Vanilla Bean Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe

Mixing up cocktails that feel special but not fussy? That’s right up my alley. The Vanilla Bean Bourbon Smash totally fits the bill. Here’s how I blend smooth bourbon with real vanilla bean and bright citrus for a drink that’s rich, simple, and honestly a little bit addictive.

I’ll be honest, the vanilla really softens the bourbon’s boldness, and the citrus keeps it from feeling heavy. There’s something about that balance that just works. It’s the kind of drink I’d serve at a laid-back night in or even at a small get-together—no stress required.

You don’t need anything fancy to make it. Just a handful of ingredients and a couple tools, and you’ll see the flavors come together right in the glass.

Vanilla Bean Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe

This cocktail brings together smooth bourbon, warm vanilla, and bright lemon. Fresh mint gives it a clean finish, and a little honey or simple syrup ties everything together. Somehow, it’s both refreshing and a bit cozy.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker – I grab a shaker to chill and mix the drink fast.
• Muddler – Pressing the mint, lemon, and vanilla bean helps release all the good stuff.
• Jigger – I like measuring so I don’t overdo any one flavor.
• Strainer – No one wants mint leaves or vanilla bits in their glass.
• Double old fashioned glass – A sturdy glass with plenty of room for ice feels just right.
• Bar spoon – I’ll stir in honey or syrup before shaking if I use it.
• Knife and cutting board – For slicing lemon and splitting the vanilla bean.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 vanilla bean (split and scraped)
• ½ oz simple syrup or ½ oz honey syrup
• ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
• 4–5 fresh mint leaves
• Ice cubes
• Lemon wheel or wedge for garnish
• Mint sprig for garnish

I always reach for a smooth bourbon—nothing too harsh. Real vanilla bean gives a deeper flavor than extract ever could. Fresh lemon juice is a must because the bottled stuff just doesn’t cut it. And mint? It should be bright green, not sad and wilted.

Instructions

• Toss the mint leaves, lemon juice, vanilla bean seeds, and simple (or honey) syrup into the shaker.
• Muddle gently. You want the oils and flavors, not shredded mint.
• Pour in the bourbon and add ice.
• Shake for about 15 seconds, just until everything’s nice and cold.
• Strain into a double old fashioned glass packed with fresh ice.
• Top with a lemon wheel and a mint sprig.

I like scraping the vanilla seeds right into the shaker and throwing in the pod too. That extra vanilla note really comes through.

Notes

Honey syrup gives the cocktail a rounder, richer vibe than simple syrup. I just mix equal parts honey and warm water until it’s smooth.

If I’m in the mood for a little heat, I’ll muddle in a thin slice of fresh ginger. It plays surprisingly well with the vanilla and bourbon.

This drink’s at its best right after you make it—when the mint is lively and the ice is fresh. Sometimes I chill my glass first for an even crisper sip.

Tasting Notes

I take the first sip and immediately notice the warm vanilla. It blends with the bourbon, adding a soft sweetness that balances everything out.

The flavor comes across as rich, though it never feels heavy.

The bourbon shows off its oak and caramel notes. I like how the vanilla rounds out those deeper flavors, yet never hides them.

It makes the drink taste more layered, honestly.

I also pick up a touch of fruitiness from the muddled ingredients. That little hint of brightness keeps the cocktail from feeling too strong or flat.

The texture feels silky, especially if I shake the drink well. I love how the ice softens the edges just enough, making each sip smooth and a little more refreshing.

On the finish, I get a gentle mix of spice, vanilla, and bourbon warmth. It lingers for a bit—just long enough to make me want another sip, but it never overwhelms.