Cherry Vanilla Bourbon Smash

If cocktails had a personality, the Cherry Vanilla Bourbon Smash would be the smooth-talking charmer with a wild side.

This drink is the ultimate combination of sweet, tangy, and a little bit sassy—perfect for when you want to impress your friends or treat yourself to a moment of indulgence.

It’s got the rich depth of bourbon, the luscious sweetness of cherry syrup, the warmth of vanilla, and the zing of fresh lemon juice. Top it off with fizzy soda and a juicy cherry garnish, and you’ve got yourself a drink that’s not just a cocktail—it’s an experience.

Perfect for Valentine’s Day, girls’ night, or even a fancy baby shower (mocktail it up for the moms-to-be!).

Ready to shake things up? Let’s dive in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz cherry syrup (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Splash of soda water
• Ice cubes (enough to fill your shaker and glass)
• Fresh cherry garnish (optional, but highly recommended)

Ingredient Breakdown

Bourbon: The star of the show! Bourbon brings a smooth, caramel-like richness to the drink. Choose a mid-range bourbon—you don’t need to splurge, but go for something you’d happily sip neat.

Cherry Syrup: This is where the magic happens. You can buy a quality cherry syrup, or better yet, make your own by simmering fresh or frozen cherries with sugar and water. Homemade syrup adds a touch of love (and bragging rights!).

Vanilla Extract: A tiny splash of vanilla extract adds warmth and depth, tying all the flavors together. It’s like the background singer that makes the lead vocalist shine.

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is non-negotiable. The tartness balances the sweetness and cuts through the richness of the bourbon.

Soda Water: The fizzy topper adds a refreshing effervescence that lightens up the drink. Don’t overdo it—a splash is all you need.

Fresh Cherry Garnish: Sure, it’s optional, but let’s be real: who can resist a drink that looks as good as it tastes?

How to Make a Cherry Vanilla Bourbon Smash

1. Prepare Your Tools: Grab a cocktail shaker, a strainer, and your favorite glass. A rocks glass works beautifully for this drink.

2. Add the Ingredients: Fill your shaker with ice and pour in the bourbon, cherry syrup, vanilla extract, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Pro tip: Add the liquids first before the ice for more precise measurements—because no one likes a watery drink!

3. Shake It Like You Mean It: Seal the shaker and give it a good shake for about 15-20 seconds. You’re looking for that satisfying frosty exterior on your shaker—a sure sign everything is beautifully chilled and mixed.

4. Strain and Serve: Fill your glass with fresh ice and strain the shaken mixture over it. Leave a little room at the top for the fizzy magic.

5. Top with Soda: Gently pour a splash of soda water over the drink. Stir lightly to combine without killing the bubbles.

6. Garnish with Flair: Pop a fresh cherry (or two!) onto a cocktail pick and rest it on the rim of your glass. It’s the cherry on top—literally.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Bourbon Smash

• Chill Everything: From your glass to your shaker, keeping things cold ensures your drink stays crisp and refreshing.
• Sweetness Adjustments: If you like your cocktails on the sweeter side, add an extra half ounce of cherry syrup.
• Mocktail Option: Swap the bourbon for sparkling water or ginger ale and double the cherry syrup for a booze-free version that still tastes amazing.

Whether you’re hosting a soirée or simply unwinding at the end of the day, the Cherry Vanilla Bourbon Smash is your ticket to a good time.

Cherry Vanilla Bourbon Smash Recipe

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