20 Best Bourbon Cocktails You Can Drink Tonight
You don't have to be a pro bartender to mix 'em up.
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Enjoying your favorite bourbon is as easy as pouring it in a glass with a big cube of ice—you don't actually need much to make this smooth, oaky spirit shine. In fact, some people even drink bourbon neat (or straight up at room temperature). But bourbon is also a great option for crafting some of the best cocktails for drinking all year-round. With these easy bourbon cocktails, you'll find cozy apple cider-based drinks and wintry cocktails, like eggnog with bourbon. Plus, refreshing options for warmer months, like a spiked sweet tea and blackberry bourbon smash.
When it comes to bourbon, it's important to point out the difference between bourbon and whiskey. While bourbon is a type of American whiskey, not all whiskey is considered to be bourbon. Bourbon will have notes of vanilla and caramel which makes it perfect for warm cocktails, like a hot toddy or mulled cider. And it tastes delicious as a flavorful spin on some of your favorite classic cocktails, like a Manhattan or Old-Fashioned. Of course, no bourbon cocktail roundup would be complete without the famous mint julep—it's a Kentucky Derby classic that's perfect for serving alongside your favorite party dips. No matter the occasion, any one of these bourbon drinks are sure to become a new favorite.
Hot Toddy
There's nothing more comforting than a mug of this warm spiked drink on a cold winter day. The sweet honey pairs so well with smooth bourbon and a touch of soothing lemon juice.
Mint Julep
Grab a traditional silver julep cup to give this cocktail a classic Kentucky Derby look. It's perfect for race day or any spring occasion!
Mulled Cider with Bourbon
This simple cider beverage only has a handful of ingredients so it couldn't be easier. Let it simmer on low and take in the wonderful spiced smells that are sure to fill your home.
Sidecar
This elegant cocktail will impress any guests at your party. It's bright, floral, and refreshing thanks to the addition of orange liquor.
Bourbon Spiked Hot Chocolate
This decadent bourbon drink doubles as a chocolatey dessert. It’s perfect for snow days, holidays, or cozy nights on the couch.
Get the recipe at A Cookie Named Desire.
Cranberry Bourbon Sour
Make a big batch of this festive holiday drink to serve at your next Christmas party. It’s great for serving in a big punch bowl.
Get the recipe at Half Baked Harvest.
The New Old-Fashioned
This twist on the classic Old-Fashioned uses maple syrup instead of simple syrup. It's a fun (and easy) way to shake things up. Plus, the maple tastes so good with bourbon's caramel flavors.
Get the recipe at Cookie and Kate.
Bourbon Apple Cider Fizz
This festive holiday cocktail combines apple cider, bourbon, and sparkling wine to create a fun drink for any party this season. Make a big batch to serve in a pitcher if you're serving a crowd.
Get the recipe at So Much Food.
Kentucky Mule
This Kentucky bourbon twist on the classic Moscow mule is perfect for whiskey lovers! It's an easy 3-ingredient cocktail that you can make all year long.
Get the recipe at Fool Proof Living.
Red Wine Sangria with Bourbon
Sangria fans, like Ree Drummond, will love this seasonal version filled with apples, pomegranates, cranberries, and a touch of bourbon for good measure.
Get the recipe at Jessica in the Kitchen.
Sweet Tea and Bourbon
This refreshing drink is great for entertaining because you can make the sweet tea in advance. Then, when guests show up, all you need to do is add the bourbon!
Get the recipe at Sugar and Charm.
Blackberry Bourbon Smash
The key to this bourbon-based drink is muddling (or smashing) the lime, fruit, and mint to infuse the cocktail with flavor. It's as fun to make as it is to drink!
Get the recipe at Kitchen Swagger.
Lemon-Rosemary Bourbon Sour
A homemade flavored simple syrup takes this classic bourbon sour to the next level. It's infused with fresh rosemary for an herbal spin that pairs perfectly with lemon.
Get the recipe at Foxes Love Lemons.
Blood Orange Boulevardier
This bittersweet drink will transform any casual get-together into a sophisticated party. Serve it at your next holiday gathering to impress all your guests.
Get the recipe at Striped Spatula.
Pecan Pie Martini
Rich, creamy, and just as decadent as a slice of pecan pie, this dessert cocktail will feel like a real treat. Especially if you garnish the glass with caramel and chopped pecans.
Get the recipe at Spicy Southern Kitchen.
Sparkling Black Cherry Vanilla Bourbon Lemonade
To offset the sweet and tart flavors of cherries and lemonade, this cocktail uses vanilla bourbon and a splash of dry champagne. It's the perfect way to celebrate any special occasion!
Get the recipe at Margarita's on the Rocks.
Bourbon Peach Smash
Along with fresh summer peaches, this bourbon cocktail uses pineapple and orange juices for sweetness. To make it even more refreshing, fresh mint leaves add a burst of freshness.
Get the recipe at Healthy Little Peach.
Pumpkin Eggnog with Bourbon
Enjoy all the seasonal flavors you know and love in one comforting holiday drink. This version of eggnog features warm spices, pumpkin purée, and a hint of bourbon that's sure to bring some festive cheer.
Get the recipe at A Classic Twist.
Spiced Bourbon Punch
This holiday punch is fit for a crowd—in fact it has a full bottle of bourbon in it! Best of all? It can (and should) be made ahead so the flavors can mingle, and the drink can chill.
Get the recipe at The Modern Proper.
Frozen Old-Fashioned Slush
Transform a traditional Old-Fashioned into a fun and frozen drink. It's a cool way to try bourbon in a new way.
Get the recipe at Inspired by Charm.
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