Maple Cinnamon Bourbon Drink: A Spicy, Sweet Winter Cocktail

Introduction

When winter arrives, cozy drinks with warm spices and rich flavors become a must-have. If you’re a fan of smooth bourbon, sweet maple syrup, and warming cinnamon, this Maple Cinnamon Bourbon Drink is the perfect seasonal cocktail for you. It’s bold, spicy, and slightly sweet, making it an ideal fireside sipper or holiday party drink.

I first discovered the magic of bourbon and maple syrup on a chilly winter night while visiting a cozy lodge. They served a simple bourbon cocktail sweetened with real maple syrup and infused with cinnamon, and from the first sip, I was hooked. The deep, smoky bourbon blended beautifully with the natural caramel-like sweetness of maple and the warm spice of cinnamon, creating a drink that was comforting, smooth, and absolutely perfect for cold weather.

This Maple Cinnamon Bourbon Drink is easy to make, deeply flavorful, and full of cozy winter warmth. Whether you’re sipping it by the fire, serving it at a holiday gathering, or just unwinding after a long day, this cocktail is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and boozy indulgence.

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The Perfect Winter Cocktail

This Maple Cinnamon Bourbon Drink is rich, smooth, and filled with warm flavors, making it a must-try seasonal cocktail. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Bourbon adds a bold, oaky depth.
• Maple syrup brings a natural, caramelized sweetness.
• Cinnamon gives it a warming, spiced kick.
• Fresh orange zest adds a bright citrus balance.
• It’s easy to make, requires only a few ingredients, and is perfect for winter nights!

Whether you enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of soda, this cocktail is a deliciously smooth way to warm up this winter.

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Picture Gallery

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Why Bourbon, Maple, and Cinnamon Work So Well Together

Bourbon: The Bold, Smoky Base

Bourbon has deep caramel, vanilla, and smoky notes that blend perfectly with maple syrup and warm spices, creating a smooth and cozy cocktail.

Maple Syrup: The Sweet, Natural Enhancer

Unlike regular sugar, maple syrup adds a complex, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with bourbon’s oaky richness.

Cinnamon: The Warming, Spicy Element

Cinnamon gives the drink a subtle heat and depth, making it feel extra festive and comforting.

Orange Zest: The Bright, Citrusy Balance

A little orange zest or juice adds a fresh, citrusy note that balances the richness and makes the drink more vibrant and well-rounded.

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How to Make a Maple Cinnamon Bourbon Drink

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (such as Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, or Buffalo Trace)
• ¾ oz pure maple syrup
• ½ oz fresh lemon juice
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (or 1 cinnamon stick for garnish)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel or zest (for garnish)
• Ice cubes

Optional Add-Ins:

• Splash of ginger beer or club soda (for a lighter, fizzy version)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for an extra smooth, dessert-like touch)

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Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, and bitters.
2. Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until well-chilled.

Step 2: Strain & Serve

1. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice or serve neat in a coupe glass.

Step 3: Garnish & Enjoy

1. Express the orange peel over the drink by holding it over the glass and giving it a twist to release the oils.
2. Drop the peel into the drink and garnish with a cinnamon stick for extra spice.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, smooth, and spicy warmth of winter!

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FAQ Section

1. Can I make this drink less sweet?

Yes! Simply reduce the maple syrup to ½ oz for a less sweet, more spirit-forward cocktail.

2. What’s the best type of bourbon to use?

Look for a smooth, slightly sweet bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes. Some great choices include:

• Woodford Reserve (rich and balanced)
• Buffalo Trace (smooth and slightly spicy)
• Maker’s Mark (sweet and caramel-like)

3. Can I make a large batch for a party?

Absolutely! To make a pitcher for 6-8 servings, mix:

• 1 bottle (750ml) bourbon
• ¾ cup maple syrup
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 8 dashes Angostura bitters
• Stir well and serve over ice with orange zest and cinnamon sticks.

4. Can I turn this into a warm drink?

Yes! For a hot toddy version, simply:

• Heat 1 cup of water and stir in bourbon, maple syrup, and cinnamon.
• Top with a lemon slice and cinnamon stick for extra warmth.

5. What’s the best way to add extra spice?

• Infuse the bourbon with a cinnamon stick for 24 hours.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Use ginger liqueur instead of bitters for a more complex spice.

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Variations

• Smoky Maple Bourbon Cocktail: Add ½ oz mezcal for a deep, smoky twist.
• Maple Cinnamon Old Fashioned: Muddle an orange slice and cherry before mixing.
• Vanilla Maple Bourbon Sour: Add 1 egg white for a smooth, foamy top.
• Spiced Maple Whiskey Smash: Muddle fresh mint and cranberries for a refreshing twist.
• Ginger Maple Bourbon Highball: Top with ginger beer for a bubbly version.

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When to Serve It

Cold Winter Nights by the Fire

A smooth, warming cocktail to sip while relaxing indoors.

Holiday Gatherings & Christmas Parties

A festive, crowd-pleasing bourbon drink that’s easy to make in large batches.

New Year’s Eve Toasts

A unique alternative to champagne cocktails with a bold, flavorful twist.

Après-Ski or Post-Holiday Shopping

The perfect way to warm up after a long winter day.

Pairing with Holiday Desserts

Pairs beautifully with pecan pie, cinnamon rolls, or dark chocolate truffles.

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Conclusion

This Maple Cinnamon Bourbon Drink is the ultimate winter cocktail, blending bold bourbon, smooth maple, and warm cinnamon into a rich and satisfying sip. Whether you enjoy it on the rocks, neat, or in a warm toddy, this drink is the perfect way to celebrate the cozy flavors of winter.

Try it out, customize it to your taste, and let me know how you like it! Cheers to a sweet, spicy, and bourbon-filled winter season! 🥃🍁🔥