Sweet maple syrup meets smoky bacon in this bourbon-based cocktail.
The Maple Bacon Bourbon Cocktail combines real maple syrup, crispy bacon, and smooth bourbon for a drink that tastes like breakfast in a glass.
The blend of flavors balances sweet and savory notes.
A splash of fresh lemon juice adds brightness.
A strip of candied bacon makes a fun garnish.
This drink works well for brunch parties.
It also fits cozy evenings at home.
The recipe takes just 5 minutes to make once the candied bacon is ready.
Maple Bacon Bourbon Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Rocks glass
- Small frying pan
- Paper towels
- Measuring jigger
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 2 strips thick-cut bacon
- Ice cubes
- Orange peel for garnish
- Use extra crispy bacon for the best results.
Instructions
- Cook bacon until very crispy.
- Place on paper towels to drain and save 1/4 teaspoon of bacon fat.
- Add bourbon, maple syrup, bitters, and the reserved bacon fat to a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 20 seconds.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Crumble one bacon strip and sprinkle on top of the drink.
- Garnish with the remaining bacon strip and orange peel.
Notes
Must Have Ingredients
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Tasting Notes
The Maple Bacon Bourbon Cocktail offers a sweet and smoky flavor profile.
Maple syrup brings natural sweetness, and bacon adds a rich, salty note.
Bourbon creates a warm, oaky base with hints of vanilla and caramel.
These flavors blend well with the maple’s sweetness and the bacon’s savory elements.
A subtle smokiness comes from the bacon-infused bourbon.
The drink has a smooth, medium-bodied texture.
The finish is warm and balanced.
Sweet maple fades into bourbon’s spice notes, while the bacon flavor lingers.
Flavor Highlights:
- Sweet maple
- Smoky bacon
- Vanilla and caramel notes
- Oak and spice
- Salty undertones
Texture Notes:
- Medium body
- Silky mouthfeel
- Clean finish
- Light viscosity
Serve this drink slightly chilled.
Ice dilution helps meld the flavors and makes it more refreshing.
Substitute
You can make this cocktail without maple syrup or bourbon.
Swap pure maple syrup for honey or simple syrup.
Each option brings a different sweetness, so adjust the amount to your taste.
For a non-alcoholic version, use apple cider or a mix of ginger beer and apple juice instead of bourbon.
These alternatives keep the drink’s warm, rich taste without alcohol.
Bacon alternatives:
- Turkey bacon
- Vegetarian bacon
- Smoked salt rim (for bacon flavor without meat)
Add smoky notes with a few drops of liquid smoke instead of bacon.
Start with 1-2 drops and taste before adding more.
For a vegan recipe, use agave nectar instead of maple syrup.
Skip the bacon garnish and add smoked paprika on top for extra flavor.
Any type of whiskey can replace bourbon.
Try rye whiskey for a spicier drink or Irish whiskey for a smoother taste.
