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If you enjoy bourbon and want something a little different, this Maple Bourbon Smash is an easy way to add some new flavor to your cocktail routine.

This recipe shows you how to mix smooth bourbon with real maple syrup, lemon, and fresh mint for a drink that feels both special and simple.

I often make this cocktail when I want something that’s not too sweet but still full of taste.

Maple syrup adds a gentle touch of sweetness without overpowering the bourbon. The lemon keeps everything balanced.

It takes just a few minutes to put together and doesn’t require any fancy bar tools.

If you’re ready to try a drink that’s easy to make and enjoy, you can follow my recipe below.

Maple Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe

I enjoy making the Maple Bourbon Smash because it tastes both sweet and rich, with just a hint of citrus. Mixing the right tools, fresh ingredients, and clear steps leads to a classic cocktail that’s simple to craft at home.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

Cocktail shaker: Essential for mixing and chilling the drink properly.
Muddler: I use this to press the orange and mint and release their flavors.

Measuring jigger: Ensures I pour accurate amounts of bourbon, syrup, and juice.
Fine mesh strainer: Helps filter out pulp and ice shards for a smooth pour.
Rocks glass: Best for serving this cocktail over ice.

Bar spoon: For stirring or layering as needed.
Knife and cutting board: Useful for slicing fruit garnishes safely.

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon

1 oz fresh lemon juice
3/4 oz pure maple syrup
2-3 fresh mint leaves

1-2 orange slices plus extra for garnish
Crushed ice
Mint sprig for garnish

Instructions

Add the orange slices and mint leaves to the shaker.
Muddle gently for about 10 seconds to release the oils and juice.
Pour in the bourbon, lemon juice, and maple syrup.

Fill the shaker with ice.
Secure the lid tightly. Shake well for about 15–20 seconds.
Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.

Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and an orange slice.

Notes

Using high-quality bourbon gives the drink a smooth, rich finish.

For those who want a less sweet flavor, I sometimes use less maple syrup or add more lemon juice to balance it out.

Crushed ice chills the drink fast and adds a nice look.

If I want a more intense mint taste, I add one or two extra mint leaves.

For a lighter version, reducing the bourbon by half an ounce still gives good flavor. I never skip straining because it keeps the drink clean and pleasant to sip.

Must Have Ingredients

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	Oranfit Dried Orange Slices For Garnish	Buy On Amazon
	Oranfit Dried Lime Slices For Garnish	Buy On Amazon
	LAVA Premium Cocktail Rimmers Variety Pack	Buy On Amazon
	Pure Cane Simple Syrup Cocktail Mixer	Buy On Amazon
	Q GINGER BEER with Real Ginger & Organic Agave	Buy On Amazon
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	Strongwater Old Fashioned Mix- Handcrafted Old Fashioned Syrup with Bitters, Orange, Cherry, Organic Demerara Sugar	Buy On Amazon
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	Professional Drink Mixer Set for Beginners	Buy On Amazon
	1 Pack 3 Tier Bar Glass Rimmer	Buy On Amazon
	Cocktail Ice Mold With Easy Fill and Release Silicone Round Ice Ball Maker	Buy On Amazon
	Stainless Steel Bar Tool For Making Garnish for Cocktails & Mocktails	Buy On Amazon

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of the Maple Bourbon Smash, the first thing I notice is the gentle sweetness from the maple syrup.

It blends well with the warm, woody notes from the bourbon. The taste is smooth, not overpowering.

There is a fresh, bright flavor from the muddled lemon.

It adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness and makes the drink feel lighter. I can taste hints of mint, which gives a cool, refreshing finish.

The cocktail feels smooth on my tongue and is not too heavy.

The chilled glass and ice make it extra crisp.

When I smell the drink, it’s easy to notice the fresh mint and a hint of bourbon.

The aroma is welcoming and not too sharp.

The color is a warm amber, and the garnish of mint and lemon slice looks inviting.

The texture is clear, with no creaminess. I find the overall balance of sweet, tart, and herbal makes this an easy cocktail to enjoy.

Substitute

Sometimes, I just don’t have every ingredient for a Maple Bourbon Smash. Here are a few easy swaps I reach for when that happens:

Ingredients:

Bourbon: If I’m in the mood for something spicier, I’ll grab rye whiskey instead.

Maple syrup: Honey or simple syrup can fill in if maple’s missing, though molasses adds a deeper, richer vibe.
Lemon juice: No lemons? Fresh lime juice usually does the trick.
Fresh mint: Sometimes basil or even thyme sneaks in for a different twist.

Instructions:

If honey replaces maple syrup, I mix it with a splash of warm water first. Otherwise, it just won’t blend in right.
When I go with lime juice, I keep the same measurement as I’d use for lemon.

For a booze-free version, brewed black tea or even ginger ale makes a decent stand-in for bourbon.

Equipment:

A muddler’s great for mint, but honestly, the back of a spoon works if that’s all I’ve got.

And if my cocktail shaker’s missing? I just use a glass jar with a lid. It gets the job done.

Maple Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe