Sweet, sour and absolutely delicious! This easy Homemade Whiskey Sour recipe is a home bartender’s delight!
Serve this recipe alongside raspberry mojitos at your next cocktail party to impress your guests.
What is a Whiskey Sour?
The whiskey sour is a popular cocktail that has a long history (rumored to go back to the Lincoln Administration). As the name suggests, it is sour, but the sweetness of the sugar as well as the bourbon offset and complement it perfectly.
What are the ingredients of a Whiskey?
- Bourbon or Whiskey
- Lemon Juice
- Sugar
- Maraschino Cherry & Lemon Peel for Garnish
Why Shake A Whiskey Sour?
The simple answer – it makes the cocktail ice cold and more pleasant to drink.
How do you make a Whiskey Sour?
Start with freshly squeezed lemon juice. 
Add all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker.
Add ice shake and strain into a glass with ice.
Serve garnished with lemon peel and Maraschino cherry.
Top Tip
- The key to the perfect whiskey sour is good quality bourbon like Bulleit, Woodford Reserve, or Jack Daniel’s.
- Fresh lemon juice is imperative – Bottled lemon juices just don’t taste good and affect the quality of your drink.
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Let's Make Homemade Whiskey Sour
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon whiskey
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon superfine sugar
- Lemon peel for serving
- Maraschino cherry for serving
Instructions
- Shake the whiskey, lemon juice, superfine sugar, well with ice.
- Strain into a cocktail glass (chilled if possible).
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and lemon peel.
Tips + Notes
- The key to the perfect whiskey sour is good quality bourbon like Bulleit, Woodford Reserve, or Jack Daniel's.
- Fresh lemon juice is imperative - Bottled lemon juices just don't taste good and affect the quality of your drink.
David A says
It’s pretty good, but next time I’m going to try to balance out the ratio of lemon juice to whiskey, because I can’t really taste the lemon.
Erren Hart says
Hi David, Thank you for taking the time to leave feedback.
shaye says
Love this! I use freshly squeezed lime juice PLEASE, don’t use bottled lemon juice. It’s so worth it!
Erren Hart says
I’m delighted to hear you liked it so much! 🙂
Erren's Kitchen says
Thank you Jon
Catalina says
This drink is perfect for a relaxing night! My husband will love it!
Erren's Kitchen says
I’m sure he will, Catalina!
Roadkill Joe says
I’m going to try this recipe it sounds really good. But Jack Daniels is not a bourbon and its not really quality.
Erren's Kitchen says
Of course you can use your favorite bourbon, enjoy 🙂
Beth says
Such a delicious classic drink! Perfect for entertaining!
Erren's Kitchen says
Thank you Beth, it really is!
Tiffany La Forge-Grau says
Homemade cocktails are so much fun to make. It is nice not having to go out to enjoy a nice drink.
Erren's Kitchen says
There is nothing like relaxing at home with a good cocktail is there, Tiffany!
Jacque Hastert says
I can’t wait to make this, this weekend! I love how simple it is to make at home.
Erren's Kitchen says
Thank you, Jacque!
Sara Welch says
Love a good cocktail with a kick! Looking forward to winding down with this classic drink tonight!
Erren's Kitchen says
I am pouring myself one as we speak 😉
Demeter says
This is a perfect find for my holiday party this weekend. I’ve been trying to bone up on all the classic drinks. Thanks!
Erren's Kitchen says
That is so awesome to hear, Demeter!