It’s cranberry season! So, let’s keep that theme going with a delightful holiday drink—Cranberry Whiskey Sour. The perfect festive twist on a classic cocktail is easy for the home mixologist to prepare. It’s the perfect combo of sweet and sour and a great addition to every holiday party.

 

What’s a Whiskey Sour?

A whiskey sour was the go-to drink in the 50s and 60s.  This classic cocktail is made with whiskey, lemon juice and sugar (often as simple syrup). You shake them together with ice to chill then serve either straight up or over ice. The classic garnish is a slice of orange (or maybe lemon) and a maraschino cherry.

In our recipe, we use maple syrup as a healthier alternative to sugar, with a slice of lemon or lemon peel as garnish. The result is a festively colored, tangy yet sweet drink that can be enjoyed any time of year.

 

Why We Love These Ingredients

You probably know Cranberries are a standby remedy for UTI’s and for good reason. The special proanthocyanidians in cranberries prevent E. coli from attaching to the lining of your bladder and urinary tract which can keep pathogens at bay.  And thanks to their high fiber levels, Cranberries are also a digestive health superstar, thanks to their high fiber levels.

What’s more, the potent antioxidants in cranberries protect your brain and cardiovascular system as well as a defense against some cancers.

Lemons are packed with soluble fiber that improves digestion and helps maintain regular bowel movements.  In fact, the pectin in lemons helps improve gut health by increasing the digestion rate of starch and sugar. 

Lemons are also a high-antioxidant fruit that can promote weight loss and reduce your risk of heart issues, anemia and even kidney stones.

 

What Kind of Whiskey is Best?

You could use bourbon, rye [such as Canadian Club] or even an Irish whiskey. And it’s easy to double or triple this recipe for a bigger batch for party guests.

Cheers!

 

Cranberry Whiskey Sour

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Servings: 2

 INGREDIENTS

• 2 ounces Whiskey [such as Canadian Club]
• 4 ounces Cranberry Juice
• 2 TBSP fresh lemon juice
• 1 TBSP maple syrup
• 1 lemon slice for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker with crushed ice. Shake for 20-30 seconds until well combined.
2. Pour into glass with ice.
3. Garnish with lemon slice and serve.