Maple Bourbon Punch Cocktail Recipe

I’m always up for trying a new drink, especially when it means mixing sweet and bold flavors together. Maple bourbon punch is honestly one of my favorites—partly because it’s so easy, and partly because it just tastes great at any get-together.

This recipe pulls in the smooth warmth of bourbon and that rich, real maple syrup flavor for a drink that feels cozy but still a little bit fancy.

With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a punch that’s sure to impress friends and family. Sometimes I’ll make it for a party, but honestly, it’s just as good for a chill night at home.

If you want a drink that’s a little different and actually memorable, you should probably give this maple bourbon punch a shot.

Maple Bourbon Punch Cocktail Recipe

This Maple Bourbon Punch blends smooth bourbon, real maple syrup, and fresh fruit notes. I like serving it at gatherings since it’s so simple to make for a crowd, but it still feels special with those sweet, spicy hints.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Large mixing pitcher or punch bowl
• Measuring jigger
• Citrus juicer
• Bar spoon
• Rocks glass or old fashioned glass
• Muddler
• Small strainer (optional)
• Knife and cutting board for garnish
• Ice bucket with fresh ice (crushed and cubed)
• Fine mesh strainer if clarifying juice or syrup
• Pitcher for pre-mixing or storing leftovers

These tools make it easier to mix, chill, and serve the drink just right. If I’m feeling a smash-style cocktail, I’ll grab the muddler for fresh fruit or even a sprig of rosemary.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Kentucky bourbon
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh squeezed is best)
• 4 dashes orange bitters
• 4 dashes aromatic bitters
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 small cinnamon stick
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2-3 whole star anise
• Optional: 1/3 cup club soda or ginger beer (for fizz)
• Garnish: lemon wheels, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, rosemary sprigs
• Crushed or cubed ice

Sometimes I’ll muddle in a little ginger, add a splash of simple syrup, or toss in a sprinkle of sugar to brighten things up. And if I’m in the mood, I’ll swap out the apple cider for sparkling apple cider just for fun.

Instructions

• Add bourbon, maple syrup, apple cider, lemon juice, orange juice, bitters, and vanilla to a mixing pitcher or punch bowl.
• Drop in the cinnamon stick, nutmeg, and star anise.
• Stir it up until everything’s nicely combined.
• Fill your glasses with crushed or cubed ice.
• Pour the maple bourbon punch over the ice, straining out the spices if you want.
• Top each glass with a splash of club soda or ginger beer for some bubbles (if you’re into that).
• Garnish with lemon wheels, orange slices, a sprig of rosemary, or a cinnamon stick.
• Serve right away, and keep any extra punch in the fridge for later.

If I’m making a maple bourbon smash, I’ll muddle fresh fruit or herbs in the shaker before adding the rest of the liquids.

Notes

Honestly, pure maple syrup is the way to go—skip the pancake syrup, it just tastes fake. Apple cider is perfect in the fall, but you can swap in orange juice or ginger beer if you’re looking for a brighter vibe.

I always reach for fresh-squeezed lemon juice so the punch never turns out too tart or flat. Star anise, nutmeg, and vanilla add a warm, spicy kick that makes it feel a little festive, but I’ll tweak those depending on my mood.

If I’m after a lighter drink, I just top it with club soda or sparkling water. Want it sweeter? Add a bit more maple syrup or some simple syrup. Crushed ice keeps it super cold and makes every sip extra refreshing.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of the Maple Bourbon Punch, the aroma hits me first. That maple syrup scent really pops, and there’s a little citrus from the lemon juice sneaking in.

It smells sweet, but not in an overpowering way. Honestly, it’s inviting—almost cozy.

Tasting it, the bourbon’s warmth and smoky notes jump out right away. The maple syrup is there, just sweet enough, and it kind of melts into the whiskey.

There’s a zing from the lemon that perks things up. It keeps the whole thing from getting too heavy or syrupy.

The finish? It’s smooth, soft, and just kind of lingers. None of the flavors push too hard, which I appreciate.

I like how balanced the punch feels—nothing’s too sweet or too bitter. Sometimes, I’ll pour it over ice, other times just neat, and the flavor holds up either way.

If I toss in a slice of orange or maybe a cinnamon stick as a garnish, the aroma and taste get a little extra kick. Makes it even more fun to drink, honestly.

Key Flavors I Notice:

• Sweet maple
• Smoky bourbon
• Bright lemon
• Hints of spice (if garnished)

It’s the kind of drink I find pretty comforting, perfect for just kicking back and sipping slow.