Whiskey Sour Cocktail Recipe

Whiskey Sour is a beloved classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for centuries. The refreshing blend of whiskey, tart lemon juice, and sweet simple syrup is elevated with the addition of frothy egg white, making this drink a delight for all the senses. It's perfect for any occasion, whether a casual evening at home or a festive gathering.

Photos of Whiskey Sour Cocktail Recipe

While most of the ingredients for a classic whiskey sour are easily accessible, you may need to make a note of a couple of items. Angostura bitters might not be a regular in your pantry, but it’s a key ingredient in many cocktails. It brings a complex aromatic profile that enhances the flavors. Likewise, the egg white might seem unusual, but it adds a luxurious texture to the cocktail. Remember to choose fresh, high-quality eggs.

Ingredients for the Classic Whiskey Sour Cocktail

Whiskey: The backbone of this cocktail, whiskey adds a depth and warmth to the drink. Bourbon is commonly used for its sweeter profile.

Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds the necessary tartness to balance out the sweetness of the drink.

Simple syrup: A staple in many cocktails, simple syrup is a sweetener that blends easily with the other ingredients.

Egg white: While optional, an egg white gives your whiskey sour a smooth, creamy texture and a beautiful frothy top.

Ice: Chills and dilutes the cocktail to the perfect sipping strength.

Angostura bitters: These add a subtle complexity to the cocktail, enhancing the flavor.

One reader, Angelique Gilchrist says:

This classic whiskey sour recipe is a game-changer! The blend of whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup creates a perfect balance of sweet and sour. The addition of egg white gives it a velvety texture, and the touch of bitters adds a delightful twist. A must-try for any cocktail enthusiast!

Angelique Gilchrist

Mastering the Techniques for a Classic Whiskey Sour

How to prepare the cocktail shaker: Before using the cocktail shaker, make sure it is clean and dry. This will ensure that the flavors of the cocktail are not affected by any residue from previous use.

How to strain the cocktail: When straining the cocktail into the glass, hold the strainer close to the glass to prevent any ice or pulp from getting into the drink. This will result in a smoother texture and appearance for the cocktail.

How to drop the bitters on top: Hold the bitters bottle close to the surface of the cocktail and gently squeeze to release 2-3 drops on top. This will create a visually appealing and aromatic finish to the cocktail.

How To Make Whiskey Sour Cocktail

A mix of whiskey, fresh lemon juice, syrup, and egg white, this whiskey sour cocktail is a classic drink shaken to get a nice foamy top.

Preparation: 2 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 2 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2ozwhiskey
¾ozlemon juice,freshly squeezed
½ozsimple syrup
1egg white
ice
2-3dropsangostura bitters,optional

Instructions

Add the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker, then add the egg white. Shake, without ice for 60 seconds.
Add ice to the shaker and shake again for 30 seconds. Strain into a cocktail glass and drop the bitters on the top. Serve!

Nutrition

Calories: 198.55kcal
Fat: 0.10g
Saturated Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.00g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.00g
Carbohydrates: 12.08g
Fiber: 0.06g
Sugar: 11.10g
Protein: 2.95g
Sodium: 52.83mg
Calcium: 4.97mg
Potassium: 75.00mg
Iron: 0.57mg
Vitamin C: 8.23mg

Expert Technique Tip for Elevating Your Whiskey Sour

When shaking your whiskey sour cocktail, it's important to give it a good, hard shake. This is especially crucial when you're using an egg white. The vigorous shaking helps to emulsify the egg white, creating a frothy, creamy texture that's characteristic of a well-made whiskey sour. Remember, the first shake is without ice to allow the ingredients to properly mix and the second shake with ice to chill the drink. This method is known as a 'dry shake' followed by a 'wet shake'.

Time-Saving Tips for Making a Whiskey Sour Cocktail

Prep ahead: Prepare the simple syrup and squeeze the lemon juice in advance to save time when making the cocktail.

Use a citrus squeezer: A citrus squeezer can help you quickly and efficiently extract the lemon juice without making a mess.

Double the batch: Consider making a larger batch of the cocktail and storing it in the refrigerator for future use, saving time on preparation when you want to enjoy another whiskey sour.

Substitute Ingredients For Whiskey Sour Cocktail Recipe

whiskey - Substitute with bourbon: Bourbon has a similar flavor profile to whiskey and can be used as a substitute in a whiskey sour cocktail.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can be used as a substitute for lemon juice to add a slightly different citrus flavor to the cocktail.
simple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar can be used as a natural sweetener in place of simple syrup, adding a different depth of sweetness to the cocktail.
egg white - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, can be used as a vegan alternative to egg white to create a frothy texture in the cocktail.
angostura bitters - Substitute with orange bitters: Orange bitters can be used as a substitute for angostura bitters, adding a different citrusy and aromatic flavor to the cocktail.

How to Beautifully Present a Whiskey Sour

Elevate the glassware: Present the classic whiskey sour in a crystal-cut rocks glass to add a touch of sophistication and elegance to the presentation.
Garnish with precision: Carefully place a delicate lemon twist on the rim of the glass, ensuring it is meticulously cut and adds a pop of vibrant color to the cocktail.
Incorporate a branded coaster: Place the cocktail glass on a branded coaster to add a personalized touch and showcase attention to detail.
Utilize ambient lighting: Present the cocktail in an area with soft, warm lighting to create an inviting ambiance that complements the rich hues of the whiskey sour.
Opt for a refined serving tray: Serve the cocktail on a sleek serving tray to add a touch of sophistication and ensure a polished presentation.
Pair with a complementary palate cleanser: Accompany the whiskey sour with a small, artfully arranged platter of fresh berries to provide a refreshing and visually appealing contrast to the cocktail.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Whiskey Sour

Cocktail shaker: A container used for mixing and chilling cocktails. It usually consists of a metal or glass container with a strainer and a cap.
Jigger: A small measuring device used to accurately pour and measure liquid ingredients for cocktails.
Citrus juicer: Used to extract juice from lemons or other citrus fruits. It can be a handheld or electric tool.
Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and layering drinks. It typically has a twisted handle for easy stirring.
Strainer: A tool used to separate ice from the cocktail when pouring it into a glass. It ensures that only the liquid is poured.

Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Whiskey Sour Mix

The classic whiskey sour cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply pour the cocktail into an airtight container and keep it chilled until you're ready to serve again.
If you want to prepare the cocktail in advance, you can mix the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup together and store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, add the egg white and shake as directed in the recipe.
While it's not recommended to freeze the entire cocktail, you can freeze the lemon juice and simple syrup separately in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 3 months. When you're ready to make the cocktail, simply thaw the cubes, add the whiskey and egg white, and shake as directed.
If you have leftover egg whites, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Use them in other cocktail recipes or for baking purposes.
To ensure the best quality and flavor, always use fresh ingredients when making the classic whiskey sour cocktail. If you notice any off smells or flavors in your stored ingredients, it's best to discard them and start with fresh components.

Fascinating Trivia About the Whiskey Sour Cocktail

Whiskey sour is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for over a century. It is believed to have originated in the 19th century and has remained a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts. The addition of egg white in the recipe gives the drink a creamy texture and a frothy top, adding a unique touch to the cocktail. This classic cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and strong flavors, making it a timeless favorite for many.

Is Making a Whiskey Sour at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this whiskey sour recipe largely depends on the quality of ingredients. While whiskey and lemon juice can be pricier, simple syrup and egg whites are budget-friendly. The angostura bitters are a small additional cost. Overall, this cocktail can be moderately cost-effective for a household. Rating: 8/10. Approximate cost: $20-$25 for a household of 4.

Is a Whiskey Sour Cocktail Healthy or Unhealthy?

The classic whiskey sour cocktail recipe is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The main ingredient, whiskey, is an alcoholic beverage that provides empty calories and has no nutritional value. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to various health issues, including liver damage and an increased risk of certain cancers.
The recipe includes simple syrup, which is essentially a concentrated sugar solution. Consuming too much added sugar can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.
The egg white, while providing some protein, also adds to the overall calorie count of the drink without offering significant nutritional benefits.

However, there are a few redeeming qualities:

Lemon juice is a good source of vitamin C and can help balance the sweetness of the simple syrup.
Angostura bitters, used in small amounts, may have some digestive benefits due to their herbal ingredients.

To make this cocktail healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of whiskey to lower the alcohol content and calorie count. You can also opt for a lower-proof whiskey or replace some of the whiskey with a non-alcoholic spirit alternative.
Replace the simple syrup with a natural sweetener like honey or agave nectar, which contain some trace nutrients. Alternatively, you can use a sugar-free sweetener to minimize added sugar intake.
Instead of using an egg white, you can achieve a similar frothy texture by using aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) or a foaming agent like Ms. Better's Bitters Miraculous Foamer.
Add a splash of soda water to increase the volume of the drink without adding calories, which can help you consume less alcohol overall.
Garnish the cocktail with a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint to add a pop of color and some extra flavor without significantly impacting the nutritional value.

Editor's Take: My Honest Opinion on This Whiskey Sour Recipe

This classic whiskey sour cocktail recipe is a timeless favorite. The combination of whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup creates a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. The addition of egg white gives the cocktail a velvety texture, while the angostura bitters add a subtle complexity to the drink. The shaking process is crucial to achieving the ideal frothy consistency. Overall, this recipe is a delightful choice for those who appreciate a well-crafted, traditional cocktail. Cheers!

Enhance Your Whiskey Sour Cocktail Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Sweet dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon for the perfect combination of sweet and savory.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Juicy pineapple slices grilled to caramelized perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness and smoky flavor.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Rich and creamy risotto infused with earthy mushrooms and finished with a touch of parmesan for a decadent side dish.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tender Brussels sprouts roasted with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Cocktail Alternatives to the Classic Whiskey Sour

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy mushroom risotto is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy risotto is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Grilled Peach and Prosciutto Salad: This grilled peach and prosciutto salad is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy grilled peaches pair perfectly with the salty prosciutto, creating a refreshing and satisfying salad.

Spicy Thai Coconut Soup: This spicy Thai coconut soup is a burst of flavors in every spoonful. The combination of creamy coconut milk and spicy Thai flavors creates a comforting and aromatic soup that is perfect for any occasion.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Your Whiskey Sour Cocktail

Appetizers:

Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Indulge in the perfect combination of sweet and savory with these bacon-wrapped dates. The crispy bacon complements the tender dates, creating a mouthwatering appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the savory filling, creating a bite-sized treat that is sure to impress.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples, a crispy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Whiskey Sour Cocktail Recipe:

This recipe offers a perfect balance of whiskey and lemon juice, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The addition of simple syrup and a touch of egg white gives the cocktail a smooth and velvety texture. The careful shaking process ensures a frothy and luxurious consistency. The finishing touch of angostura bitters adds depth and complexity to the drink. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe, as it promises a delightful and well-crafted cocktail experience.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Whiskey Sour Cocktail Recipe in the Cooking Techniques forum section.

FAQ:

What type of whiskey is best for a whiskey sour?

I recommend using a good quality bourbon or rye whiskey for a classic whiskey sour. The whiskey should have a smooth and balanced flavor that complements the citrus and sweetness of the cocktail.

Can I omit the egg white from the recipe?

Yes, you can omit the egg white if you prefer. The egg white adds a frothy texture and a silky mouthfeel to the cocktail, but if you have concerns about consuming raw egg, you can leave it out. The cocktail will still be delicious without it.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice is always preferred for the best flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice if that's what you have on hand. Just be aware that the flavor may not be as bright and fresh as using freshly squeezed lemon juice.

What can I use as a substitute for simple syrup?

If you don't have simple syrup, you can substitute it with a small amount of granulated sugar. Just muddle the sugar with the lemon juice in the shaker before adding the other ingredients to ensure it dissolves properly.

Can I make a large batch of whiskey sours for a party?

Absolutely! You can multiply the ingredients to make a larger batch of whiskey sours. Just be sure to shake them in batches to maintain the proper texture and frothiness, and serve them over ice in individual glasses.