Blackberry Honey Bourbon Smash Recipe
Sweet honey and fresh muddled blackberries shaken up with comforting bourbon and just a splash of fresh lemon for an easy, go-to bourbon cocktail.
How to Make the Best Blackberry Honey Bourbon Smash
This Blackberry Honey Bourbon Smash is the perfect balance of sweet and strong, combining the sophistication of bourbon with the bright, fresh flavors of muddled blackberries and honey. It’s a cocktail that feels special enough for entertaining guests, yet simple enough to make on a Tuesday night.
Why This Bourbon Cocktail?
The beauty of this drink lies in its versatility and accessibility. Unlike some complex cocktails that require multiple specialty ingredients, the Blackberry Honey Bourbon Smash relies on just a few quality components that come together beautifully. The fresh blackberries add natural sweetness and a gorgeous deep color, while the homemade blackberry honey syrup elevates the drink from ordinary to unforgettable.
Tips for the Perfect Cocktail
Muddle the blackberries gently to avoid crushing the seeds, which can add bitterness. Use good-quality bourbon—your favorite mid-range choice will work perfectly. Shake the drink hard to properly chill and dilute it, which is essential for balancing the sweetness of the honey syrup with the spice and warmth of the bourbon. Serve immediately over fresh ice, and don’t forget that beautiful garnish of a few blackberries floating on top.
Blackberry Honey Bourbon Smash
Sweet honey and fresh muddled blackberries shaken up with comforting bourbon and just a splash of fresh lemon for an easy, go-to bourbon cocktail.
Ingredients
Blackberry Honey Syrup
Blackberry Honey Bourbon Smash
Instructions
Blackberry Honey Syrup
- Combine blackberries, honey, and water in a saucepan.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring until combined.
- Bring to a slow boil, reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer to a heat-proof storage container and cool completely.
Blackberry Honey Bourbon Smash
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle 3 fresh blackberries gently.
- Add bourbon and blackberry honey syrup to the shaker.
- Add a splash of fresh lemon juice.
- Fill with ice and shake vigorously for 10 seconds.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with muddled blackberries.
Notes
- Fresh blackberries work best, but frozen can be used as well.
- The blackberry honey syrup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For a lighter drink, reduce the syrup to 1 ounce.
- This cocktail is best served immediately after shaking.