White Cranberry Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe

I love making cocktails that feel simple but still look and taste special. A cranberry bourbon smash is one of my go-to drinks because it balances sweet, tart, and bold flavors in one glass.

This white cranberry bourbon smash gives you a crisp twist on the classic cocktail with just a few easy ingredients.

When I mix this drink, I get the smooth warmth of bourbon paired with the light, fruity taste of white cranberry juice. Fresh citrus and herbs brighten everything up, making it perfect for a casual night in or a small gathering.

The best part? It comes together fast, no fancy steps or annoying fuss.

You’ll see exactly what you need, how to put it together, and what flavors to expect. By the time you’re done, you’ll have a white cranberry bourbon smash that looks inviting and tastes refreshing every time.

White Cranberry Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe

I like this cocktail because it balances the smooth taste of bourbon with the tart flavor of white cranberry juice. The fresh mint and cranberries make it look festive while adding a refreshing touch.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker – lets me mix everything evenly and chill the drink fast.
• Muddler – helps me press the mint leaves to release their oils.
• Jigger – keeps the bourbon, juice, and syrup measured correctly.
• Bar spoon – makes stirring easier when I don’t want to over-shake.
• Strainer – keeps ice and herbs from ending up in the glass.
• Rocks glass – gives the cocktail a solid base and enough room for ice.
• Ice cubes – keep the drink cold without watering it down too quickly.

Having the right tools makes the process smoother and the drink more consistent every time.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz white cranberry juice
• ½ oz simple syrup (adjust sweetness as needed)
• 4–5 fresh mint leaves
• 3–4 fresh cranberries (plus extra for garnish)
• Ice cubes
• Optional: small sprig of fresh herb like rosemary for garnish

I stick with a good-quality bourbon because it gives the cocktail a warm base. The white cranberry juice keeps the color light and crisp.

The mint and cranberries add freshness and a seasonal look, which I honestly think makes it more fun to serve.

Instructions

• Place mint leaves and cranberries in the shaker.
• Muddle mint and berries gently to release flavor without breaking them apart too much.
• Add bourbon, white cranberry juice, and simple syrup.
• Fill the shaker with ice and shake for about 10–15 seconds.
• Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
• Garnish with extra cranberries and a mint sprig.

I keep the shake short so the drink stays cold but not watered down. Garnishing makes it look more polished and inviting, and who doesn’t love a pretty drink?

Notes

I’ve found that muddling too hard can make the mint taste bitter, so I press lightly. If I want a sweeter drink, I add a little more simple syrup, but I usually keep it balanced so the bourbon still shines.

Fresh cranberries are optional, but they make the glass look more festive. If I don’t have them, I sometimes just use a mint sprig or even a slice of lime.

Using crushed ice instead of cubes changes the texture and makes the drink colder faster, but it also melts quicker. I usually prefer cubes to keep it steady.

Tasting Notes

So, the first sip? There’s this crisp, slightly tart kick from the white cranberry juice. Honestly, it feels lighter than the usual red cranberry—refreshing, but not too sharp or mouth-puckering.

Then the bourbon comes through, adding a cozy warmth and some depth. I get these smooth hints of oak and vanilla, which somehow just vibe perfectly with the fruitiness.

The mix isn’t too sweet or too strong, which I appreciate. It’s steady, easygoing.

Fresh mint on top gives it this cool, clean finish. I really like how it keeps things from feeling heavy or syrupy.

If I throw in a little simple syrup, the sweetness mellows out that tart edge. That makes the cocktail super easy to enjoy, especially if you’re someone who isn’t into bold, punchy flavors.

Flavor highlights I notice:

• Crisp cranberry tartness
• Smooth bourbon warmth
• Light sweetness from syrup
• Fresh herbal mint finish

The color’s kind of pale and clear, but there’s a soft golden tint from the bourbon. I love how it looks bright in the glass, especially with ice and a few mint leaves floating around.

Texture-wise, it’s smooth, but there’s this gentle bite from the citrus. Every sip stays balanced—I find myself wanting to sip slowly and just enjoy it.