Hot Honey Strawberry Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe

I love mixing drinks that play with sweet, spicy, and bold flavors. This Hot Honey Strawberry Bourbon Smash totally nails that balance, and it’s got a refreshing twist that keeps things interesting.

It brings together juicy strawberries, smooth bourbon, and just enough heat to make you pay attention. The drink feels both cozy and vibrant at the same time. You’ll see how to make a cocktail that stands out with its sweet-heat balance and fresh taste.

The first time I tried hot honey with fruit and bourbon, I honestly didn’t expect the flavors to work so well together. The honey’s gentle spice lifts the bourbon’s warmth, and the strawberries bring in a bright, fruity note.

It’s simple to make, and honestly, it looks as good as it tastes.

Whether you’re having friends over or just need something fun after a long day, this cocktail brings a little excitement to the moment. Once you give it a try, you’ll probably want to keep these ingredients around for next time.

Hot Honey Strawberry Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe

I mix sweet strawberries, smooth bourbon, and a bit of hot honey to get a balanced drink with a little kick. This recipe blends bright fruit, fresh mint, and lemon juice for a refreshing twist that feels simple but also a little special.

Equipment

I keep my setup pretty straightforward. The right tools just make things easier and help the flavors come together.

• Cocktail shaker – for mixing and chilling the drink evenly.
• Muddler – to crush strawberries and mint for maximum flavor.
• Jigger – to measure bourbon, syrup, and lemon juice accurately.
• Fine mesh strainer – to remove pulp and seeds for a clean pour.
• Bar spoon – for stirring if you need it.
• Rocks glass – wide enough for fresh ice and garnish.
• Small knife and cutting board – to slice strawberries and lemon.
• Ice scoop or tongs – to handle ice safely and neatly.

I like to have everything within arm’s reach before starting, so the drink comes together quickly and stays cold.

Ingredients

I stick with simple, fresh ingredients for the best flavor. The sweetness from strawberries and honey balances out the bourbon’s warmth.

• 2 oz bourbon – a smooth, medium-bodied option works best.
• 3–4 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced.
• ½ oz hot honey – adds mild heat and sweetness.
• ½ oz simple syrup – balances the spice from the honey.
• ¾ oz fresh lemon juice – brightens the drink.
• 2–3 fresh mint leaves – for aroma and freshness.
• 2 dashes bitters – adds depth and a little spice.
• Club soda – to top off and add a light fizz.
• Fresh ice – for shaking and serving.

I always taste the strawberries first—ripe fruit really makes a difference.

Instructions

I follow a few easy steps to keep the cocktail smooth and balanced.

• Toss strawberries and mint into the cocktail shaker, then muddle gently to release the juice and aroma.
• Pour in bourbon, hot honey, simple syrup, lemon juice, and bitters.
• Fill the shaker with fresh ice and shake for about 15 seconds until everything’s nice and chilled.
• Strain the mix into a rocks glass filled with ice.
• Top with a splash of club soda for a little fizz.
• Garnish with a small mint sprig or strawberry slice.

I serve it right away so the bubbles and aroma stay fresh.

Notes

I adjust the spice by changing the amount of hot honey. Less honey keeps things mild, while more brings in extra warmth.

If I want it sweeter, I cut the lemon juice a bit or add a touch more simple syrup. Using fresh strawberries always gives a brighter flavor than frozen ones.

For a lighter version, I’ll use more club soda and cut the bourbon in half. Chilling the glass before pouring helps keep the drink colder.

I find this cocktail works well year-round, but it really shines when strawberries are in season.

Tasting Notes

So, the first sip hits with a warm sweetness—that honey just sort of melts right into the rich bourbon. I get a mild heat from the honey, nothing too wild, but it sticks around long enough to keep things interesting.

The strawberries bring in this gentle fruitiness that really lightens the mood. Their tart edge cuts through the bourbon’s depth, so the cocktail never feels heavy.

I pick up a hint of smoky oak from the bourbon, which adds a grounded, rustic vibe. That smokiness just fits with the little kick from the hot honey.

The texture? It’s silky and refreshing, especially over crushed ice. The cold really brings out the fruit and dials back the spice a bit.

On the nose, I catch sweet berry aromas swirling with a soft bourbon warmth. Every sip just feels balanced—sweet, spicy, a little tangy—somehow it all works together.