  • For a smoky twist, use a peated Scotch whisky instead of bourbon.

Recipe overview

The Whisky Smash is a classic cocktail that offers a refreshing blend of sweet, tart, and mint flavors, perfect for an evening relax or a social gathering. This recipe combines the rich depth of bourbon with the bright freshness of mint and lemon, all balanced by a hint of sweetness from the simple syrup. The muddling and shaking processes infuse the flavors beautifully, creating a cocktail that's as flavorful as it is enjoyable. This recipe is simple enough for beginners but offers a complexity of flavors that even experienced mixologists will appreciate. So grab your cocktail shaker and let's get started on making your own Whisky Smash.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of whiskey instead of bourbon? Yes, you can substitute bourbon with your preferred type of whiskey, such as rye whiskey or Tennessee whiskey.
  2. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of a fresh lemon? While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice if fresh lemons are not available. However, the taste might be slightly different.
  3. Can I use granulated sugar instead of simple syrup? It is recommended to use simple syrup as it dissolves easily in the cocktail. If you don't have simple syrup, you can make it by combining equal parts of granulated sugar and water, heating until the sugar dissolves, and then cooling before using.
  4. Can I use regular ice cubes instead of crushed ice? Crushed ice is preferred for this recipe as it helps to properly muddle the mint and lemon, as well as provides a better texture for the cocktail. However, if crushed ice is not available, you can use regular ice cubes, but the final result may vary slightly.
  5. What type of glass should I use to serve the Whisky Smash? Traditionally, a rocks glass or an old-fashioned glass is used to serve the Whisky Smash. However, you can use any short tumbler or glassware of your choice.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cocktail shaker - Used to mix and shake the ingredients together.
  • Muddler - Used to gently smash or muddle the mint and lemon to release their flavors.
  • Crushed ice - Used to chill the cocktail and provide a refreshing texture.
  • Glass - A serving glass to hold and present the cocktail.
  • Garnish - Optional sprig of mint or lemon slice to enhance the presentation and flavor.

Origin stories

The Whisky Smash, a cocktail that bridges the gap between the Mint Julep and the Whisky Sour, traces its roots back to the mid-19th century. Its first recorded mention appears in the famous bar-tending guide by Jerry Thomas, who is often considered the father of American mixology. Likened to "a julep on a small plan," the Whisky Smash was a staple of pre-prohibition era cocktail culture. This historical tipple, with its muddling of mint and citrus, is a delightful balance of sour, sweet, and spirit, a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted, simple cocktails. It was revived in the 21st century by renowned mixologist Dale DeGroff at the Rainbow Room in New York City, reaffirming its status as a classic American cocktail.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.