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Hot Maple Bourbon Cocktail With Cinnamon - A Cozy, Sweet-and-Spiced Warmer

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ounces bourbon (choose a smooth, mid-proof bourbon, around 90 proof)
  • 3/4 ounce pure maple syrup (Grade A amber or dark for richer flavor)
  • 4–5 ounces hot water (just off the boil)
  • 1 cinnamon stick (plus extra for garnish, if you like)
  • 2–3 dashes aromatic bitters (optional, but adds depth)
  • 1 small strip of lemon peel (or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice)
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional garnish)
  • Orange peel (optional, for a softer citrus note)

Method
 

  1. Warm your mug. Pour hot water into your mug to heat it, then discard. A warm mug keeps the drink hot longer and helps the aromas open up.
  2. Heat the water. Bring fresh water to just below boiling. You want it hot, not rolling-boil harsh. Water that’s too hot can mute delicate notes.
  3. Add maple and cinnamon. To your warm mug, add the maple syrup and a cinnamon stick. Pour in the hot water and stir until the maple dissolves.
  4. Pour in the bourbon. Add the bourbon and stir gently. This keeps the alcohol aroma pleasant instead of sharp.
  5. Brighten with citrus. Express a strip of lemon peel over the mug by twisting it to release oils, then drop it in. Or add a small squeeze of lemon juice—about 1 teaspoon. This lifts the sweetness and balances the spice.
  6. Optional bitters and garnish. Add 2–3 dashes of aromatic bitters for extra complexity. Finish with a light dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg if you want a cozy aroma on the nose.
  7. Taste and adjust. If you want it sweeter, add a touch more maple. If it’s too strong, top with a splash more hot water.