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Whiskey Sour Cocktail Recipe

Whiskey Sour Cocktail Recipe
The Whiskey Sour balances the warmth of whiskey with fresh lemon juice and sweetness from simple syrup.
John

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker with strainer
  • Jigger or measuring tool
  • Citrus juicer (hand press style works well)
  • Bar spoon: for stirring.
  • Rocks glass or old-fashioned glass for serving
  • Ice cube tray (larger cubes melt slower and dilute less)
  • Knife and cutting board for cutting garnishes

Ingredients

For a classic Whiskey Sour, you'll need:

  • 2 oz 60ml bourbon whiskey
  • ¾ oz 22ml fresh lemon juice
  • ½ oz 15ml simple syrup
  • 1 egg white optional, for a silky texture
  • Ice cubes for shaking and serving
  • Lemon wheel or cherry for garnish

Simple Syrup Recipe:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.

Instructions

  • Prepare your glass by adding ice to chill it while you mix the cocktail.
  • Measure ingredients with a jigger: add whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to your shaker.
  • If using egg white, add it now for a frothy texture (called a "Boston Sour").
  • Dry shake (without ice) for 10-15 seconds if you use egg white to create foam.
  • Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well-chilled.
  • Discard ice from your serving glass.
  • Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass over fresh ice.
  • Garnish with a lemon wheel or cherry.

Notes

For variations, try maple syrup instead of simple syrup for a richer flavor.
You can float a few drops of red wine on top (called a "New York Sour").
If egg white concerns you, use pasteurized egg whites for safety.
Alternatively, aquafaba (chickpea liquid) works as a vegan substitute.
Serve the cocktail "up" (without ice) in a coupe glass for a more elegant presentation.
Bourbon is traditional, but rye whiskey creates a spicier version.