Orange Bourbon Sour Recipe

The Orange Bourbon Sour brings together the sultry depth of bourbon with the fresh citrus zing of orange, all tied together with a hint of sweetness and a beautiful silky foam. This gorgeous cocktail is a true showstopper, perfect for happy hour or impressing friends at your next dinner party. Each sip balances nostalgia and novelty, and it’s impossible not to fall for its cheery color and layered flavors—orange and bourbon were just meant to be together. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or simply wanting to shake up your usual routine, the Orange Bourbon Sour is about to become your favorite treat in a glass.

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a few prime ingredients is all it takes to unlock an unforgettable Orange Bourbon Sour. Each component plays a starring role, so a little care in your selections will reward you with incredible balance and bold, sunny flavors.

• Bourbon: Go for a smooth, mellow bourbon—its oaky caramel notes form the backbone of this cocktail.
• Fresh orange juice: Squeeze oranges yourself for unbeatable brightness and a naturally sweet citrus punch.
• Fresh lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice sharpens all the flavors and keeps the drink lively.
• Simple syrup: Homemade or store-bought, this sweetener softens the citrus tartness and lets the bourbon shine.
• Egg white (optional): For that classic, velvety foam—skip it if you prefer a lighter, non-foamy sipper.
• Orange zest or wheel: Brings a burst of aroma, color, and a professional finish to your Orange Bourbon Sour.
• Ice: Chilling and diluting just right—never underestimate a handful of good, fresh ice cubes.

How to Make Orange Bourbon Sour

Step 1: Squeeze Fresh Citrus

Start by juicing your oranges and lemons. Fresh-squeezed juice really does set the Orange Bourbon Sour apart from anything made with bottled juice. Squeeze them right before making the cocktail for ultimate zing and aroma—it’s an easy little upgrade that pays off in the final sip.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Shaker

In a cocktail shaker, add the bourbon, fresh orange juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup. If you love that signature silky foam on a sour, crack in an egg white as well. The egg white is flavorless but gives the drink massive visual appeal and a creamy texture—just remember to shake vigorously!

Step 3: Dry Shake

If using egg white, first do a “dry shake” by shaking the ingredients together without any ice. This helps to whip up the perfect foam. About 15 seconds of energetic shaking is all it takes.

Step 4: Shake With Ice

Add a generous handful of ice cubes to the shaker and give everything another good shake. This chills the Orange Bourbon Sour and dilutes it just enough for a silky-smooth finish. Aim for about 20 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker is frosty cold.

Step 5: Strain and Serve

Strain your cocktail into a rocks glass over fresh ice or, for a more elegant presentation, into a coupe glass with no ice. Your Orange Bourbon Sour should be bright and frothy, just begging to be garnished.

How to Serve Orange Bourbon Sour

Garnishes

A classic Orange Bourbon Sour looks extra inviting with a slice or wheel of orange on the rim. Try a twist of orange zest for a perfumed burst as you sip. For a vivid pop of color, a maraschino cherry or a sprig of fresh rosemary lends a touch of sophistication and aroma.

Side Dishes

This citrusy sipper loves company: salty mixed nuts, spiced popcorn, or a sharp aged cheese plate all pair beautifully. Think of foods that can stand up to bold flavor—smoked meats, charcuterie, or even tangy olives make for satisfying nibbles alongside your Orange Bourbon Sour.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Orange Bourbon Sour in vintage crystal glasses for retro elegance, or pour it into mason jars for casual backyard fun. Feeling playful? Try mini versions in shot glasses for tasting parties, or float thin orange slices on top for a citrusy “sunset” effect. Don’t be afraid to get artsy with your garnishes—a flaming orange peel never fails to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve made a batch of Orange Bourbon Sour and have some left over, transfer it into a sealed glass jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will keep for about one day, but note that any foam will dissipate—garnish again and give it a gentle stir before serving.

Freezing

While a fully mixed Orange Bourbon Sour isn’t ideal for freezing, you can prep orange and lemon juice ahead and freeze them in ice cube trays. Pop out a few cubes, and you’ve got perfectly portioned citrus on hand anytime the craving hits. Avoid freezing a cocktail containing egg white, as the texture won’t be the same after thawing.

Reheating

This delightful drink is best enjoyed cold, not warm. If your Orange Bourbon Sour has been in the fridge, just pour it over fresh ice and maybe shake it briefly to revive the chill and blend everything back together. No need for anything more complicated!

FAQs

Can I make an Orange Bourbon Sour without egg white?

Absolutely! The egg white is just for texture and presentation—it won’t affect the essential flavor. If you skip it, you’ll still be rewarded with that iconic citrus-bourbon combo, just without the creamy foam top.

What’s the difference between an Orange Bourbon Sour and a classic Whiskey Sour?

While both drinks are based on the sour formula of spirit, citrus, and sweetener, the Orange Bourbon Sour includes fresh orange juice, which adds a sweet, floral layer that classic Whiskey Sours don’t have. It’s brighter, a bit more lush, and somehow feels both nostalgic and new.

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

If you’re in a pinch, bottled juice will work, but nothing replaces the pop and fragrance of freshly squeezed orange juice. Bottled often tastes flat or too sweet; that just-juiced freshness is key to a truly vibrant Orange Bourbon Sour.

Is there a non-alcoholic version I can make?

You bet! Swap the bourbon for a high-quality non-alcoholic whiskey alternative or even cold black tea for a fun twist. Mix with the citrus and simple syrup as directed and you’ll have a mocktail everyone can enjoy.

What kind of bourbon is best for this recipe?

Look for a bourbon that’s approachable and not too overpowering—something with caramel, vanilla, or citrus notes works perfectly. Brands like Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, or Elijah Craig are all excellent choices for a balanced Orange Bourbon Sour.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a drink that’s beautiful to look at and even better to sip, the Orange Bourbon Sour deserves a try. Share it with friends, serve it for a special occasion, or simply treat yourself—you’ll be amazed at how a few simple ingredients can create such a sunny, sophisticated cocktail. Cheers to discovering your new favorite!