Brown Sugar Bourbon Cold Brew

Looking for a drink that’s part pick-me-up and part treat-yourself moment?

Enter the Brown Sugar Bourbon Cold Brew. It’s like your favorite coffee met a cozy winter cocktail at a holiday party, and they hit it off big time.

With the rich, caramel-like sweetness of brown sugar, the warm spice of bourbon, and the smooth, bold flavor of cold brew coffee, this drink is as versatile as your little black dress—or that hoodie you’ve been living in.

I love this recipe because it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ridiculously easy to make.

It’s smooth, bold, and sweet with just the right kick. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or even a mid-afternoon pick-me-up (I won’t tell).

Plus, it’s customizable—try swapping bourbon for rum or adding a dash of chocolate syrup for a mocha twist.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, toasting with friends, or just need a caffeinated cocktail to get through holiday gift wrapping, this drink is a great choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup cold brew coffee (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 oz bourbon (your favorite brand, but let’s keep it classy)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar syrup (see below for how to make it)
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup milk or cream (optional, for a creamier texture)
• Ice (because lukewarm coffee cocktails are a no-go)
• Optional garnish: Whipped cream, cinnamon, or a sprinkle of brown sugar

Ingredient Breakdown

Cold Brew Coffee: The backbone of the drink! Cold brew is smoother and less acidic than regular coffee, making it a perfect pairing for the sweet and spicy flavors of bourbon. You can grab a pre-made bottle or DIY it by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for 12-24 hours.

Bourbon: The star of the show. Choose a bourbon with notes of vanilla, caramel, or spice for the best flavor pairing. Not a bourbon fan? Whiskey works too!

Brown Sugar Syrup: A simple syrup made by dissolving equal parts brown sugar and water over low heat. This is where that deep, molasses-y sweetness comes from. Store-bought simple syrup won’t cut it here—brown sugar is the key.

Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors, giving the drink a cozy, dessert-like vibe.

Milk or Cream: Totally optional, but it takes the drink from “Wow, that’s good” to “Oh, this is dangerous!” If you’re dairy-free, almond or oat milk works beautifully.

Ice: Don’t skimp on the ice—it’s what keeps your cold brew…cold.

How to Make A Brown Sugar Bourbon Cold Brew

Step 1: Make the Brown Sugar Syrup

• Combine 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan.
• Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely.
• Let it cool and transfer to a jar or bottle. This syrup keeps for up to 2 weeks in the fridge—perfect for when you need a quick drizzle in cocktails, coffee, or even pancakes.

Pro Tip: Add a cinnamon stick or a pinch of nutmeg while heating the syrup for extra holiday vibes.

Step 2: Build Your Drink

1. Fill a glass with ice. Don’t hold back here—you want enough ice to keep the drink chilled but not watered down.
2. Pour in the cold brew. Add 1 cup of cold brew coffee to your ice-filled glass.
3. Add the bourbon. Measure out 2 oz of bourbon and pour it in. Feel free to adjust the amount based on how strong you like your cocktails.
4. Sweeten the deal. Stir in 2 tbsp of your homemade brown sugar syrup and 1/4 tsp vanilla extract. Give it a taste test. Too sweet? Add a splash more coffee. Not sweet enough? Drizzle in more syrup.
5. Cream or no cream? If you’re feeling fancy, pour in 1/4 cup of milk or cream. Watch it swirl—it’s a whole vibe.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

• Optional: Top with whipped cream, a dusting of cinnamon, or a sprinkle of brown sugar for that Instagram-worthy finish.
• Serve immediately with a straw (because no one likes cold lips).

Pro Tip: If you’re prepping for a party, set up a DIY cold brew cocktail bar. Pre-mix the cold brew, bourbon, and syrup, and let guests customize with milk and garnishes.

Brown Sugar Bourbon Cold Brew Recipe

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