Cutwater Whiskey Sour Recipe

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There’s something magical about unwinding at the end of a long day with a classic whiskey sour in hand. I first stumbled upon the Cutwater Whiskey Sour during a backyard BBQ with friends, a refreshingly tangy, yet smooth sip that instantly became my go-to cocktail.

What Is a Cutwater Whiskey Sour?

Cutwater Whiskey Sour is a ready-to-drink canned cocktail from Cutwater Spirits-made with their bourbon (Black Skimmer) and lemon liqueur.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Cutwater Whiskey (Feel free to use their bourbon or rye, depending on your flavor preference!)
• 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (Adjust to taste; homemade is best)
• Ice
• Optional: 1/2 oz egg white
• Garnish: Lemon wheel or cherry.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Shaker: If you’re opting for the egg white to add that creamy, frothy texture, start with a “dry shake” (shake ingredients without ice first) to help emulsify it.
2. Add the Ingredients: Pour Cutwater Whiskey, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup (and egg white, if using) into a cocktail shaker.
3. Shake It Up: Add ice to the shaker. Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds. (If you did an initial dry shake, add ice and shake again here.)
4. Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
5. Garnish: Top your drink with a lemon wheel, a cherry, or both, whatever feels special to you.

Tips:

• Fresh is Best: Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice. It brightens the flavor, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
• Homemade Simple Syrup: It’s just equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved—easy, cost-effective, and tastier than bottled versions.
• Egg White Option: This adds a luxurious texture, but if you’re wary about raw egg, leave it out. You’ll still get a delicious drink.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste before serving! Everyone’s lemon varies in acidity. If it’s too tart, add a touch more simple syrup.
• Chill Your Glass: Pop your glass in the freezer while you mix your cocktail; it will keep your whiskey sour delightfully cold for longer.

What To Serve With

Classic Bar Snacks:

• Roasted or Spiced Nuts: Almonds, cashews, or peanuts with a hint of spice complement the whiskey’s warmth.
• Pretzels or Pretzel Bites: The saltiness heightens the drink’s citrus flavors.
• Kettle or Sweet Potato Chips: Try a batch of homemade chips for a rustic touch.

Cheese & Charcuterie Boards:

• Cheese Pairings: A sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy goat cheese works beautifully.
• Meats: Salami, prosciutto, or smoked sausage are delicious complements.
• Accents: Add figs, grapes, or honey to highlight the cocktail’s citrus notes.

Small Plates & Appetizers:

• Mini Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli: Echoes the drink’s citrusy zing.
• Stuffed Mushrooms: Earthy flavors balance the sweet-and-tart sips.
• Buffalo Cauliflower or Wings: The cocktail’s lively profile stands up to spicy foods.

Entrees & Heartier Dishes:

• Grilled Steak or Burgers: The robust whiskey flavor complements charred meats.
• Barbecue Pulled Pork Sliders: Tangy whiskey sours cut through BBQ sweetness.
• Crispy Fried Chicken: For a Southern-inspired pairing.

Sweet Finishes:

• Lemon Bars: Citrusy desserts double down on the fresh vibe.
• Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The fruitiness balances the whiskey’s spice.
• Caramel Bread Pudding: Rich, comforting, and a great pairing for bourbon.

Ingredient Substitutes

Substitute Ingredients for Cutwater Whiskey Sour:

• Bourbon Whiskey: Offers sweetness and depth; ideal for whiskey sours.
• Rye Whiskey: Gives extra spice and complexity.
• Blended Whiskey: A gentle choice, less bold but still tasty.
• Irish Whiskey: Smoother and lighter, for a more delicate drink.

Lemon Juice:

• Bottled Lemon Juice: Less bright, but works in a pinch. Adjust the sweetness if it tastes more sour.
• Lime Juice: It’ll give your drink a zesty twist, resulting in a “Whiskey Daisy.”
• Lemonade: For a sweeter, less tart version, reduce the simple syrup to balance.

Simple Syrup:

• Honey Syrup: Mix equal parts honey and warm water. Adds floral notes!
• Agave Syrup: Sweeter and lighter; use a little less than you would simple syrup.
• Maple Syrup: For a unique, earthy sweetness pairs well with bourbon.
• Granulated Sugar: Stir or shake vigorously to dissolve in the mix.
• Stevia or Other Sweeteners: Use sparingly if you want a sugar-free option.

Egg White (Optional):

• Aquafaba: The liquid from canned chickpeas; use 1/2 oz for a vegan option.
• Foaming Bitters: Some cocktail bitters help create a frothy top.
• Nothing at all: Your whiskey sour will be more classic and less creamy and it’s totally fine!

Garnishes:

• Orange Slice or Zest: Adds citrusy aroma.
• Berry (strawberry, blueberry): A splash of color.
• Mint Sprig: A fresh pop.

Final Thoughts

Bringing it all together, the Cutwater Whiskey Sour is more than just a cocktail it’s an invitation to unwind, connect, and savor the moment, whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself to a relaxing evening at home.

More Recipe:

• Copycat Tillamook Ice Cream Mudslide Recipe