Vanilla Bourbon Sour: Recipe Guide
Vanilla Bourbon Sour
Equipment
- Equipment Needed: Cocktail shaker, strainer, measuring jigger, glass (preferably rocks or coupe)
Ingredients
- Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon
- 3/4 oz Fresh lemon juice about half a lemon
- 1/2 oz Simple syrup or to taste
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract or a vanilla bean if you’re feeling fancy
- Ice cubes
- Lemon wheel or cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Step-by-Step Method
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Fresh lemon juice is key here for a bright flavor, so if you have lemons, juice them right before mixing.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and vanilla extract. If you’re using a vanilla bean, scrape the seeds into the shaker.
- Add Ice: Fill the shaker with ice cubes. This will chill the cocktail and dilute it slightly, which is essential for balancing the flavors.
- Shake It Up: Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This action not only chills the mixture but also helps incorporate the vanilla flavor throughout.
- Strain and Serve: Using a strainer, pour the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice. For a smoother presentation, you can serve it straight up in a coupe glass.
- Garnish: Add a lemon wheel or a cherry on top for that finishing touch.
- Variations
- Sweetness Adjustment: You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup based on your preference.
- Flavor Infusion: For a more complex flavor, consider infusing the simple syrup with herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Substitutions for Dietary Needs:
- For a lower-calorie version: Use a sugar substitute in place of simple syrup.
- For a non-alcoholic option: Substitute the bourbon with a non-alcoholic whiskey or a combination of apple cider and a splash of vanilla extract.
A drink that perfectly balances the warmth of bourbon with the creamy sweetness of vanilla. This drink is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a great choice for various occasions from casual gatherings to more elegant soirées. Here’s a detailed guide to help you craft this tasty cocktail, complete with variations and tips to suit different dietary needs.
Behind the History of the Vanilla Bourbon Sour
The classic Whiskey Sour has been around since the 1800s, and like most great cocktails, it started out simple, just spirit, citrus, and sugar. It was all about balance. Sailors and bartenders alike appreciated it for its refreshing taste and easy-to-find ingredients. But over time, the classic sour evolved. That’s where the Vanilla Bourbon Sour steps in.
This version takes the timeless Whiskey Sour and smooths it out with a warm, rich twist. The vanilla isn’t just there for sweetness, it adds depth. It softens the sharpness of the lemon and brings out the mellow notes in the bourbon. You still get that citrusy bite and boozy kick, but now it’s paired with a soft, almost dessert-like finish.
What makes this drink stand out is how it blends the old with something a little new. It’s not a modern invention that came out of nowhere, it’s more like a remix. Bartenders started playing with vanilla as a flavor enhancer in the early 2000s, especially as bourbon itself started making a big comeback in bars. People were looking for drinks that had both character and comfort, and this cocktail fit that vibe perfectly.
From my own personal experience, this drink is always a conversation starter. Whether it’s served at a wedding, dinner party, or quiet night in, it just feels a little more special than your average cocktail. It respects its roots, but it’s not afraid to show off a bit of personality.
Notes on What to Expect
When making a Vanilla Bourbon Sour, expect a beautifully balanced cocktail that highlights the rich notes of bourbon complemented by the zesty brightness of lemon and a hint of sweet vanilla. The result is a refreshing drink with a silky mouthfeel, perfect for sipping on a warm evening or serving to guests.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon
- 3/4 oz Fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 1/2 oz Simple syrup (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract (or a vanilla bean if you’re feeling fancy)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon wheel or cherry (for garnish)
Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making #VanillaBourbonSour here
Quick Meal Facts
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Time to Stand: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Ease of Cooking: Easy
- Servings: 1
- Calories: Approximately 220 calories
- Cost of Ingredients: $8 – $12, depending on the brand of bourbon
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Beverage
- Equipment Needed: Cocktail shaker, strainer, measuring jigger, glass (preferably rocks or coupe)
Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making #VanillaBourbonSour here
Step-by-Step Method
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Fresh lemon juice is key here for a bright flavor, so if you have lemons, juice them right before mixing.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and vanilla extract. If you’re using a vanilla bean, scrape the seeds into the shaker.
- Add Ice: Fill the shaker with ice cubes. This will chill the cocktail and dilute it slightly, which is essential for balancing the flavors.
- Shake It Up: Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This action not only chills the mixture but also helps incorporate the vanilla flavor throughout.
- Strain and Serve: Using a strainer, pour the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice. For a smoother presentation, you can serve it straight up in a coupe glass.
- Garnish: Add a lemon wheel or a cherry on top for that finishing touch.
Variations
- Sweetness Adjustment: You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup based on your preference.
- Flavor Infusion: For a more complex flavor, consider infusing the simple syrup with herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Substitutions for Dietary Needs:
- For a lower-calorie version: Use a sugar substitute in place of simple syrup.
- For a non-alcoholic option: Substitute the bourbon with a non-alcoholic whiskey or a combination of apple cider and a splash of vanilla extract.
Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making #VanillaBourbonSour here
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 0g
Troubleshooting Tips
- Too Sour: If the cocktail is too sour for your liking, add a bit more simple syrup to balance it out.
- Overly Sweet: If it’s too sweet, add a splash more lemon juice to cut the sweetness.
- Vanilla Flavor Too Strong: If the vanilla flavor is overpowering, reduce the amount used next time or omit it completely for a classic bourbon sour.
Final Thoughts
From my own personal experience, this Vanilla Bourbon Sour is a cocktail that never disappoints. It’s easy to make, and you can customize it to fit your taste and dietary needs. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a refreshing drink that you’ve crafted yourself. Cheers.
