Blackberry Bourbon Sour Recipe

Blackberries: Fresh or frozen, these provide the fruity base for the cocktail.

Bourbon: The main spirit, adding depth and warmth to the drink.

Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed, it adds a bright, tangy contrast to the sweetness.

Simple syrup: A sweetener that balances the tartness of the lemon juice.

Ice: Essential for chilling and diluting the cocktail to the perfect consistency.

When muddling the blackberries, make sure to press firmly but gently to release their juices without breaking down the seeds too much. This will ensure a smooth texture and vibrant color in your cocktail.

• bourbon - Substitute with non-alcoholic bourbon alternative: This provides a similar flavor profile without the alcohol content, maintaining the essence of the drink.

• simple syrup - Substitute with agave syrup: Agave syrup is a natural sweetener that dissolves easily and has a neutral flavor, making it a great vegan-friendly alternative.

• ice - Substitute with frozen coconut water cubes: These add a subtle tropical flavor and keep the drink cold without diluting it as they melt.

• To store your Blackberry Bourbon Sour, transfer any leftover cocktail into an airtight container or a mason jar. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
• If you prefer to prepare the blackberry mixture in advance, muddle the blackberries and mix them with lemon juice and simple syrup. Store this mixture separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply add bourbon and ice, then shake and strain as usual.
• For freezing, pour the prepared Blackberry Bourbon Sour into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. These cocktail cubes can be stored for up to 1 month. To enjoy, simply place a few cubes in a glass and let them melt, or blend them for a slushy version.
• If you want to freeze the blackberry mixture separately, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze. Once solid, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. These can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cubes, mix with bourbon and ice, then shake and strain.
• Always label your containers with the date of preparation to keep track of freshness. This ensures you enjoy your Blackberry Bourbon Sour at its best quality.

• Pour the Blackberry Bourbon Sour into a small saucepan.
• Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to let it boil, as this can alter the flavor of the bourbon.
• Alternatively, you can pour the drink into a microwave-safe mug and microwave on medium power in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• If you prefer a cold drink, simply shake the leftover Blackberry Bourbon Sour with fresh ice in a cocktail shaker until chilled, then strain into a glass filled with ice.
• For an extra touch, add a fresh lemon slice or blackberry garnish before serving.

• Cocktail shaker: Used to mix and chill the ingredients thoroughly.

• Muddler: Essential for crushing the blackberries to release their juices and flavors.

• Strainer: Helps to separate the liquid from the blackberry pulp and seeds when pouring into the glass.

• Jigger: A measuring tool to ensure precise amounts of bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup.

• Citrus juicer: Useful for extracting fresh lemon juice efficiently.

• Ice cube tray: For making ice cubes to chill the drink.

• Glass: The vessel to serve the final cocktail, preferably a rocks glass.

• Bar spoon: Handy for stirring the drink if needed and for placing garnishes.

• Knife: Used to slice the lemon for garnish.

Use frozen blackberries: Save time by using frozen blackberries instead of fresh ones. They are already washed and ready to use.

Pre-made simple syrup: Buy pre-made simple syrup from the store to avoid the extra step of making it yourself.

Batch prep: Muddle a larger batch of blackberries and store in the fridge for quick assembly later.

Lemon juice substitute: Use bottled lemon juice to save the time spent on squeezing fresh lemons.

Efficient shaking: Use a cocktail shaker with a built-in strainer to streamline the process.