I’ve always had a soft spot for a good whiskey sour, but the Harvest Moon version? That’s my top pick when autumn rolls in, or honestly, whenever I’m craving something cozy. The Harvest Moon Whiskey Sour brings together fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and smooth whiskey for a drink that’s classic but with a warm, seasonal kick.
It’s a super simple recipe, too—no fancy techniques or tools required, just a few minutes and you’re set.
Whenever I whip up this cocktail at home, friends almost always ask how to make it themselves. The combination of sweet maple, tart lemon, and whiskey’s bite hits that perfect balance—fancy enough for a party, laid-back enough for a solo night in.
Whether you’re hosting or just unwinding, this Harvest Moon Whiskey Sour is a crowd-pleaser.
Harvest Moon Whiskey Sour Cocktail Recipe
What I love most about this drink is how it mixes those classic whiskey sour vibes with fall flavors. You don’t need anything fancy—just basic ingredients and tools you probably already have lying around.
It’s my go-to for a cozy night or when friends pop over.
Equipment
- Rocks glass (Old Fashioned glass works too)
- Cocktail shaker for a good mix
- Jigger or small measuring cup for getting the amounts right
- Strainer to catch ice shards and pulp
- Knife and cutting board for the apple garnish
- Peeler (optional) if you want to get a little fancy with the apple
- Citrus squeezer for fresh lemon juice
- Spoon or stirrer to help blend in syrups
- Ice cubes for chilling everything down
Honestly, I use my cocktail shaker the most, but everything else just makes life easier. If I can’t find my shaker, a travel mug with a tight lid and a fine mesh sieve does the trick.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey (bourbon if I want it sweeter, rye for extra spice)
- 3/4 oz apple brandy for that apple note
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice (seriously, fresh is best)
- 1/2 oz maple syrup for a natural sweetness
- Ice cubes to shake and serve
- Apple slice, for garnish (I go with thin, crisp apples)
- Cinnamon stick, for garnish (smells amazing)
If I’m out of apple brandy, a splash of apple juice or cider works in a pinch. Maple syrup is my favorite, but honey’s okay—just stir it in well so it’s not clumpy.
Instructions
- Toss some ice cubes into your cocktail shaker.
- Pour in the bourbon or rye, apple brandy, lemon juice, and maple syrup.
- Shake it hard, about 15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels ice-cold.
- Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Add an apple slice and a cinnamon stick for garnish and that extra autumn vibe.
If I’m feeling bold, I’ll muddle a bit of fresh apple in the shaker before adding everything else. The key is to shake it really well so all the flavors come together.
Notes
I usually tweak the lemon juice and maple syrup depending on my mood—more tart, more sweet, it’s up to you. Bourbon makes it softer and rounder, rye gives it a bit more kick.
Apple brandy screams fall, but sometimes I swap in regular brandy with a splash of apple juice.
For garnish, I like a tart, crisp apple like Granny Smith—it doesn’t brown too quickly and looks sharp in the glass. The cinnamon stick isn’t just for looks; give your drink a stir with it and you’ll pick up a gentle spice.
Always serve this cocktail cold. If I’m out of maple syrup, simple syrup works, but it’s just not the same autumn vibe.
Sometimes, I’ll put out a plate of apple slices and cinnamon sticks so guests can jazz up their own drinks.
Equipment
- Rocks or old-fashioned glass
- Jigger or small measuring cup
- Citrus squeezer
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey bourbon = smooth & sweet, rye = spicy kick
- 3/4 oz apple brandy or a splash of apple cider if subbing
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice freshly squeezed is best
- 1/2 oz maple syrup pure maple for real fall vibes
- Ice cubes for shaking and serving
- Garnish: Apple slice & cinnamon stick
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Add whiskey, apple brandy, lemon juice, and maple syrup.
- Shake hard for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an apple slice and a cinnamon stick.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tasting Notes
First thing I notice with the Harvest Moon Whiskey Sour is the sweet smell of apples—it’s kind of like walking through an orchard, honestly. There’s a hint of cinnamon that makes it feel extra inviting, even though it’s served over ice.
Here’s what stands out to me:
- Sweetness: Apple cider brings a gentle, mellow sweetness
- Sourness: Lemon juice adds a sharp, tangy bite
- Spice: A little cinnamon or allspice gives it warmth
- Whiskey: The whiskey base comes through with smooth, oaky notes
The texture is silky, especially if you really shake it up with ice. Sometimes, I’ll top it with an apple slice or a sprinkle of nutmeg for a little something extra.
Aftertaste:
After a sip, I still get those apple and spice notes lingering. The whiskey hangs around for a bit, but nothing is too much or overwhelming.
How I Describe it to Friends:
- Comforting
- Crisp
- Balanced
- Easy to sip
It’s a solid pick for autumn, but honestly, I’ll make it any time I’m craving apple flavors or smooth whiskey.
Substitute
If I ever run out of something when making my Harvest Moon Whiskey Sour, I just improvise a bit. There’s usually an easy swap or two that’ll keep the drink tasting great.
Equipment
- Shaker
- Strainer
- Jigger (or, honestly, any small measuring cup)
Ingredients
- Whiskey substitute: Rye whiskey, bourbon, or even dark rum if that’s what’s around
- Apple cider substitute: Pear juice or white grape juice
- Lemon juice substitute: Lime juice or bottled lemon juice if I’m in a pinch
- Sweetener substitute: Honey syrup, maple syrup, or agave nectar
Instructions
