Looking for a refreshing cocktail with a twist? The Fig Bourbon Smash is a tasty drink that blends sweet figs with smoky bourbon.

This easy recipe combines muddled figs, bourbon, lemon juice, and honey for a fruity cocktail with depth.

The Fig Bourbon Smash works well for both casual sipping and fancy parties.

Its pretty purple color and fresh fig garnish make it look impressive in a glass. The flavor is a nice mix of sweet and tart with an oak finish from the bourbon.

This cocktail is perfect for late summer and early fall when fresh figs are in season. But it can be made year-round using dried figs soaked in warm water.

The recipe is quick to make and only needs a few ingredients.

Fig Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe

The Fig Bourbon Smash is a tasty drink that mixes bourbon with fresh figs and lemon. It’s perfect for fall and winter gatherings.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

Ingredients

For one Fig Bourbon Smash, you’ll need:

2 oz bourbon
2 fresh figs quartered
1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
Ice
Club soda optional
Fig slice and lemon twist for garnish

Choose a good quality bourbon as it’s the main spirit.

Instructions

Put the fig quarters in the shaker and muddle them gently.
Add bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.

Fill the shaker with ice and shake hard for 10-15 seconds.
Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Top with a splash of club soda if desired.

Garnish with a fig slice and lemon twist.

Muddling the figs helps release their flavor into the drink.

Notes

This recipe can be changed to fit your taste. Try adding a dash of bitters for extra depth.

You can use honey instead of simple syrup for a different flavor. If figs aren’t in season, try using fig jam as a substitute.

The drink is best served right away while it’s cold.

You can make a big batch for parties by scaling up the recipe. Just shake in batches and strain into a pitcher over ice.

Tasting Notes

The Fig Bourbon Smash offers a mix of sweet and tangy flavors. Fresh figs bring natural sweetness, while bourbon adds warmth and depth. Lemon juice provides a tart kick that balances the drink.

On the nose, the cocktail has hints of caramel and oak from the bourbon. The fig aroma comes through as well, giving a fruity scent.

The first sip reveals a smooth texture. The bourbon’s spicy notes blend with the fig’s honey-like taste. Lemon brightens the drink and cuts through the richness.

As it sits, the flavors meld together. The fig becomes more pronounced, creating a jammy quality. The bourbon’s burn fades, leaving a mellow finish.

This cocktail works well in both summer and fall. Its fruity profile suits warm weather, while the bourbon makes it cozy for cooler nights. The drink pairs nicely with cheese plates or grilled meats.

Substitute

Don’t have figs on hand? No problem. Several tasty alternatives can work in this cocktail.

Fresh peaches make a great swap, bringing a similar sweet-tart flavor. Meanwhile, plums are another good choice, offering a rich, jammy taste.

For a twist, try using blackberries or raspberries. These berries add a punch of color and tangy sweetness. Apricots can also stand in nicely, lending a subtle fruitiness.

If fresh fruit isn’t available, fig jam works well too. Use about 1 tablespoon per drink. Peach or apricot preserves are good backups.

For a non-alcoholic version, skip the bourbon and use apple juice instead. Then, add a splash of lemon juice for tartness. This mocktail is just as refreshing.

Remember to adjust sweetness as needed when using substitutes. A touch of honey or simple syrup can balance out tart fruits.

Fig Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe