Maple Bourbon Smash

Smooth bourbon meets crisp apple and maple for a cozy, lightly spiced sip that’s both refreshing and warm. Perfect for slow evenings and fall gatherings.

Because every drink deserves a beautiful moment.

A golden maple bourbon cocktail served over crushed ice, garnished with an apple slice, rosemary, sage, and star anise against a dark background.

Ingredients

2 ounces bourbon
¾ ounce lemon juice
½ ounce maple syrup
2 thin apple slices (for muddling)
2–3 dashes Angostura or orange bitters (optional)
Club soda or sparkling water, to top
Garnish: apple slice, rosemary, sage, or star anise

Instructions

In a shaker, muddle apple slices with maple syrup and lemon juice.
Add bourbon and bitters (if using), then fill with ice and shake briefly to chill.
Strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed or cubed ice.
Top with a splash of club soda and gently stir.
Garnish with an apple slice, rosemary, sage, or star anise.

Notes from the Bar

Bitters (Optional)

A few dashes of Angostura or orange bitters add depth and spice without overpowering the maple.

Maple Syrup

Use pure maple syrup—Grade A dark gives the richest flavor.

Apples

Choose a crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Glassware

A short rocks glass or lowball showcases the drink’s golden color and crushed ice texture beautifully.

Seasonal Tip

Ideal for fall through early winter, but equally good as a transitional cocktail when the nights start to cool.

Heads up: We may earn a small commission on products we’ve linked here. We only recommend the real-deal favorites from our kitchen.

until next time, keep the spirit high and the company good,

Kevin & Kate

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