The rich, smoky flavor of bourbon is a favorite among many cocktail enthusiasts. It's a drink that has been enjoyed for centuries, and the popularity of this classic liquor shows no signs of slowing down.
Bourbon is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed in many different ways, but one of the most popular ways to enjoy it is in a cocktail.
If you're a fan of bourbon, then you're in luck because there are dozens of different cocktails that feature this delicious liquor.
From classic drinks like the Old Fashioned to more modern creations like the Smoked Bourbon Sour, there is no shortage of fantastic recipes to try.
One of the most exciting trends in the world of bourbon cocktails is the focus on smoked bourbon. This unique flavor profile is achieved by adding smoke to the bourbon, which can be done in a variety of ways.
Some bartenders use a smoking gun to infuse the bourbon with smoke, while others use wood chips or even charred oak barrels to get the job done.
No matter how it's done, the result is a drink that is rich, complex, and full of flavor. If you're a fan of bourbon cocktails and you haven't tried a smoked bourbon drink yet, then you're missing out on one of the most exciting trends in the world of cocktails.
So, sit back, relax, and let's take a look at some of the best smoked bourbon cocktail recipes out there.
1. Smoked Manhattan Cocktail
The Smoked Manhattan Cocktail is a must-try for any bourbon lover. The combination of the smoky flavor and the notes from the wood bourbon barrel make for a sublime taste experience. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to take their classic bourbon-based drink to the next level.
The best part is, you don't even need any fancy equipment to make it. The recipe is easy to follow and requires only a few ingredients. The Smoked Manhattan Cocktail is a perfect drink for those who want to impress their guests with a unique and flavorful cocktail.
2. Smoked Old Fashioned
The Smoked Old Fashioned is a must-try cocktail for any serious bourbon drinker. This high-proof, smoked bourbon cocktail is a modern twist on a timeless classic. The use of smoky, spicy bitters adds a dash of intrigue and elevates the flavors for an unforgettable mixed drink.
The cinnamon stick smoke infusion adds a unique touch, making this cocktail a true standout. Best made with a barrel-strength bourbon or rye, this cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy bold and complex flavors. Served over perfectly clear ice cubes, the Smoked Old Fashioned is a perfect choice for any occasion.
3. Smoked Old Thyme Lemonade
The Smoked Old Thyme Lemonade is a unique twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. This recipe replaces the traditional sugar with a thyme-infused simple syrup and swaps out the orange bitters for fresh lemon juice. The addition of wood chips smoked with the Aged and Charred Cocktail Smoker Kit elevates the flavors and adds a smoothness to the drink.
The use of fresh ingredients, such as the thyme and lemon, enhances the overall taste of the cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with new recipes and flavors. If you're looking for a Smoked Bourbon Cocktail that packs a punch, the Smoked Old Thyme Lemonade is definitely worth a try.
4. Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail is a classic drink with a modern twist. Made with smoked, muddled cherries, smoked cherry simple syrup, Anastoga bitters, and campfire whiskey, this drink is perfect for those who love a subtle smoky flavor in their cocktails.
The natural warmth of the whiskey pairs seamlessly with the subtle hint of smoke, only softened by the sweetness of seasonal cherries. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful drink, then the Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
5. Smoked Maple Old Fashioned
The Smoked Maple Old Fashioned is a perfect blend of bold and spicy 100% rye whisky, sweet maple syrup, and smoky applewood flavor. The addition of bitters adds depth to the cocktail and lends a subtle orange undertone without overpowering the sharp edge of the whisky.
The drink evolves over time as the ice cube melts, making it a perfect sipping cocktail on a warm summer night. This cocktail is a great way to showcase domestic ingredients and is sure to impress any cocktail aficionado.
6. Smoked Cinnamon Apple Cider Bourbon Smash Cocktail
The Smoked Cinnamon Apple Cider Bourbon Smash Cocktail is a perfect drink to snuggle up with on the couch next to the fire. The cocktail is made with fresh apple cider and bold smokey bourbon, providing a crispy sweetness paired with a little charred toasty flavors. The homemade cinnamon agave simple syrup brings this cocktail from wow to WOW!
The addition of the smoky cinnamon and thyme adds a little elevated twist to the drink that will make you feel like a pro bartender whipped it up just for you. The smoky flavor is an easy way to add a little complex flavor to the drink. Overall, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a good bourbon cocktail with a twist.
7. The Clove and Cider
"The Clove and Cider" is a smoked bourbon cocktail that embraces the flavors of fall. Made with fresh apple cider, sweet and spicy bourbon, and a hint of baking spice from clove syrup, this cocktail is smoked with a cinnamon stick for a great smoky flavor.
The cinnamon smoke pairs well with the apple cider, bourbon, and amaro, adding an aromatic quality to the drink. Perfect for sipping around a bonfire or for a special occasion, this cocktail is sophisticated and intriguing, highlighting apple cider and giving cozy feelings of fall and winter.
8. Smokey Old Fashioned
The Smokey Old Fashioned is a unique and earthy twist on the classic whisky cocktail. With a complex flavor profile that includes tobacco bitters and a light citrus kick from fresh orange juice, this cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a bold and smoky taste.
While the recipe calls for Johnnie Walker Black Label, any high-quality whiskey will do. What sets this cocktail apart is its smoky flavor, which is achieved without the need for a smoke gun. If you're looking for a cocktail that's easy to make at home and offers a unique taste experience, the Smokey Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
9. Smoked Manhattan With Cinnamon
The Smoked Manhattan with Cinnamon is a perfect twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail. This cocktail is a combination of bourbon, sweet vermouth, bitters, maraschino cherry syrup, and smoked cinnamon, giving it a unique and rich flavor. The warmth of the cinnamon is amplified by burning the cinnamon stick to create smoke, which adds a layer of complexity to the cocktail.
The sweet vermouth and the maraschino cherry syrup balance out the bitterness of the bourbon, making it a perfect after-dinner drink. This cocktail is easy to make and will impress your guests with its smoky and spicy flavors. If you are looking for a unique and delicious cocktail, the Smoked Manhattan with Cinnamon is a must-try.
10. Smoky Cherry Bourbon Smash
The Smoky Cherry Bourbon Smash is a perfect cocktail for the end of summer. This cocktail is made with bourbon soaked smoky cherries and smoky cherry simple syrup that adds a unique smoky flavor to the drink.
The sweetness of the cherries compliments the smokiness of the bourbon, making it a perfect balance of flavors. The cocktail is perfect for a single shake or a pitcher of bourbon smashes. If you are looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try, the Smoky Cherry Bourbon Smash is definitely worth a try.
11. Smoky Whiskey Mule
The Smoky Whiskey Mule is a refreshing and unique cocktail that is perfect for whiskey lovers. Made with ginger beer, whiskey, lemon juice, and candied bacon, this cocktail has a smoky flavor that is sure to impress. The recipe was inspired by the bartender's father, who is a big fan of Jack Daniel's.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be enjoyed on the rocks or neat. The longer the bacon and whiskey mixture steeps, the more smoky flavor it will have. This cocktail is perfect for summer and is sure to be a hit at any party or gathering.
12. Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash
The Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash is a perfect transitional cocktail that combines the essence of juicy late summer fruit with a smoky grilled edge, infused with spicy autumnal warmth. The cocktail is made with grilled Okanagan peaches, Smoked Maple Bourbon, 100% pure Canadian maple syrup, fresh thyme, spicy ginger beer, fresh lemon juice, a splash of soda water, and a dash of bitters.
The combination of these ingredients creates a unique and delicious flavor that is sure to impress both bourbon lovers and skeptics alike. The cocktail is served over ice and garnished with grilled peach slices, a sprig of fresh thyme, and edible flowers. If you're looking for a cozy, seasonal flavor, the Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash is a must-try cocktail.
13. Smoked Orange Old Fashioned
The Smoked Orange Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail with a twist that is sure to impress. This cocktail is made with orange bitters and a touch of smoke, giving it a unique depth of flavor. The smoky essence from the flamed orange peel adds a delightful scent to the cocktail, making it a perfect choice for a cold winter night.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be enjoyed at a party or after a long day at work. It is a must-try for anyone who loves a strong, spirit-forward cocktail with a little bitterness. So, if you're looking for a fun twist on a classic old fashioned, the Smoked Orange Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
14. Perfect Manhattan Cocktail
The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a classic drink that every whiskey lover should try. This cocktail is a combination of Bourbon, cherry, bitters, and vermouth, making it a perfect blend of flavors. It's easy to make and is a great drink to enjoy with friends.
Legend has it that it was invented in the 1870s by Dr. Ian Marshall at the Manhattan Club in New York City for a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill. Since then, it has become a fashionable drink that is loved by many. If you're a fan of whiskey and bourbon, then this cocktail is a must-try. So, why not give it a shot and see for yourself why it's always a whiskey lover's favorite cocktail?
15. Manhattan
The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. It is a simple yet sophisticated drink that is perfect for any occasion. This particular recipe adds a twist to the classic Manhattan by using brown sugar simple syrup, which gives the drink a sweet and smoky flavor.
The combination of bourbon, vermouth, bitters, orange peel, and cherries creates a well-balanced cocktail that is sure to please any bourbon lover. The dark cherries and bright orange slices give the drink a spooky appearance, making it perfect for Halloween. Overall, the Manhattan is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a delicious and easy-to-make drink that is sure to impress.
16. The Boulevardier Cocktail
The Boulevardier Cocktail is a unique twist on the classic Negroni, with bourbon taking the place of gin. This cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and smoky flavors, making it a refreshing and complex drink that is sure to impress. The addition of smoke takes this cocktail to the next level, infusing it with a rich, smoky flavor that is both bold and sophisticated.
The Boulevardier is a French word that means "one who frequents boulevards," and this cocktail certainly lives up to its name, adding a touch of sophistication to any occasion. If you are looking for a Smoked Bourbon Cocktail recipe that is sure to impress, then look no further than The Boulevardier.
17. Bourbon Old Fashioned
The Bourbon Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail made of bourbon, sugar, bitters, orange, and a cherry. The Minimalist Baker team did extensive testing to perfect this recipe, trying different sugars, bourbons, cherries, oranges, and bitters to find the best combination.
The result is a complex and balanced cocktail that is sure to impress. Overall, the Bourbon Old Fashioned is a must-try for anyone looking for a high-quality cocktail that is easy to make at home.
18. Smokey Sweet Tea Old Fashioned
The Smokey Sweet Tea Old Fashioned is a modern twist on a classic cocktail that is sure to impress. Made with High West Campfire Whiskey and Yaupon Tea Simple Syrup, this cocktail has a unique smoky and sweet flavor that will leave you wanting more. Yaupon tea, a type of holly native to Florida, adds complexity to the cocktail with its natural caffeine and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea is sustainably grown and harvested in the forests along the coastline, making this cocktail not only delicious but also environmentally conscious. The Smokey Sweet Tea Old Fashioned is a must-try for anyone looking for a new and exciting cocktail experience.
19. Vanilla Bean-Orange-Infused Bourbon
One of the standout recipes in the world of Smoked Bourbon Cocktails is the Vanilla Bean-Orange-Infused Bourbon. This cocktail is infused with the flavors of vanilla bean and orange, which adds a little sweetness with a citrusy kick to the bourbon. The infusion process takes a little patience, but it's an easy process that anyone can do.
The cocktail can be used in the same way as regular bourbon, but it pairs beautifully with desserts, especially those with a creamy texture and burned sugar like creme brûlée. It is also perfect for spiced desserts, like a big slice of glazed gingerbread. The Vanilla Bean-Orange-Infused Bourbon is a must-try for anyone who loves a good bourbon cocktail.
