Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour
This cocktail isn’t just for show. The rich depth of whiskey, mellowed by a touch of sweetness, makes every sip smooth and inviting.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring spoons
- Citrus Juicer
- Strainer
- Old-fashioned or rocks glass
- Bar spoon
Ingredients
For the Cocktail:
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 oz fresh cranberry juice
- ¾ oz fresh orange juice
- ½ oz simple syrup adjust to taste
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- Ice cubes
For Garnish:
- Orange twist or slice
- Fresh cranberries
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Measure out 2 oz of whiskey, 1 oz cranberry juice, ¾ oz orange juice, ½ oz lemon juice, and ½ oz simple syrup.
- Slice an orange for garnish and pick a few fresh cranberries if you’re using them.
- Pro tip: Always juice citrus right before making your cocktail—pre-bottled juice can make the drink taste flat.
Step 2: Fill the Shaker
- Add all the liquid ingredients to your cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker about halfway with ice cubes.
- Pro tip: Use fresh, large ice cubes if possible—they melt slower and keep the cocktail from getting watered down too quickly.
Step 3: Shake it Up
- Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15–20 seconds.
- You want the outside of the shaker to feel cold and slightly frosty.
- Pro tip: Shake with a firm wrist motion to fully mix the cranberry and citrus flavors with the whiskey.
Step 4: Strain into Glass
- Place a strainer over your shaker and pour the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Make sure none of the small ice shards or pulp get in—it keeps the drink smooth and pretty.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Add an orange twist or slice and float a few fresh cranberries on top.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
- Pro tip: Run the orange twist around the rim of the glass before dropping it in to release extra aroma.
Notes
Nutritional Value (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 180–200
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 2mg