Are you ready to transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched orchard? This Peach Bourbon Smash is the perfect summer cocktail – easy to make, bursting with fresh peach flavor, and just the right amount of bourbon kick. It's the ideal drink for a warm evening on the patio, a backyard barbecue, or even a sophisticated night in. Forget complicated cocktails; this recipe is surprisingly simple, making it perfect for both seasoned mixologists and those just starting their cocktail journey. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious and refreshing homemade drink!
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
- 2 ounces bourbon (choose your favorite!)
- 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
- ¾ ounce simple syrup (recipe below)
- 4-6 mint leaves
- Sparkling water or club soda
- Ice
- Peach slices and mint sprigs for garnish
Making Simple Syrup:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely. Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat and let cool completely. This can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Instructions:
- Muddle the peaches: Gently muddle the peach slices in the bottom of a shaker. Don't over-muddle; you want to release the juices, not create a puree.
- Add the rest: Add the bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and mint leaves to the shaker.
- Shake it up: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
- Strain and serve: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Top it off: Top with sparkling water or club soda.
- Garnish: Garnish with a peach slice and a mint sprig.
Tips for the Best Peach Bourbon Smash:
- Peach Perfection: Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. The riper, the better!
- Bourbon Choice: Experiment with different bourbons to find your favorite profile. A smoother bourbon will complement the sweetness of the peach.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of simple syrup to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, start with less and add more to taste.
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh lemon juice and mint makes a noticeable difference in the taste.
- Chill Out: Make sure your shaker and glass are well-chilled for a perfectly refreshing cocktail.
Variations:
- Spicy Smash: Add a few slices of jalapeño to the shaker for a spicy kick.
- Raspberry Peach Smash: Muddle a few raspberries along with the peaches for a fruity twist.
- Peach Bellini: Substitute Prosecco or Champagne for the sparkling water for a celebratory twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on bourbon and simple syrup amounts)
- Carbohydrates: Around 20-25g
- Sugar: Approximately 15-20g
Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Peach Bourbon Smash is a delicious and refreshing cocktail perfect for any occasion. The simple recipe allows for customization to your taste, making it a versatile drink for both beginners and experienced cocktail enthusiasts. Enjoy this easy and healthy-ish treat responsibly!