Classic Whiskey Sour Recipe – Easy & Delicious Cocktail Guide

The Whiskey Sour is one of the most beloved classic cocktails, known for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and smooth whiskey flavors. This timeless drink dates back to the 19th century and remains a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts today. With a simple yet elegant combination of whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup, the Whiskey Sour delivers a delightful tartness complemented by the rich warmth of whiskey. Often garnished with a cherry and an orange slice, this cocktail is ideal for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to sophisticated celebrations.

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In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect Whiskey Sour, including ingredients, instructions, preparation time, nutrition, and the necessary equipment. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a home bartender, this recipe will ensure a consistently delicious Whiskey Sour every time.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Active Time: 5 minutes
• Resting Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Beverage/Cocktail
• Servings: 1
• Calories: ~175 per serving

Equipment Needed

To make a perfect Whiskey Sour, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger (or measuring tool)
• Strainer
• Rocks glass or coupe glass
• Ice cubes
• Citrus juicer (optional but recommended)

Ingredients

• 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 ratio of sugar to water)
• 1 egg white (optional, for a smooth, frothy texture)
• Ice cubes
• Garnish: Maraschino cherry and orange slice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Squeeze fresh lemon juice and measure all ingredients accurately using a jigger.
   • If using egg white, separate the egg and reserve the white.
2. Dry Shake (if using egg white):
   • In a cocktail shaker, add whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white.
   • Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds without ice. This helps create a rich foam.
3. Add Ice and Shake Again:
   • Fill the shaker with ice and shake again for another 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
4. Strain into Glass:
   • Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice or serve straight up in a coupe glass.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with a maraschino cherry and a fresh orange slice.
   • Optionally, add a few drops of bitters for extra depth of flavor.
6. Enjoy:
   • Sip and savor the perfectly balanced flavors of your homemade Whiskey Sour.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~175 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 1g (if using egg white)
• Fat: 0g
• Alcohol Content: Varies based on whiskey proof

Tips for the Best Whiskey Sour

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice lacks the fresh, bright flavor needed for a great Whiskey Sour.
• Choose a Good Whiskey: Bourbon provides a sweeter, smoother taste, while rye whiskey adds a spicier kick.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter drink, increase the simple syrup slightly.
• Shake Well: A vigorous shake ensures the perfect blend and proper dilution.
• Try Different Garnishes: Play around with cocktail cherries, lemon twists, or even a dash of cinnamon for variation.

Variations to Try

• New York Sour: Float a small amount of red wine on top for a bold twist.
• Maple Whiskey Sour: Substitute maple syrup for simple syrup for a rich, autumnal flavor.
• Honey Whiskey Sour: Use honey syrup instead of simple syrup for a floral sweetness.
• Spicy Whiskey Sour: Add a dash of cayenne or muddle a jalapeño slice for a fiery kick.

Conclusion

The Whiskey Sour Recipe is an essential cocktail for any home bartender. Its delightful blend of whiskey, citrus, and sweetness makes it a refreshing yet sophisticated drink that stands the test of time. Whether you prefer the classic version or an exciting variation, this cocktail is easy to master and sure to impress. So grab your shaker, mix up a batch, and enjoy a taste of cocktail history in every sip!

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Ashley Doyle

I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.