Whiskey Sour recipe

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A whiskey sour is a traditional American cocktail blending whiskey or bourbon with lemon and

whiskey sour
(Image credit: Future PLC)
  • healthy
Makes1
SkillEasy
Preparation Time2 mins
Total Time2 mins
Cost RangeMid
Nutrition Per PortionRDA
Calories188 Kcal9%
Sugar12.3 g14%
Salt0.06 gRow 2 - Cell 2
Protein1.6 g3%
Carbohydrates12.3 g5%
Salt0.06 gRow 5 - Cell 2
Keiron George's avatar
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last updated
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This simple and classic whiskey sour combines American bourbon whiskey with lemon and sugar.

It's not difficult to make, and it's a really classy recipe to have in your repertoire. The garnishes are optional, but it's worth getting them if you can. Half the glory of a cocktail is in the presentation, after all. Our whiskey sour recipe includes egg white for a silky mouthfeel and a signature layer of white foam. This means it's not suitable for vegans, but if you're looking for a vegan friendly version, see out tips below. This is a lovely after dinner cocktail, and a great way to end a romantic meal. 

Ingredients

  • 60ml bourbon
  • 20g lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 14g simple syrup
  • 14g egg white, approx half an egg white (optional)

To garnish:

  • Angostura bitters
  • Cocktail cherry and a slice of orange or peel of orange

WEIGHT CONVERTER

to

Method

  1. Place all of the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
  2. Garnish with a drop or two bitters, a cocktail cherry and a thin slice of orange or a curl of orange peel.

Top tips for making whisky sour

How can I make a vegan whiskey sour?

The egg white is optional but without it, you won't achieve a thick layer of foam and creamy mouthfeel. To make this recipe vegan you can simply leave out the egg white, or you can experiment with aquafaba. Aquafaba is the liquid leftover from boiling chickpeas. You can buy it ready-to-use in supermarkets.

Is it whisky or whiskey?

Whisky, with no 'e', refers to Scottish, Japanese and Canadian spirits. Whiskey, with an 'e', refers to US and Irish whiskies. Traditionally this drink is made with American rye whiskey or bourbon, so we've used the US spelling of the drink. You can use any kind of whisky (or whiskey) you like to make this drink.

What is sugar syrup and where can I buy it?

Sugar syrup is essentially a liquid form of sugar. You can buy it in supermarkets, often in the coffee section where it is shelved alongside flavoured coffee syrups. It's sometimes called Gomme. If you can't find any, it's really simple to make your own - see below.

Can I make my own sugar syrup?

Yes. Simply heat 300g white sugar in a pan with 150ml water. Stir until the sugar dissolves then transfer to a sterilised jar .

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Keiron George
Keiron George
Freelance Food writer

With over 12 years of experience, arts graduate Keiron turned to food to channel his creativity, specifically cake decorating. Keiron set up his wedding cake business in 2015. And, in late 2016 won a scholarship at the world-renowned culinary institute - Le Cordon Bleu, London, where he studied the art of French Pâtisserie. He's worked in some of London’s finest 5-star hotels, collecting a wealth of knowledge along the way. As a Food Writer and Stylist food isn’t just a job, it truly is Keiron's passion.