Whiskey Smash: Recipe Guide
Whiskey Smash
Equipment
- Equipment Needed: Cocktail shaker, muddler, jigger, strainer, rocks glass
Ingredients
- Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey bourbon or rye work best
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice about half a lemon
- 3/4 oz simple syrup adjust to taste
- 5-6 fresh mint leaves plus more for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Instructions
- Muddle the Mint:
- In a cocktail shaker, add the fresh mint leaves and simple syrup. Use a muddler to gently crush the mint leaves, releasing their oils. Be careful not to over-muddle, as this can make the drink bitter.
- Add Whiskey and Lemon Juice:
- Pour in the whiskey and fresh lemon juice.
- Shake It Up:
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes and secure the lid. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain and Serve:
- Fill a rocks glass with ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
- Garnish:
- Add a sprig of fresh mint for garnish and a lemon wheel, if desired.
- Variations
- Berry Smash: Add fresh berries like raspberries or blackberries while muddling for a fruity twist.
- Spicy Smash: Muddle a slice of jalapeño with the mint for a spicy kick.
- Herbaceous Smash: Experiment with other herbs like basil or thyme for a unique flavor profile.
If you’re looking for a cocktail that’s both refreshing and simple to make, the Whiskey Smash is a fantastic choice. This delightful drink balances the robust flavors of whiskey with fresh herbs and citrus, making it a versatile option for any occasion. From my own personal experience, I can say it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Let me show you how I make this delicious cocktail.
The History Behind the Whiskey Smash
The Whiskey Smash first showed up in cocktail books way back in the late 1800s, and it’s been holding strong ever since. It’s actually a cousin of the Mint Julep, but lighter, brighter, and a bit more laid-back.
Back then, people loved mixing fresh herbs and fruits with booze. The Whiskey Smash was a hit because it was simple: whiskey, lemon, sugar, and mint. Nothing fancy, just clean flavors that worked.
It really started showing up more in bars again during the cocktail revival in the early 2000s, thanks to bartenders digging into old recipes and giving them a fresh spin. The Smash was one of the easy wins, classic, easy to sip, and super refreshing.
So basically, the Whiskey Smash has been around for over a century, proving that a few good ingredients can go a long way. Whether you’re into bourbon or rye, this one’s timeless.
Notes on What to Expect
The Whiskey Smash is an incredibly refreshing drink that showcases the bright flavors of lemon and mint, perfectly complemented by the depth of the whiskey. It’s ideal for summer gatherings or cozy winter evenings. You can easily adjust the sweetness or tartness based on your personal preference.
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 cocktail
- Calories: Approximately 180 calories
- Cost of Ingredients: $10 – $15 (varies by location)
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Cocktail
- Equipment Needed: Cocktail shaker, muddler, jigger, strainer, rocks glass
Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a flavorful #whiskeysmash here.
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work best)
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 3/4 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 5-6 fresh mint leaves (plus more for garnish)
- Ice cubes
Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a flavorful #whiskeysmash here.
Instructions
- Muddle the Mint:
- In a cocktail shaker, add the fresh mint leaves and simple syrup. Use a muddler to gently crush the mint leaves, releasing their oils. Be careful not to over-muddle, as this can make the drink bitter.
- Add Whiskey and Lemon Juice:
- Pour in the whiskey and fresh lemon juice.
- Shake It Up:
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes and secure the lid. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain and Serve:
- Fill a rocks glass with ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
- Garnish:
- Add a sprig of fresh mint for garnish and a lemon wheel, if desired.
Variations
- Berry Smash: Add fresh berries like raspberries or blackberries while muddling for a fruity twist.
- Spicy Smash: Muddle a slice of jalapeño with the mint for a spicy kick.
- Herbaceous Smash: Experiment with other herbs like basil or thyme for a unique flavor profile.
Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a flavorful #whiskeysmash here.
Tips and Substitutions
- Simple Syrup: If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using honey or agave syrup instead of simple syrup. Adjust the amount to taste.
- Whiskey Alternatives: For those who prefer a lighter flavor, you can use a blended whiskey or even a flavored whiskey (like honey whiskey) for a sweeter finish.
- Mint Alternative: If you don’t have fresh mint, you can use mint extract. Use just a drop, as it’s much stronger than fresh herbs.
Nutritional Information
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 180 calories
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
Troubleshooting Tips
- Too Sweet: If the drink is too sweet, add a bit more lemon juice to balance it out.
- Bitter Taste: Over-muddling mint can create a bitter flavor. Be gentle when muddling to avoid this.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make a Whiskey Smash, give it a try at your next gathering or even just for a relaxing evening at home. From my own personal experience, it’s a cocktail that never fails to impress! Cheers!
