We first tried this cocktail last Fall. That’s the time of year when Eric & I switch from light, Summer-y cocktails using gin and vodka, to more warming spirits like bourbon. But I held off on the posting of the recipe until the 2023 maple sugaring season was underway. That time is now and this cocktail showcases maple syrup beautifully!

Bourbon is sweetened with maple syrup and further enhanced with citrusy flavor from clementines along with some earthiness from fresh rosemary. Bitters add depth of flavor to the libation. We like orange or cardamom bitters for the sweetness and spiciness they bring to this cocktail, but regular bitters work as well.

Bourbon-Maple Cocktail

Bourbon Maple Cocktail

(adapted from sprinklesandsprouts.com)

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Makes: 2 drinks

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1 clementine
• 4-6 dashes orange or cardamom bitters
• 3 sprigs rosemary, divided

Instructions:

Muddle half of the clementine with the bitters and 1 sprig of the rosemary in a cocktail shaker.

Start by muddling half the clementine and some rosemary in a cocktail shaker.

Add ice to half fill the shaker. Pour the bourbon and maple syrup into the shaker.  Shake well for at least 30 seconds, until the outside of the shaker is covered in condensation.

Add ice to the shaker and shake until well chilled.

Add some ice into two short whisky glasses and strain the prepared cocktail into them.

Bourbon and maple syrup go so well together!

Garnish each cocktail with a fresh stem of rosemary and 2 segments of the clementine. Serve.

Love sugaring season!  ~Linda

Bourbon Maple Cocktail (adapted from sprinklesandsprouts.com) Prep Time: 5 minutes, Makes: 2 drinks

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1 clementine
• 4-6 splashes orange or cardamom bitters
• 3 sprigs rosemary, divided

Instructions:

Muddle half of the clementine with the bitters and 1 sprig of the rosemary in a cocktail shaker. Add ice to half fill the shaker. Pour the bourbon and maple syrup into the shaker.  Shake well for at least 30 seconds, until the outside of the shaker is covered in condensation.

Add some ice into two short whisky glasses and strain the prepared cocktail into them.

Garnish each cocktail with a fresh stem of rosemary and 2 segments of the clementine. Serve.