Sweet orange, fresh mint, and smooth whiskey mingle in this refreshingly different spin on the classic whiskey cocktail.
Orange Whiskey Smash
When you think of mixed drinks, whiskey is not always the first thing that pops into your mind as the starting point. Milder spirits such as rum or vodka can be easier to mix and are often top choices for creating drinks to serve a crowd.
But don’t fall into the trap of thinking that bourbon is “too strong” to use in mixing! It’s all about the right blend of ingredients that are complimented by the whiskey’s unique flavors.
There are so many tasty whiskey cocktails, but few are as crowd-pleasing as this Orange Whiskey Smash! The combination that barrel aged whiskey with the sweetness or orange makes a sweet, but not too sweet cocktail that is great for any occasion. And it’s easy to make!
What Is a “Smash” Cocktail?
A “smash” in the cocktail world is similar to a julep: spirits mixed with mint and sugar. A smash also has the addition of fruit.
A traditional whiskey smash is made with lemon, resulting in a tartness that balances well with the fresh mint and sugar. For this recipe, we swapped the sour lemon with sweet orange for a milder drink that is pleasant on the taste buds, but doesn’t hide the flavor of the bourbon.
Ingredients
- 3 orange slices
- 2 ounces bourbon or whiskey
- 1 ounce orange juice
- 3/4 ounce simple syrup
- 4 mint leaves
Garnishes
- Mint sprig
- Orange rind or orange slices
Helpful Bartending Tools
For your convenience, we’ve included shop-able ad links to products we love and use; disclosure policy available here.
- Cocktail Jigger (for measuring liquor amounts)
- Boston Cocktail Shaker Set (contains shakers, jigger, strainer)
- Muddler (A must for making a proper smash!)
Note: This recipe is intended for readers 21+
Instructions
- Add orange slices, orange juice, mint, and simple syrup to the bottom of an empty cocktail shaker. Use a muddler to blend the ingredients, smashing, but not completely destroying the fruit and mint.
- Add whiskey, add a handful of ice, and shake a few seconds to chill.
- Pour contents of the shaker into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint leaves and an orange rind or wedge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Use Sugar Instead Of Simple Syrup?
If you don’t have any simple syrup on hand, you can use a different type of sweetener. The next best thing might be another sweet syrup, such as agave syrup or even maple syrup.
If you want to use plain sugar, use slightly less as it is more concentrated. Keep in mind that granulated sugar will have a bit of texture to it, like that “crunch” you get in a mojito.
What Is The Best Type Of Whiskey To Use In A Whiskey Smash?
Because we’re mixing with citrus and mint, both strong flavors, I’d suggest opting for a whiskey or bourbon that is on the sweeter side. While you can use rye whiskey if that’s what you like, it wouldn’t be my top choice in this particular drink because the flavors don’t play as well together.
But as always, I recommend using the brand or style that YOU prefer, as you’re the one who will be drinking it!
More Whiskey Cocktails To Try:
Orange Whiskey Smash Recipe (Printable Recipe Card)
If you tried this recipe and liked it, please rate it!
Orange Whiskey Smash
Equipment
- Muddler
- Cocktail Shaker
Ingredients
- 3 orange slices
- 2 ounces bourbon or whiskey
- 1 ounce orange juice
- 3/4 ounce simple syrup
- 4 mint leaves
- Mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Add orange slices, mint leaves, orange juice, and simple syrup to the bottom of an empty cocktail shaker and muddle.
- Add bourbon and a handful of ice. Shake a few seconds to chill.
- Pour contents of the cocktail shaker into a cocktail glass and garnish with mint sprig and orange slice.
Notes
Nutrition
Pin Our Orange Whiskey Smash on Pinterest:
You might also like:
