Delicious Cranberry Whiskey Sour Recipe
/At the heart of this drink is Let’s Get Lost Dogfish Head Whiskey, a smooth, full-bodied spirit crafted by the iconic Dogfish Head Distilling Co. Known for their innovative craft beer, Dogfish Head brings the same creativity to their whiskey, distilling it from scratch using high-quality ingredients.
With notes of oak, caramel, and a touch of smoke, this whiskey is the perfect base for balancing the bright flavors of fresh citrus and cranberry.
Whether you’re a fan of Dogfish Head’s unique approach or simply love experimenting with cocktails, this recipe is a must-try. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make with just a few fresh ingredients, so you can enjoy a bar-quality drink from the comfort of home.
Table of Contents
Introduction
This Cranberry Whiskey Sour is the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and smooth whiskey warmth.
Ingredients
To make this Cranberry Whiskey Sour, you'll need:
2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey (your choice, but a smooth, caramel-forward whiskey works best)
1 oz fresh lemon juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
1 oz cranberry simple syrup (see note below for how to make it)
1 egg white (optional, but adds a silky texture and beautiful froth)
Ice (for shaking)
Garnish: Fresh cranberries, lemon twist, or a rosemary sprig
How to Make Cranberry Simple Syrup
If you don’t have cranberry simple syrup on hand, here’s how to make it:
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup fresh cranberries, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1/2 cup water.
Simmer over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the sugar dissolves (about 5 minutes).
Strain out the solids and let the syrup cool completely before using.
Instructions
Combine ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the bourbon (or rye), fresh lemon juice, cranberry simple syrup, and egg white (if using).
Dry shake: Shake without ice for about 10-15 seconds to emulsify the egg white (if using).
Add ice and shake again: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for another 15-20 seconds.
Strain and serve: Strain into a chilled coupe glass or rocks glass over a large ice cube.
Garnish: Top with fresh cranberries, a lemon twist, or a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch.
Why You'll Love This Cocktail
Perfectly balanced flavors – Tart cranberry, bright citrus, and smooth whiskey come together in a refreshing, seasonal cocktail.
Festive and beautiful – The deep red color makes this an eye-catching drink for holidays and special occasions.
Easy to make – With just a few ingredients, this cocktail is simple yet sophisticated.
Customizable – Use bourbon for a sweeter, vanilla-like profile or rye for a spicier kick.
Additional Tips
Want it sweeter? Add a little extra cranberry syrup or a dash of maple syrup.
No egg white? You can skip it, but it adds a nice texture. If you're vegan, use aquafaba (chickpea water) as an alternative.
Batch it for a party: Multiply the ingredients by four and mix in a pitcher, then shake individual servings when ready.
Experiment with garnishes: A sugared cranberry skewer or a smoked rosemary sprig can elevate presentation and flavor.
Conclusion
The Cranberry Whiskey Sour is a must-try for whiskey lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. With its tart cranberry twist on the classic whiskey sour, it’s perfect for winter nights, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy evening at home. Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cocktail without whiskey?
Yes! If you prefer a non-whiskey version, try using dark rum or even a high-quality non-alcoholic whiskey substitute.
Can I make this without cranberry simple syrup?
You can substitute with cranberry juice, but it won’t have the same depth of flavor. If using juice, reduce the lemon juice slightly to balance the acidity.
How do I get the best froth without egg whites?
Try shaking with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) for a similar foamy texture without the egg.
What’s the best whiskey to use for this cocktail?
A smooth bourbon (like Buffalo Trace or Woodford Reserve) gives a sweeter, caramel-forward taste, while a spicier rye (like Bulleit Rye) adds more complexity.