This Maple Whiskey Sour is a cozy twist on the classic cocktail. Instead of simple syrup, I use pure maple syrup, which adds warmth and depth with just the right amount of earthy sweetness. Paired with bright lemon juice and your favorite whiskey, it’s smooth, tangy, and perfect for fall evenings (or honestly, anytime you want a drink that feels a little special). If you love this, you might also want to try my Hot Toddy for a comforting, warm version of a whiskey drink that’s perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Whiskey: The star of the drink. Pick one you enjoy sipping! Smoky, caramel-forward, or smooth and mellow. Bourbon works beautifully if you prefer a sweeter finish. Want something different? Try rum for a hint of molasses.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed makes all the difference! It brightens the drink and balances the maple syrup. Slice up an extra lemon for garnish.
- Maple Syrup: Go for pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup!). It gives that signature cozy sweetness. Out of maple syrup? Sub honey, agave, or simple syrup. To keep the maple vibe, add ¼-½ teaspoon of maple extract.
Can I Make A Non-Alcoholic Maple Whiskey Sour?
Absolutely! If you want to leave out the whiskey and make a maple whiskey mocktail, it’s easy (and still delicious)! Simply replace the whiskey with apple cider or iced tea for a flavorful base. I would still add the maple syrup and lemon juice to keep the sweet and tangy balance. For a little extra depth, you could also try adding a splash of non-alcoholic whiskey or maple extract to keep that rich, maple flavor.
Variations
Make it non-alcoholic: Swap whiskey for apple cider or iced tea, then add the maple syrup and lemon juice as usual. For more depth, splash in non-alcoholic whiskey or a drop of maple extract.
Make it ahead: Stir together whiskey, lemon juice, and maple syrup in a jar, refrigerate for up to 1 day, then shake with ice when ready to serve. Garnish just before serving.
No shaker? No problem: Use a jar with a lid (even a travel mug!) and shake well for 20 seconds. Or stir everything together and pour over ice… easy and just as delicious.
Maple Whiskey Sour
Ingredients
- 4 ounces whiskey
- 2 ounces freshly squeezed lemon juice, about 1–2 lemons
- 2 ounces pure maple syrup
- crushed ice
- lemons, sliced, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- To the shaker, add the whiskey, lemon juice, and maple syrup.
- Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the mixture is well chilled.
- Fill two lowball glasses with crushed ice.
- Strain the cocktail mixture into the prepared glasses.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon and serve immediately.
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What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
I really liked this cocktail! I thought the maple syrup worked well with the whiskey.
Elizabeth
Not bad! The drink wasn't overly sweet, which I prefer. I would choose maple syrup over the simple syrup that is in the classic whiskey sour (which is not my favorite cocktail).
This is a keeper, I think! I love the depth the maple syrup brings.
