Cranberry Bourbon Sour Cocktail Recipe

I’m always up for a cocktail that’s easy to throw together but still feels like a treat. There’s something about a bourbon sour—it’s got that sweet-and-tart thing going on already, but cranberry? That just brings a crisp, almost cheeky twist that works no matter what time of year it is.

This Cranberry Bourbon Sour recipe is my go-to when I want something that feels a little special, but doesn’t demand a ton of effort or fancy ingredients.

Whenever I make this drink, I notice how the cranberry just kind of lifts everything up. It’s fruity, yeah, but it doesn’t drown out the bourbon.

The flavors just seem to click. Whether I’m mixing one for myself after a long day or making a small batch for friends, it never disappoints.

You’ll find the full recipe below, step by step, with some quick tasting notes so you know what you’re in for before you take that first sip.

It’s quick, it’s simple, and honestly, it’s a nice way to shake up your usual drink routine.

Cranberry Bourbon Sour Cocktail Recipe

What I like about this cocktail is how the bourbon’s warmth plays off the tartness of cranberry and the zing from fresh lemon juice.

It’s a short list of ingredients, but they come together for a drink that’s refreshing and, honestly, works just as well in the summer as it does around the holidays.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker – I always reach for a metal one; it chills the drink fast.
• Jigger or measuring tool – Makes it way easier to get the ratios right.
• Strainer – A fine mesh strainer keeps those annoying ice chips and pulp out.
• Rocks glass – I’m partial to a short glass with a nice wide rim.
• Bar spoon – Handy if I want to tweak the flavors after shaking.
• Citrus juicer – Fresh lemon juice is a must, so I keep a little handheld juicer nearby.
• Ice – Big cubes are my favorite since they melt slower and don’t water down the drink.

Getting all this stuff out before I start mixing saves me from scrambling mid-drink.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (I’m a Maker’s Mark fan, but honestly, any smooth bourbon will do)
• 1 oz 100% cranberry juice or homemade cranberry syrup
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice (seriously, squeeze it yourself)
• ½ oz simple syrup or maple syrup—totally up to how sweet you like it
• 2 dashes orange bitters
• Ice cubes
• Garnish: fresh cranberries, rosemary sprig, or a twist of orange zest

Sometimes I’ll swap in cranberry simple syrup if I’m craving more cranberry punch.

Sugared cranberries look great if I want to make the glass extra festive—totally optional, though.

Instructions

• Fill your cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add the bourbon, cranberry juice, lemon juice, syrup, and bitters.
• Shake it for about 15 seconds, until the shaker feels icy cold in your hands.
• Strain the drink into a rocks glass packed with fresh ice.
• Garnish with a rosemary sprig, a few cranberries, or an orange twist—whatever you’re feeling.
• Taste it, and if you want it sweeter, just stir in a bit more syrup.

I like to really shake it hard so there’s a little froth on top—it just looks inviting, you know?

Notes

I always go for 100% cranberry juice because it keeps the cocktail tart and bright.

If I only have sweetened cranberry cocktail juice, I just use less syrup so it doesn’t get too sugary.

Fresh lemon juice makes a big difference. Bottled just doesn’t have the same kick and can make the drink taste kind of flat.

For garnish, rosemary gives a nice aroma, and sugared cranberries are a fun touch if I want it to look festive.

If I’m in the mood for something closer to a cranberry old fashioned, I’ll dial back the lemon and go a little heavier on the bitters.

This recipe’s pretty forgiving, so I’ll tweak the syrup and juice depending on whether I want something sharper and more sour or a smoother bourbon-forward drink.

Tasting Notes

That first sip? It surprises me with this balance—tart cranberry right up front, then smooth bourbon sneaking in underneath. The cranberry’s got this bright, fruity edge, and the bourbon just sort of hangs around, giving it a lingering warmth.

Honestly, the drink manages to feel both refreshing and a little cozy at the same time. Makes sense as a Thanksgiving cocktail, doesn’t it?

There’s a pop of citrus that lifts everything, so it never feels heavy or cloying. I appreciate that little zing.

I pick up a hint of sweetness, just enough to round out the sour notes. Thankfully, it’s not too sugary, so the cranberry really gets to stand out.

Texture-wise, it’s light, with a crisp finish that keeps me coming back for another sip. I don’t feel rushed—it’s easy to sip slowly, and honestly, it pairs nicely with all those holiday dishes.

For me, this could work as a welcome drink before dinner. Or maybe just as a laid-back Thanksgiving cocktail to share with friends.