Peach Bourbon Lemonade Cocktail Recipe

When the weather gets warm, I crave something refreshing, and honestly, nothing hits quite like a peach bourbon lemonade. There’s just something about mixing the sweet flavor of ripe peaches with the smooth kick of bourbon and that bright, zippy tang of fresh lemon juice.

This peach bourbon cocktail is an easy way to enjoy a drink that’s both sweet and crisp, without any complicated steps.

I think of it as a riff on a bourbon smash—light, fruity, and honestly perfect for hanging out outside or sharing with friends. Peach and bourbon come together for a smooth base, and then the lemonade just brightens everything up with a clean, citrusy finish.

Making this bourbon lemonade at home is surprisingly simple. You only need a handful of ingredients and a couple of quick steps.

By the end, you’ll know how to mix, shake, and serve a drink that feels special—even if you’re just making it for yourself after a long day.

Peach Bourbon Lemonade Cocktail Recipe

What I love about this drink is how it balances the sweet peach flavor with bourbon’s warmth and the tartness of lemonade. It’s great for those warm days when I want something refreshing but still a bit bold.

Equipment

I keep things pretty straightforward with this drink. Here’s what I grab:

• Cocktail shaker or just a mason jar with a tight lid
• Muddler (or honestly, the back of a spoon works fine) for smashing peaches
• Fine mesh strainer to catch the pulp
• Jigger or a small measuring cup for pouring
• Mixing spoon for stirring
• Knife and cutting board for slicing up peaches and lemons
• Serving glass (I usually reach for a short tumbler or rocks glass)
• Ice for mixing and serving

Having these tools ready helps me move fast and keeps everything cold. I always chill the glass first—just a little thing, but it makes the drink taste fresher.

Ingredients

For one serving, I try to measure things out so the flavors stay balanced.

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz simple syrup or peach syrup
• 2–3 thin peach slices or a few chunks of fresh peaches
• 3 oz lemonade
• Ice cubes
• Lemon wedge and granulated sugar for the rim (optional)

Sometimes I tweak the sweetness by adding a splash more syrup or lemonade. Ripe peaches always make it taste a little brighter and more natural.

Instructions

• I rub a lemon wedge around the rim of my glass and dip it in granulated sugar if I want a sweet edge.
• I toss the peach slices into my shaker or mason jar and muddle them until they’re juicy.
• Then I pour in the bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup (or peach syrup).
• I add ice, then shake or stir for about 15 seconds until it’s nice and cold.
• After that, I strain the mix into my prepared glass with fresh ice.
• I top with lemonade and give it a gentle stir.
• For garnish, I’ll add a peach slice or a lemon wedge—sometimes both if I’m feeling fancy.

Before serving, I always taste and adjust. If it’s too tart, I’ll pour in a bit more syrup; if it’s too sweet, a splash of lemon juice usually fixes it.

Notes

Good bourbon really makes a difference here since its flavor stands out with the fruit. I go for something smooth and a little sweet, not smoky or harsh.

When I have a few extra minutes, I make my own peach syrup by simmering peaches, sugar, and water, then letting it cool. That homemade syrup brings out more real fruit flavor than the bottled stuff.

If I’m making drinks for a group, I mix up the base—bourbon, syrup, and lemon juice—ahead of time and stash it in the fridge. Right before serving, I add the lemonade and ice so everything stays bright and cold.

Tasting Notes

I taste the sweetness of ripe peaches first. It’s soft and fruity, and honestly, the flavor just screams summer to me.

The peach sets up a smooth start. Then the bourbon steps in and takes over.

The bourbon brings warmth and depth. I pick up a bit of oak and caramel, which balances out the fruit.

It never overpowers—just gives the drink a solid backbone. That’s something I really appreciate.

The lemon juice adds a bright, fresh tang. It stops things from getting too sweet.

Each sip feels crisp. I love how the citrus ties everything together.

When I go back for another sip, I notice a gentle sweet-tart balance. The finish is clean, and there’s this lingering soft peach note on my tongue.

Flavor Highlights:

• Sweetness: Mild and natural from the peaches
• Acidity: Fresh lemon gives balance
• Body: Smooth with a gentle bourbon warmth
• Finish: Light, fruity, and refreshing

I like how the flavors stay simple, but there’s still some layering going on. Each ingredient stands out, and together they make a drink that just feels easy—kind of inviting, honestly.