Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour is a fun twist on a classic cocktail! This drink mixes smooth whiskey with a hint of maple syrup and a splash of citrus for a refreshing taste.
I love how the smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of maple. It makes me feel like I’m at a cozy cabin, even if I’m just in my kitchen! 🥃
Making this drink is super simple—just shake it together and pour over ice. Perfect for impressing friends or just enjoying a quiet evening!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoky Scotch Whisky: A peated Islay whisky adds that signature smoky flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can use a smooth bourbon or rye whiskey instead, though it will change the drink’s character.
Maple Syrup: I recommend using real maple syrup for authenticity—darker syrup has a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, agave syrup or honey can work, but they will give a different taste.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key for that bright flavor—bottled juice just doesn’t compare. If lemons are not available, try using lime juice; it’ll offer a slight twist to the drink.
Egg White: The egg white gives a lovely frothy texture. If you’re not keen on using it, you can omit it altogether for a simpler drink or use aquafaba (chickpea water) for a vegan option.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Foam?
Creating a nice frothy foam is essential for this cocktail. Dry shaking is the trick! This means shaking the ingredients without ice first, which helps froth up the egg white. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine the whisky, maple syrup, lemon juice, and egg white in a shaker.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds—this emulsifies the egg white.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again until chilled—aim for 15-20 seconds this time.
- Strain into your glass, and you should have a lovely layer of foam on top!
Don’t forget to garnish; it adds to the experience and presentation!
Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz smoky Scotch whisky (e.g., a peated Islay whisky)
- 3/4 oz maple syrup (pure, preferably dark)
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz egg white (optional, for frothiness)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon twist, for garnish
- Ground black pepper or a few dashes of aromatic bitters, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 5 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect choice for enjoying a relaxing evening or impressing guests at a gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, add the smoky Scotch whisky, maple syrup, fresh lemon juice, and egg white (if using). Do not add ice just yet!
2. Dry Shake for Foam
Shake the mixture vigorously without ice for about 15 seconds. This dry shake helps emulsify the egg white, creating a lovely froth that will top your drink.
3. Shake with Ice
Now, add a handful of ice cubes to the shaker. Shake everything again for another 15-20 seconds to chill the mixture.
4. Strain Into Glass
Using a strainer, pour the mixture into a chilled coupe or old-fashioned glass. The frothy layer should sit beautifully on top.
5. Garnish the Drink
To finish, garnish with a lemon twist on the foam. If you like, sprinkle a tiny bit of ground black pepper or add a few dashes of aromatic bitters to enhance the flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour is ready to be enjoyed! Sip slowly and relish the smooth, smoky, sweet, and sour notes in your glass.
Can I Use a Different Type of Whisky?
Absolutely! While a smoky Scotch whisky adds unique flavors, you can use bourbon or rye whiskey for a different but equally delicious taste. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall character of the cocktail.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make a vegan version, simply omit the egg white or substitute it with aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas). It will give you a similar frothy texture without using animal products!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Cocktail?
This cocktail is best served immediately after preparation. If you want to keep it cool while serving, you can chill your glass in the freezer beforehand or use ice in your shakers when mixing. Just remember to strain it and avoid too much dilution.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh right after making it, but if you have leftovers, you can store the mixture (without ice or egg white) in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good shake again before serving. However, keep in mind that the frothiness will diminish if left too long!
