Vanilla Bourbon Cream Cocktail
Smooth bourbon, creamy vanilla, and a hint of sweetness come together in this cozy, crowd-pleasing cocktail. Easy to shake up and perfect for dessert or a nightcap—customize with your favorite liqueur, and finish with nutmeg or chocolate for extra flair!
Equipment
- Rocks glass
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or shot glass
- Mixing spoon
- Small bowl (for optional garnishes)
- Measuring spoons
- Fine strainer
- Ice cube tray
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1.5 oz heavy cream or half-and-half, or coconut cream
- 0.5 oz simple syrup or maple syrup
- 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
- ice cubes
- 0.5 oz coffee liqueur, chocolate liqueur, or Irish cream liqueur optional
- ground cinnamon, grated nutmeg, or vanilla bean optional, for garnish
- cocoa powder or shaved dark chocolate optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker about halfway with ice cubes.
- Pour in the bourbon, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and simple syrup.
- (Optional) Add a splash of coffee liqueur, chocolate liqueur, or Irish cream for extra richness.
- Shake hard for 15–20 seconds until the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla bean, cocoa powder, or shaved dark chocolate if desired.
Notes
Use bourbon you enjoy drinking neat. Adjust the sweetness to taste, and use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free version. Garnish with fresh nutmeg, chocolate, or a vanilla bean for a special touch. Store-bought bourbon cream liqueur can be substituted for homemade.