As a bartender, I know that whiskey is one of the most popular spirits among drinkers. Its rich, complex flavor and smooth finish make it a go-to for many.
But what if you're looking for something a little different than simply sipping on a neat pour? That's where easy whiskey cocktails come in.
The art of mixing whiskey with other ingredients to create a delicious and refreshing drink is a skill that every bartender should master.
Whether you're looking for a classic cocktail or something more modern, there is a whiskey cocktail recipe out there for everyone. And the best part? Many of these recipes are incredibly simple to make.
From the smoky sweetness of a whiskey sour to the bold flavors of an old fashioned, easy whiskey cocktails offer a world of possibilities for those looking to explore the world of mixed drinks.
And with the rise of craft distilleries and new whiskey brands hitting the market every day, there has never been a better time to experiment with different types of whiskey and mixers.
In this blog post, we'll be exploring some of the best easy whiskey cocktail recipes out there.
From the tried-and-true classics to exciting new concoctions, we'll be sharing tips and tricks for mastering the art of whiskey mixology. So grab your shaker and let's get started!
1. Three Wisemen Shot
The Three Wisemen Shot is a potent and no-frills cocktail that is not for the faint-hearted. Made with equal parts of Jim Beam Bourbon, Jack Daniels Whiskey, and Johnnie Walker Scotch, this shot is not only strong but also keto-friendly with zero carbs.
While the origin of the recipe is unknown, it is believed to have been created by a creative bartender. The cocktail has several variations, including adding tequila or absinthe, but the classic version remains a favorite among whiskey lovers. If you're looking for a drink that packs a punch, the Three Wisemen Shot is definitely worth a try.
2. Blueberry Whiskey Spritzers
The Blueberry Whiskey Spritzer is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail bursting with summer flavors. It's made with fresh blueberries, lemon juice, and a splash of club soda or tonic water.
The homemade blueberry simple syrup adds a sweet and colorful twist to the drink. It's a versatile cocktail that can be adjusted to suit your taste buds. Perfect for summer entertaining or a refreshing drink on a hot day.
3. Bourbon Whiskey Highball
The Bourbon Whiskey Highball is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. It is a simple yet refreshing drink that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is a template that can be customized to create a variety of delicious cocktails.
The exact origins of the whiskey highball are unclear, but it has been around since the late nineteenth century. The drink gained popularity in New York City and beyond, and it is still enjoyed by many today. The Bourbon Whiskey Highball is a must-try for anyone who loves whiskey cocktails.
4. Whiskey Sour Cocktail
The Whiskey Sour Cocktail is a classic cocktail made with whiskey, lemon, and simple syrup. This easy-to-make cocktail has a playful twist on the original recipe, making it a must-try for whiskey lovers. The homemade sour mix adds a unique flavor to the cocktail, making it stand out from other whiskey-based drinks.
The garnish of maraschino cherries adds a pop of color and sweetness to the drink. Whether you're a fan of whiskey or not, this cocktail is sure to impress with its balanced flavors and smooth finish. So, gather your ingredients and give this delicious cocktail a try at your next party.
5. Whiskey Ginger Cocktail
The Whiskey Ginger Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for any occasion. With just three simple ingredients – whiskey, ginger ale, and a fresh lime wedge – this cocktail is a breeze to prepare.
Whether you're a whiskey aficionado or a newcomer to the spirit, the Whiskey Ginger Cocktail is a great choice for anyone looking for a delicious and refreshing drink. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why this cocktail is a favorite among whiskey lovers everywhere?
6. Perfect Manhattan Cocktail
The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a classic drink that every whiskey lover should try. This cocktail is made with bourbon, vermouth, bitters and cherry juice, and is garnished with cherries. It's easy to make and perfect for enjoying with friends.
Legend has it that it was invented in the 1870s by Dr. Ian Marshall at the Manhattan Club in New York City. Since then, it has become a fashionable drink that is loved by many. If you're looking for a sophisticated and easy-to-make cocktail, the Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a great choice.
7. Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that has been around for ages. It's a simple and refreshing drink that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of lemon juice, sugar, and whiskey creates a sweet and tangy flavor that is sure to please any whiskey drinker. The addition of lime juice adds a nice twist to the traditional recipe.
The drink is traditionally served over ice and garnished with an orange slice, lemon rind, and maraschino cherry. The Whiskey Sour is a great choice for those who are new to whiskey and want to try something easy and delicious. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a good cocktail.
8. Blushing Whiskey Sour
Blushing Whiskey Sour is a perfect cocktail recipe for those who love whiskey and blackberries. This girly twist on a traditional whiskey sour is a beautiful pink color that is perfect for a girl's night in, St. Patrick's Day, Easter, or any spring gathering.
The cocktail is made with a combination of lemon, simple syrup, whiskey or bourbon, and blackberries, which give it a unique flavor and a refreshing taste. It's easy to make and can be served on the rocks, garnished with more blackberries. If you're looking for a delicious and easy whiskey cocktail recipe, Blushing Whiskey Sour is definitely worth a try.
9. Irish Maid Cocktail
The Irish Maid Cocktail is a refreshing and floral whiskey cocktail that is perfect for any occasion, especially St. Patrick's Day. Made with cucumber, lemon juice, and St. Germain elderflower liqueur, this cocktail is a great choice for those who are not regular whiskey drinkers.
It is light and easy to drink, making it a great option for those who want to try something new. The Irish Maid Cocktail is easy to make and can be garnished with cucumber slices to add a touch of elegance to the drink. If you're looking for a tasty and refreshing whiskey cocktail, the Irish Maid is definitely worth a try.
10. Sparkling Honey Rye Whiskey Cocktail
The Sparkling Honey Rye Whiskey Cocktail is a delightful combination of rye whiskey, honey, lemon juice, and sparkling wine. This easy-to-make cocktail is perfect for parties and weddings. The spiciness of the rye whiskey blends perfectly with the sweetness of honey and the tartness of lemon juice.
The addition of sparkling wine adds a refreshing fizz to the drink. You can use different types of sparkling wine, such as champagne, prosecco, or cava, to suit your taste. The cocktail is best served in a Collins or rocks glass with a lemon wedge garnish. If you're a fan of whiskey and sparkling wine, this cocktail is a must-try.
11. Holiday Whiskey Fizz
The Holiday Whiskey Fizz is a festive and refreshing cocktail made with Sagamore Spirits rye whiskey, cranberry syrup, and lime juice, topped with club soda and garnished with rosemary and fresh cranberries.
Sagamore Spirit uses locally sourced rye and pure, naturally filtered spring water to create a balanced and sippable whiskey that is perfect for cocktails. The addition of fresh herbs like rosemary adds a festive touch to any holiday gathering. Give the Holiday Whiskey Fizz a try for a crowd-pleasing cocktail that is easy to make and sure to impress.
12. Rosemary and Honey Whiskey Cocktail
The Rosemary and Honey Whiskey Cocktail is a must-try for whiskey lovers. This cocktail combines the classic flavors of whiskey and bitters with an infused rosemary and honey simple syrup. The result is a deliciously balanced drink that is both sweet and savory.
The use of rye whiskey adds a spicy kick that perfectly complements the herbal notes of the rosemary. This cocktail is easy to make and is sure to impress any crowd. If you're looking for a unique twist on a classic whiskey cocktail, the Rosemary and Honey Whiskey Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
13. Orange Frost Cocktail
The Orange Frost Cocktail is a refreshing and festive holiday drink made with Sagamore Spirit rye whiskey, lemon and orange juices, and maple syrup. The rye grain used in the whiskey gives it a warming quality that is perfect for the holiday season.
It's easy to make and can be served as a make-your-own cocktail bar at your next party. If you're looking for a delicious and easy whiskey cocktail to serve at your next party, the Orange Frost Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
14. Peach Whiskey Cocktail
The Peach Whiskey Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer night. Made with peach-flavored whiskey, frozen peaches, peach bitters, and seltzer, this cocktail is light and cool with a fizzy finish. The frozen peaches keep the drink nice and cold without watering it down, and the peach skewers make for a fun and unique touch.
The Leopold Bros. Georgia Peach Flavored Whiskey and Rocky Mountain Peach Whiskey are two great options for the peach-flavored whiskey, and the peach bitters add an extra layer of flavor. Overall, the Peach Whiskey Cocktail is a delicious and refreshing drink that is sure to impress your guests.
15. Meyer Lemon Whiskey Sour
The Meyer Lemon Whiskey Sour is a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail. Made with fresh Meyer lemon juice, this cocktail has a unique flavor that sets it apart from other whiskey sours. The addition of lime juice and simple syrup balances out the tartness of the lemon, creating a perfectly balanced cocktail.
This batch cocktail is perfect for entertaining, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time behind the bar. The Meyer Lemon Whiskey Sour is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and easy whiskey cocktail recipe.
16. Whiskey Hibiscus Cocktail
The Whiskey Hibiscus Cocktail is a perfect drink for those who want to transition from summer to fall. This cocktail is a perfect balance of floral and bold flavors, with only five ingredients, including whiskey, hibiscus tea, and honey. Local Hive Honey™ is used in this cocktail to give it a unique flavor.
The honey is 100% pure, raw, and unfiltered natural honey, which enhances the taste of the cocktail. The cocktail is easy to make and is perfect for happy hours. The Whiskey Hibiscus Cocktail is a must-try for whiskey lovers who want to try something new and exciting.
17. Spiced Whiskey Cider
Spiced Whiskey Cider is a perfect fall cocktail that combines the warmth of whiskey with the taste of apple cider. Made with Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey, lime juice, and simple syrup, this cocktail is an excellent choice for any occasion.
The unique flavor of Sagamore Spirit Rye Whiskey, made from a mash of at least 51% rye grain, sets this cocktail apart from others. The cocktail is not too sweet and not too liquory, making it a balanced and great option for sipping.
18. Cranberry Whiskey Sour
The Cranberry Whiskey Sour is a festive and easy twist on the classic Whiskey Sour cocktail. Made with whiskey, lemon juice, cranberry juice, and sugar, this cocktail is perfect for any occasion, whether you're serving one or a crowd. The festive color of the drink makes it perfect for the holiday season, but it's also a great drink to enjoy year-round.
The recipe is easy to follow and the ingredients are easy to find, making it a great choice for those who want to impress their guests with a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail. If you're a fan of whiskey cocktails, you definitely don't want to miss out on this one!
19. Blue Whiskey Cocktail
The Blue Whiskey Cocktail is a refreshing mix of whiskey, Hypnotiq, fresh blueberries, and Blue Curacao, topped off with Sprite for a hint of bubbles.
The blue color and citrus twist of the Blue Curacao make it an eye-catching and flavorful drink. It can be made into a slush-style mixed drink or a non-alcoholic version. Give it a try for a fun and delicious twist on your usual whiskey drink.
20. Old Pal Cocktail
The Old Pal Cocktail is a classic whiskey cocktail that is simple yet sophisticated. Made with only three ingredients – rye whiskey, Campari, and dry vermouth – it's a perfect example of how a few quality ingredients can create a delicious and complex cocktail. The spiciness of the rye whiskey is balanced by the bitterness of the Campari, while the dry vermouth adds a brightness to the drink.
The cocktail is typically garnished with an orange twist, which adds a nice citrus note to the mix. If you're a fan of Negronis or Boulevardiers, you'll definitely want to give the Old Pal a try. It's a great cocktail to sip on a cozy night in or to serve at a dinner party.
21. Strawberry Whiskey Smash
The Strawberry Whiskey Smash is a refreshing and perfectly balanced cocktail that is easy to make and is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is inspired by Dale DeGroff's version, which he served at the Rainbow Room in the 80s. The recipe calls for any whiskey of your choice, but Jameson is recommended for its smoothness and perfect price point.
The cocktail is garnished with mint and a strawberry, adding a touch of freshness to the drink. The recipe can also be made with gin, vodka, or rum for those who prefer a different spirit. Overall, the Strawberry Whiskey Smash is a must-try cocktail that is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
22. Classic Whiskey Sour
The Classic Whiskey Sour is a timeless cocktail that is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients. Made with whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar, it provides a rich and complex flavor with a bright and tangy note.
Its simplicity and versatility make it a great choice for any whiskey lover, and its refreshing taste is perfect for any season.
23. Bourbon Old Fashioned
The Bourbon Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail made with bourbon, sugar, bitters, orange, and a cherry. The recipe has been extensively tested to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
The use of clear ice cubes and a combination of bitters further enhances the flavor profile of the cocktail. Overall, the Bourbon Old Fashioned is a must-try cocktail for whiskey lovers looking for a sophisticated and flavorful drink.
24. Homemade Honey Whiskey
Looking for a unique and easy whiskey cocktail recipe to impress your guests? Look no further than Homemade Honey Whiskey. This sweet and smooth liqueur is perfect for sipping on the rocks or using as a base for hot toddies and other cocktails. Made with just whiskey and honey, it's easy to make and customize to your taste.
Use your favorite whiskey and honey varieties to create a personalized flavor profile. Whether you're feeling under the weather or just want a cozy drink for a chilly evening, Homemade Honey Whiskey is the perfect choice. Give it a try and impress your friends with your mixology skills.
25. Ginger Peach Whiskey Cocktail
The Ginger Peach Whiskey Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. With only three ingredients, this cocktail is a breeze to make and has a crisp, slightly autumnal flavor that is sure to delight your taste buds.
The combination of peach nectar, whiskey, and ginger ale creates a unique and flavorful drink that is perfect for sipping on a cozy night in or enjoying with friends and family during the holiday season. Whether you're a whiskey lover or just looking for a new cocktail to try, the Ginger Peach Whiskey Cocktail is definitely worth a taste.
26. Green Tea Shot
The Green Tea Shot is a refreshing whiskey-based cocktail that is perfect for parties and gatherings. Despite its name, the drink does not actually contain green tea, but instead is made with Jameson Irish Whiskey, Peach Schnapps, and Sour Mix. The combination of these ingredients creates a sweet and sour taste with a fruity flavor that is sure to please any whiskey lover.
The drink is typically served in a shot glass and can be topped off with a splash of Sprite, lemon-lime soda, or lemonade. While the Green Tea Shot may not be the healthiest drink option, it is a fun and easy cocktail that is perfect for any occasion.
27. Manhattan Cocktail
The Manhattan Cocktail is a timeless classic made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. It's a smooth and aromatic blend of flavors with a touch of sweetness that's perfect for whiskey lovers.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be enjoyed on any occasion, from a quiet night at home to a fancy night out. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a classic and sophisticated cocktail.
28. Peanut Butter Jelly Cocktail
The Peanut Butter Jelly Cocktail is a unique and delicious twist on the classic Old Fashioned. Made with peanut butter whiskey and a concord grape simple syrup, this cocktail is sweet and nutty with a fruity finish. It's the perfect drink for those who love the combination of peanut butter and jelly.
While it may sound like an odd pairing, the flavors work surprisingly well together and make for a memorable cocktail experience. If you're looking for a fun and easy whiskey cocktail to try at home, the Peanut Butter Jelly Cocktail is definitely worth a taste.
29. Whiskey Lemonade
Whiskey Lemonade is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for summer evenings. This grown-up version of a childhood favorite is a mix of lemonade, whiskey, and a splash of soda, making it a simple yet delicious drink that is sure to quench your thirst. Sipping on this cocktail while sitting on your porch or patio is the perfect way to unwind after a long day.
The combination of sweet and tart flavors from the lemonade and the smoothness of the whiskey make for a delightful taste that is sure to leave you wanting more. If you're a fan of whiskey and looking for an easy cocktail to make at home, Whiskey Lemonade is definitely worth a try.
30. Sidecar
The Sidecar is a classic cocktail with a French origin that has stood the test of time. Made with just three ingredients – cognac, Cointreau, and fresh lemon juice – this cocktail is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The exact ratio of ingredients varies depending on who you ask, but that's part of the fun – experimenting to find your perfect blend.
Whether you believe it was invented in Paris or London, one thing is for sure – the Sidecar has been a beloved cocktail for almost a century. If you're looking for a simple yet sophisticated whiskey cocktail, the Sidecar should definitely be on your list to try.
31. Boulevardier Cocktail
The Boulevardier Cocktail is a timeless classic that is perfect for those who enjoy robust and woodsy flavors. This whiskey cocktail is easy to make and has a rebellious heritage that adds to its charm. It uses Campari, an Italian bitter liqueur, which gives it a complex cherry undertone.
The Boulevardier can be served straight up in a Coupe or on the rocks in a low ball glass. It's an impressive drink that is perfect for impressing a date or for a nightcap after a long day. If you enjoy Manhattans or Negronis, then this cocktail is definitely worth trying. So, grab your favorite whiskey and Campari and give the Boulevardier a try!
32. Pomegranate Side Car Cocktail
The Pomegranate Side Car Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic Sidecar cocktail. Made with pomegranate juice, bourbon or whiskey, Cointreau, and lemon juice, this cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Its deep garnet color adds to its visual appeal, making it a great addition to any cocktail party.
The history of the Sidecar cocktail adds to the charm of this drink, making it a conversation starter. If you're looking for a unique and easy whiskey cocktail recipe to impress your guests, the Pomegranate Side Car Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
33. Boston Sour Cocktail
The Boston Sour Cocktail is a classic whiskey sour with a twist. This easy-to-make cocktail is made with whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white, which gives it a creamy and smooth texture. The cocktail is named after the city of Boston, where egg white was first introduced as an ingredient to smooth out the harshness of cheap whiskey in 1892.
The Boston Sour Cocktail is a perfect drink for whiskey lovers who enjoy a sour and sweet taste. The addition of egg white makes it a unique and interesting cocktail to try. If you're looking to impress your guests with a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail, the Boston Sour Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
