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Easy Maple Bourbon Cranberry Cocktail: Best Fall Drink

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This Maple Bourbon Cranberry Cocktail is a quick and easy fall drink that balances warm bourbon, sweet maple syrup, and tart cranberry juice with a hint of fresh rosemary. It’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in minutes and is perfect for Thanksgiving or cozy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon (e.g., Maker’s Mark or Bulleit)
  • 3 oz (90 ml) 100% pure unsweetened cranberry juice
  • 1 oz (30 ml) pure maple syrup (Grade A dark amber)
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary, plus extra for garnish
  • A handful fresh or frozen cranberries, for garnish
  • 1 strip orange peel, for garnish
  • Ice (preferably large cubes)

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the cranberry juice, maple syrup, and one sprig of fresh rosemary. Stir gently until the maple syrup is fully dissolved, about 2-3 minutes. Do not boil.
  2. Remove from heat and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to infuse. Remove the rosemary sprig and discard.
  3. Pour the warm cranberry-maple mixture into a small bowl or liquid measuring cup and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes, or until completely cool. (Alternatively, place in the freezer for 5-7 minutes.)
  4. Fill a cocktail shaker or mason jar with ice. Add the cooled cranberry-maple mixture and the bourbon. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
  5. Fill a lowball glass with fresh ice. Strain the cocktail into the glass.
  6. Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig (slap it between your palms to release oils), a few cranberries, and a strip of orange peel (twist over the glass to express oils). Serve immediately.

Notes

For a stronger rosemary flavor, let the rosemary infuse for an extra 2-3 minutes. If the drink is too tart, add a splash more maple syrup; if too sweet, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. For a non-alcoholic version, omit bourbon and top with ginger beer or sparkling water. The cranberry-maple base can be made up to 3 days ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple bourbon cranberry cocktail, fall cocktail, bourbon cocktail, cranberry cocktail, maple syrup cocktail, Thanksgiving drink, easy cocktail

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