Bourbon Citrus Smash

Intro

Meet your new “I deserve something delicious” drink: the Bourbon Citrus Smash. Fresh citrus, muddled sweetness, and a hit of bourbon that ties everything together. It’s bright, cosy, and dangerously easy to sip — basically a sunshine-meets-winter cocktail.

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Close-up vertical image of a Bourbon Citrus Smash cocktail with muddled orange, lemon, honey, mint leaves, and ice on a rustic table.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1 oz fresh orange juice
  • 1 tbsp honey or simple syrup
  • 2–3 fresh mint leaves
  • 1–2 orange slices, for muddling
  • Ice cubes
  • Extra mint + orange slice, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Add the orange slices, mint leaves, and honey to a shaker. Muddle gently until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the bourbon, lemon juice, and orange juice.
  3. Add ice and shake until the shaker feels frosty.
  4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
  5. Garnish with fresh mint and an orange slice. Sip and enjoy.

Tips / Variations

  • Sweeter version: Swap honey for maple syrup.
  • More citrus punch: Add a splash of grapefruit juice.
  • Fizzy twist: Top with a little soda water.
  • Herb swap: Basil works beautifully if you’re out of mint.

Serving Ideas

Perfect for cosy nights, weekend brunches, or when you want a cocktail that feels fancy but takes less time than finding your cocktail shaker (no judgement).

Storage

Best enjoyed fresh — citrus muddles don’t store well. If you must prep ahead, mix the juices and bourbon separately and add muddled ingredients right before serving.

More Bourbon Recipes

In the mood for something creamy and cozy? Explore more bourbon goodness here:

→ See the full roundup of 7 Creamy Bourbon Cocktails for All Seasons

Bourbon Accessories You’ll Love

Build the perfect bourbon setup at home with these classic and modern essentials.

Heavy-Base Whiskey Glasses (Set of 4)

Classic, weighty, and perfect for neat pours or bourbon cocktails.

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Large Clear Ice Cube Tray

Slow-melting cubes that chill bourbon without watering it down.

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Whiskey Stones (Chill Without Dilution)

Keeps bourbon cold while preserving its rich flavour.

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Crystal Decanter Set

A beautiful way to serve and display your favourite bourbon.

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Premium Whiskey Tasting Glasses

Enhances aroma and flavour — great for sipping sessions.

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Stainless Steel Jigger (2-in-1)

Precise measurements for perfectly balanced bourbon drinks.

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Sphere Ice Mold (Set of 2)

Slow-melting ice spheres ideal for smooth bourbon pours.

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Natural Wood Bar Board

Perfect for slicing citrus, garnishes, or prepping cocktail add-ons.

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