The Cinnamon Whiskey Sour is a warm, spiced twist on the timeless whiskey sour — a cocktail that perfectly balances sweet, sour, and strong. By infusing the classic recipe with cinnamon syrup, this version adds a cozy, aromatic depth that makes it ideal for fall and winter. The combination of smooth bourbon, bright lemon juice, and the comforting spice of cinnamon creates a drink that’s both refreshing and warming. It’s the kind of cocktail that feels equally at home at a holiday party or by the fireplace on a chilly evening.
The essence of the Cinnamon Whiskey Sour lies in its balance. The bourbon provides warmth and richness, the lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, and the cinnamon syrup brings sweetness and spice. The result is a cocktail that’s smooth, layered, and perfectly seasonal. It’s simple to make yet sophisticated enough to impress guests.
This recipe works because it builds on the classic whiskey sour formula — whiskey, citrus, and sweetener — but replaces simple syrup with cinnamon syrup for a festive twist. The cinnamon enhances the bourbon’s natural caramel and vanilla notes, while the lemon keeps the drink lively and balanced.
Ingredients and Their Roles
Bourbon or whiskey: The base spirit, providing warmth and depth. Lemon juice: Adds acidity and freshness to balance the sweetness. Cinnamon syrup: Infuses the drink with sweetness and spice. Egg white (optional): Adds a silky texture and frothy top. Ice: Chills and slightly dilutes the drink for smoothness. Garnish: Cinnamon stick or lemon twist for aroma and presentation.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients (for 1 serving)
60 ml bourbon or whiskey 30 ml fresh lemon juice 20 ml cinnamon syrup (see below) 1 egg white (optional) Ice cubes Cinnamon stick or lemon twist for garnish
Preparation
If using egg white, add all ingredients (except ice) to a shaker and dry shake (without ice) for 10 seconds to create foam. Add ice and shake again for 15–20 seconds until well chilled. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice or serve straight up in a coupe glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or lemon twist.
How to Make Cinnamon Syrup
Combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 3 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes. Strain and store in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Adjust sweetness by adding more or less cinnamon syrup. Shake vigorously to create a smooth, frothy texture. Use high-quality bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes. Garnish thoughtfully for aroma and presentation.
Variations and Flavor Combinations
Classic Cinnamon Whiskey Sour: Traditional version with bourbon, lemon, and cinnamon syrup. Maple Cinnamon Whiskey Sour: Replace syrup with maple syrup for a richer flavor. Apple Cinnamon Whiskey Sour: Add a splash of apple cider for a fall twist. Spiced Orange Whiskey Sour: Add orange juice or zest for brightness. Honey Cinnamon Whiskey Sour: Use honey syrup instead of sugar for a floral note. Vegan Whiskey Sour: Skip the egg white or use aquafaba for foam.
Serving Suggestions
The Cinnamon Whiskey Sour pairs beautifully with roasted nuts, cheese platters, and savory appetizers. It complements fall dishes like roasted squash, glazed ham, or apple pie. Serve it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy winter gathering. It’s also perfect as a signature cocktail for holiday parties or intimate dinners.
Make-Ahead and Batch Preparation
Make-ahead: Mix the bourbon, lemon juice, and cinnamon syrup in advance and chill. Add ice and shake before serving. Batch version: For 6 servings, combine 360 ml bourbon, 180 ml lemon juice, and 120 ml cinnamon syrup in a pitcher. Stir well and refrigerate. Shake each portion with ice before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 190 kcal Carbohydrates: 14 g Sugar: 12 g Alcohol: 14 g
The History of the Whiskey Sour
The whiskey sour dates back to the mid-19th century and remains one of the most beloved classic cocktails. Originally made with whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar, it was designed to balance the spirit’s strength with sweetness and acidity. The Cinnamon Whiskey Sour is a modern adaptation that adds warmth and spice, making it perfect for cooler months.
Flavor and Texture Profile
The perfect Cinnamon Whiskey Sour is smooth, spiced, and balanced. The bourbon provides depth and warmth, the lemon juice adds brightness, and the cinnamon syrup brings sweetness and complexity. The optional egg white adds a creamy texture and a beautiful frothy top. Each sip is a harmony of sweet, sour, and spicy notes that linger pleasantly.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Too sweet: Reduce the cinnamon syrup or add more lemon juice. Too tart: Add a touch more syrup. Flat flavor: Use fresh lemon juice and high-quality bourbon. Overpowering spice: Use fewer cinnamon sticks in the syrup. Watery drink: Shake briefly but vigorously to chill without over-diluting.
Bartender’s Tips
Use large ice cubes to slow dilution. Chill the glass before serving for a crisp experience. Add a dash of bitters for extra depth. Rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for a festive touch. Serve in a coupe glass for elegance or a rocks glass for a classic look.
Pairing Ideas
With Food: Pair with roasted meats, spiced desserts, or cheese boards. Serve with apple crisp, pecan pie, or ginger cookies. With Occasions: Perfect for fall dinners, Thanksgiving, or Christmas. Ideal for cocktail hours, weddings, or cozy nights by the fire.
The Joy of Seasonal Cocktails
The Cinnamon Whiskey Sour embodies the joy of seasonal cocktails — simple ingredients transformed into something warm and inviting. It’s a drink that celebrates the flavors of fall and winter, combining the richness of bourbon with the spice of cinnamon and the brightness of citrus. It’s comforting yet refreshing, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
The Science of Balance in Cocktails
The success of the Cinnamon Whiskey Sour lies in the balance of sweet, sour, and strong elements. The bourbon provides the base (strong), the cinnamon syrup adds sweetness, and the lemon juice contributes acidity. This trio creates harmony, while the shaking process emulsifies the ingredients, creating a smooth, cohesive texture.
Presentation and Finishing Touches
For a stunning presentation, serve the Cinnamon Whiskey Sour in a chilled glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, a lemon twist, or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. For a festive touch, rim the glass with cinnamon sugar or add a dehydrated orange slice. The warm amber color and aromatic garnish make it visually irresistible.
Modern Variations
Keto Version: Use sugar-free cinnamon syrup. Vegan Version: Use aquafaba instead of egg white. Low-Calorie Version: Reduce syrup and use a lighter bourbon. Gourmet Version: Add a splash of amaretto or orange liqueur. Dessert Version: Serve over vanilla ice cream for a boozy float.
The Perfect Sip
The perfect sip of a Cinnamon Whiskey Sour is smooth, spiced, and balanced. The bourbon’s warmth meets the cinnamon’s sweetness, while the lemon adds a refreshing lift. The frothy texture (if using egg white) adds a luxurious mouthfeel. It’s a drink that feels like autumn in a glass — cozy, elegant, and full of flavor.
Conclusion
The Cinnamon Whiskey Sour is warm, spiced, and perfectly balanced — a cocktail that captures the essence of fall and winter. With its blend of bourbon, lemon, and cinnamon syrup, it’s ideal for holiday gatherings, cozy nights, or festive celebrations. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s a modern twist on a classic that combines comfort and sophistication. This recipe proves that with a few simple ingredients and a touch of creativity, you can create a cocktail that’s both timeless and seasonal — a true celebration of warmth and flavor in every sip.
