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Our bourbon smash combines bourbon, fresh mint, and lemon juice to create a delicious cocktail that’s perfect for your next dinner party!
I rarely work with bourbon. Not because I don’t like it, but because it’s usually enjoyed over ice with a water.
Well, that’s how I like it. With that being said, not everyone likes whiskey and water.
For that reason, Kim wanted to share her bourbon smash, made with our own simple syrup and fresh lemon and mint.
Similar to our coconut rum mojito, we combined alcohol with fresh ingredients to create a delicious drink.
So, if you enjoy that mixed drink, then you’re bound to love this one too. Shall we get started?
How to make a bourbon smash?
First, grab a shaker cup and add the simple syrup, fresh mint, and lemon wedges.

Next, use a muddler (or wooden spoon), to crush the lemon and mint.
You want to bruise the mint so it releases all of its oils and crush the lemon so it releases all of its flavor.
Then, pour in the bourbon and add the ice. Place the lid on the shaker and mix everything for 5-7 seconds.
Afterward, add more ice to a 6-8 ounce glass.
Last, strain and pour the drink into the glass. Serve with fresh mint as a garnish.
That’s it, your bourbon smash is done! Kim and I hope you enjoy the cocktail responsibly and wish you all the best 🙂
Recipe Tips and FAQ’s:
- I’ve said this many times before, but I can’t emphasize it enough. When making cocktails, use the best spirits you can afford. Personally, we use middle shelf. It’s affordable and it’s mid-grade.
- Fresh mint is highly recommended for drinks like this one. Extracts and oils just don’t provide the best flavor.
- If you don’t have a shaker cup, then stir the cocktail to mix everything together. You’ll still need to muddle the lemon and mint. But, a shaker cup isn’t a necessary tool.
- Don’t have simple syrup and don’t want to make it. Then use the method I use for mojitos. In place of the syrup use 1-2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Just be sure to muddle (grind) it down with the lemon and mint.
What’s the difference between “on the rocks,” and “neat?”
Simply put, on the rocks means served with ice, and neat means served at room temperature.
Can I make a virgin bourbon smash?
Sure, make the drink as instructed and leave out the bourbon.
What does a bourbon smash taste like?
Brisk, lemony, and refreshing are the words I choose to describe it. Also, think of it like a mojito but using bourbon and lemon instead of rum and lime. So, if you like mojitos, then you may enjoy a bourbon smash.
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Bourbon Smash
Our bourbon smash combines bourbon, fresh mint, and lemon juice to create a delicious cocktail that's perfect for your next dinner party!
Ingredients
- 1 Ounce Simple Syrup
- 8 Fresh Mint Leaves, plus more for garnish
- Half a Large Lemon, cut into wedges
- 2 Ounces Bourbon
- Ice
Instructions
Place simple syrup, mint leaves, and lemon wedges in a cocktail shaker. Use a muddler to crush the lemon wedges and bruise the mint leaves.
Add the bourbon and ice. Shake until cold.
Strain over an ice filled glass, and garnish with additional mint leaves. Serve cold.
Notes
The calories listed are an approximation based on the ingredients in the recipe card and a serving size of one (4-ounce) bourbon smash. Actual calories will vary. For more information and tips, please refer to the post.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 1 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 231Total Fat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 29mgCarbohydrates: 25gFiber: 7gSugar: 14gProtein: 3g
*The calories are an estimate and are based on the ingredients and serving size listed. The calories can vary depending on the brand of product purchased.