A Cinnamon Whiskey Sour With a Spicy Kick for Thanksgiving

Bask in the warm, spiced embrace of a Cinnamon Whiskey Sour that's perfect for Thanksgiving, but discover how to elevate your holiday gatherings further.

What kind of recipe is it?

The Cinnamon Whiskey Sour is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail, perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations.

This drink combines the rich warmth of cinnamon with the smoothness of whiskey, creating a comforting and festive flavor profile. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a seasonal treat.

With its balance of sweetness and tartness, this cocktail caters to both whiskey enthusiasts and those new to spirits, making it a versatile addition to holiday gatherings.

Cheers to a memorable Thanksgiving!

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Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Whiskey 2 oz (60 ml)
Fresh lemon juice 3/4 oz (22.5 ml)
Simple syrup 1/2 oz (15 ml)
Ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp
Angostura bitters 2 dashes
Lemon wheel (for garnish) 1 slice
Cinnamon stick (for garnish) 1 stick
Ice cubes As needed (for shaking and serving)

Notes:

  • Make certain to use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
  • Simple syrup can be made by dissolving equal parts of sugar in hot water and letting it cool.
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Cooking Steps

  1. Gather all ingredients and tools: a cocktail shaker, measuring jigger, fine mesh strainer, and serving glass. Have ice cubes ready in the shaker.
  2. Measure and pour 60 ml (2 oz) of whiskey into the cocktail shaker.
  3. Measure and add 22.5 ml (3/4 oz) of fresh lemon juice to the shaker. Make sure you’re using freshly squeezed juice for ideal flavor.
  4. Add 15 ml (1/2 oz) of simple syrup to the mixture in the shaker. (If using store-bought, make sure it’s of good quality.)
  5. Sprinkle 1/4 tsp of ground cinnamon directly into the shaker.
  6. Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters to the shaker.
  7. Fill the shaker with ice cubes until it’s about three-quarters full, making sure of good chilling but not overflowing.
  8. Secure the lid on the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for about 15–20 seconds. Aim for the shaker to be cold to the touch; this indicates proper mixing and chilling.
  9. Take a fine mesh strainer and place it over the serving glass. Pour the mixture through the strainer into the glass to eliminate any ice shards and cinnamon clumps.
  10. Garnish the cocktail by placing a lemon wheel on the rim of the glass and adding a cinnamon stick for decoration and aroma.
  11. Serve immediately and enjoy the fragrant, spiced aroma with the visual appeal of the garnishes.
  12. If desired, adjust flavors by adding extra simple syrup or cinnamon to taste in subsequent servings.

Note: This recipe creates one cocktail; simply scale up ingredients as needed for more servings.

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Variations

  • Spiced Apple Whiskey Sour: Substitute 30 ml (1 oz) of fresh lemon juice with 30 ml (1 oz) of fresh apple cider for a fall-inspired twist.
  • Maple Cinnamon Whiskey Sour: Replace simple syrup with 15 ml (1/2 oz) of pure maple syrup to add depth and sweetness with a hint of earthiness.
  • Vegan Cinnamon Whiskey Sour: Use agave syrup instead of simple syrup for a plant-based sweetener, maintaining the drink’s vegan-friendly composition.
  • Smoky Cinnamon Whiskey Sour: Swap out regular whiskey for a smoky variant like mezcal, adding 60 ml (2 oz) for a bold flavor profile that complements the cinnamon.
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Tips on plating and presentation

cinnamon whiskey sour presentation tips

Creating an inviting presentation for your Cinnamon Whiskey Sour can elevate the experience for your guests.

Use a chilled glass to enhance the drink’s appeal. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a twist of citrus for a pop of color.

Consider serving it on a rustic wooden board alongside festive decorations to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that complements your Thanksgiving gathering.

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

cinnamon whiskey sour pairings

While you enjoy your Cinnamon Whiskey Sour, you might wonder what dishes would complement this delightful cocktail.

I recommend pairing it with savory roasted turkey, spiced sweet potatoes, or a warm apple crisp.

The cocktail’s cinnamon notes and spicy kick enhance the flavors of these dishes, creating a harmonious Thanksgiving feast.

Don’t forget to save room for dessert; it’s the perfect match!

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What drinks can I pair it with?

thanksgiving drink pairing suggestions

If you’re looking to elevate your Thanksgiving celebration, consider pairing your Cinnamon Whiskey Sour with a few select beverages.

A smooth bourbon or spiced rum can complement the whiskey’s warmth beautifully.

For something lighter, a crisp apple cider adds a revitalizing twist.

And don’t overlook a rich porter; its maltiness harmonizes well with the drink’s spice.

Cheers to flavorful pairings!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Another Type of Whiskey Instead of Cinnamon Whiskey?

You can use other types of whiskey like bourbon or rye. I often experiment with different flavors to find the right balance, so don’t hesitate to mix it up for a unique twist!

How Can I Adjust the Spice Level in the Cocktail?

I adjust the spice level by experimenting with ingredients. I add more or less cinnamon simple syrup, substitute different spices, or even incorporate a dash of hot sauce to find that perfect balance for my taste.

Is This Drink Suitable for Non-Drinkers?

No, this drink isn’t suitable for non-drinkers since it contains whiskey. However, I’ve often created mocktails by replacing whiskey with spice-infused soda, keeping the flavors vibrant while making it alcohol-free for everyone to enjoy!

Can I Make This Cocktail Ahead of Time?

Absolutely, I can make this cocktail ahead of time! I usually prep it a few hours in advance, just refrigerating it until serving. It still tastes great, and it saves time when guests arrive.

I love using Fireball for its bold flavor, but you might also enjoy Crown Royal’s cinnamon option. Both add a delightful kick to any cocktail. Give them a try and see which you prefer!