Chai Bourbon Punch Cocktail Recipe

This Chai Bourbon Punch cocktail is a tasty mix of warm chai spices and smooth bourbon, perfect for relaxing or sharing with friends. I love how those cozy chai flavors swirl together with bourbon’s richness—something a little unexpected compared to the usual drinks.

Whenever I make this cocktail, it just hits the spot for chilly nights or when people drop by. It’s honestly pretty simple to throw together, even if you’re not a cocktail pro.

Chai Bourbon Punch Cocktail Recipe

This drink brings together the warmth of bourbon and the cozy spices from chai tea. There are sweet notes, a little spice, and a finishing touch of cinnamon and star anise for a bit of depth.

Equipment

• Rocks glass or any sturdy short glass
• Cocktail shaker
• Measuring jigger or small measuring cup
• Fine mesh strainer
• Small saucepan
• Stirring spoon
• Ice cubes

These tools keep things easy and tidy. I reach for a shaker to blend the flavors fast, and a mesh strainer catches any stray spices or tea bits.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz brewed chai tea (cooled)
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• 2 dashes bitters
• Ice cubes
• Ground cinnamon (for garnish)
• 1 star anise pod (for garnish)

A decent bourbon really makes a difference here. The chai tea needs to be strong and cooled, otherwise the drink just gets watered down.

I’m partial to homemade simple syrup—it just blends in better. Lemon juice keeps things from getting too sweet, and bitters round it all out.

Instructions

• Brew the chai tea and let it cool completely.
• Fill the cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add bourbon, cooled chai tea, simple syrup, lemon juice, and bitters to the shaker.
• Shake well for about 20 seconds.
• Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
• Sprinkle ground cinnamon on top.
• Garnish with a star anise pod before serving.

Chilling the tea is key so the punch stays bold. I always shake it like I mean it—nobody likes a half-mixed cocktail.

Notes

If I want something lighter, I’ll splash in extra chai tea or a bit of club soda. Simple syrup is just equal parts sugar and water, heated until it’s clear—nothing fancy.

Sometimes I go heavier on the cinnamon or add more star anise if I’m feeling it. Cinnamon sticks or a twist of orange peel make fun garnishes too, but honestly, star anise just looks and smells fantastic.

I’ll often make the chai ahead and stash it in the fridge. This cocktail is a favorite for cozy nights or when friends show up and I want something a little special.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of Chai Bourbon Punch, the first thing that hits me is the warm spice from the chai tea. The cinnamon, cardamom, and clove jump out right away—hard to miss those.

The bourbon brings in this rich, oaky vibe, with just enough sweetness to keep things interesting. I catch hints of vanilla swirling in with the chai spices.

Sometimes, there’s a little heat from the ginger or black pepper. It’s not overwhelming, but it sneaks up and makes the drink feel extra cozy.

A bit of citrus—usually lemon or orange—cuts through and keeps things from getting too heavy. That brightness is honestly what makes me want another sip.

The whole thing is smooth, but there are definitely layers happening. I notice how the chilled punch brings out even more of those flavors—maybe it’s just me, but it seems to pop.

If I throw an orange slice or cinnamon stick on top, there’s this little burst of aroma every time I pick up the glass. That extra touch makes it feel special, honestly.