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Bourbon Smash

A refreshing Bourbon Smash cocktail combining bourbon, fresh mint, lemon juice, and simple syrup for a vibrant, herbaceous drink that's easy to make in under five minutes.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Beverage, Cocktail
Cuisine: American
Calories: 165
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 ounces 60 ml Bourbon whiskey
  • 8 to 10 fresh mint leaves
  • 0.75 ounces 22 ml fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 ounces 15 ml simple syrup
  • 1 cup ice cubes for shaking and serving
  • 1 lemon wheel or twist for garnish
  • 1 fresh mint sprig for garnish

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker or mixing jar
  • Muddler or back of a wooden spoon
  • Jigger or measuring cup
  • Cocktail strainer
  • Bar spoon or long-handled spoon
  • Rocks glass or lowball glass
  • Cutting board for citrus and mint
  • Knife for slicing citrus

Method
 

  1. Lay out bourbon, fresh mint, lemon, simple syrup, and ice for smooth workflow.
  2. Select 8 to 10 fresh mint leaves, avoiding yellowed or damaged leaves, and lightly crush between fingers to check aroma.
  3. Place the mint leaves and simple syrup into the shaker or mixing jar.
  4. Gently muddle the mint with firm but controlled pressure for about 10 seconds until oils are released without pulverizing the leaves.
  5. Add 2 ounces of bourbon and 0.75 ounces of fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
  6. Fill the shaker three-quarters full with about 1 cup of ice cubes.
  7. Seal and shake vigorously for 10 to 12 seconds until the shaker is frosty and cold to the touch.
  8. Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass over fresh ice, leaving mint pulp behind.
  9. Garnish with a lemon wheel or twist and a fresh mint sprig and serve immediately.

Notes

Muddle gently and briefly; over-muddling mint releases bitter chlorophyll and destroys the herbaceous freshness.