Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour (Festive + Easy Cocktail Recipe)
If you like a traditional whiskey sour, then you’ll love my Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour which is perfect for the upcoming holiday season! It’s like a classic whiskey sour with extra flavor from orange juice and fresh cranberries. Plus, I use egg white for the perfect white foam top, which always elevates a classic cocktail. Add a sprig of fresh rosemary for the perfect holiday drink for your next happy hour at home.
Simple ingredients mean you want to strike the perfect balance of flavors; don’t skimp on a good whiskey for this cranberry orange whiskey sour recipe. If you’re looking for more winter flavors (and delicious recipes) during the colder winter months, check out my fried goat cheese balls, mini sausage rolls, sicilian arancini, turkey puff pastry pot pie, creamy sausage pumpkin soup, and tagliatelle al ragu!
And, if you are looking for more fall cocktails (cinnamon sticks galore!), try my cranberry aperol spritzer, pumpkin spice margarita, or pumpkin spice white russians! You can make any of these in a pitcher for entertaining.
Looking for some delicious holiday recipes? I have plenty! Try prosciutto-wrapped dates, marinated mozzarella balls, marinated goat cheese, prosciutto-wrapped figs, or lobster cakes! And for sides you’ll love my roasted maple balsamic brussels sprouts with pancetta, sweet potato cornbread, or creamy leek risotto.
Ingredients
- Bourbon Whiskey – Smooth, warming base that pairs beautifully with citrus and cranberry. Use a bourbon you’d sip on its own.
- Fresh Orange Juice – Adds natural sweetness and a sunny citrus note. Fresh-squeezed is best.
- Cranberry Juice – Tart and vibrant. Use 100% cranberry juice for brightness, or cranberry cocktail for extra sweetness.
- Simple Syrup – Blends the flavors and adds balance. Make at home to control sweetness.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – A pop of acidity that sharpens and brightens the cocktail.
- Egg White – Creates a creamy texture and frothy top. Dry shake first for the best foam.
- Garnish (Cranberries + Orange Slices) – Fresh garnishes look beautiful and echo the flavors inside.
- Bitters – A few dashes of orange or cranberry bitters add depth and aromatic complexity.
- Ginger – A splash of juice or muddled fresh ginger adds cozy, spicy warmth.
Substitutions and Additions
- Maple Syrup – Swap for simple syrup for rich, earthy sweetness—perfect for fall.
- Rye Whiskey – Use instead of bourbon for a spicier, drier kick that balances the tart flavors.
- Blood Orange Juice – A bold citrus swap with berry-like notes and a gorgeous color.
- Bitters – A few dashes (orange or cranberry bitters) add a nice festive twist!
How to Make a Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour
- Add the ingredients to your cocktail shaker, starting with your whiskey!
2. Next, add your fresh orange juice, lemon juice, cranberry juice, and simple syrup.
3. Lastly, add 1 egg white.
4. Shake vigorously without ice for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white and create a frothy texture.
5. Add ice to the shaker and shake again until the mixture is well-chilled, about 20 seconds. Strain the cocktail into a glass filled with fresh ice.
6. Top with fresh cranberries and an orange slice for a festive touch.
Easy Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Strainer
- Ice
- Glass for serving
Ingredients
- 2 ounces bourbon whiskey
- 1 ounce fresh orange juice
- 1 ounce cranberry juice
- 3/4 ounce simple syrup
- 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 1 egg white
- Ice
- Fresh cranberries and orange slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz bourbon, 1 oz fresh orange juice, 1 oz cranberry juice, 3/4 oz simple syrup, 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1 egg white. Shake vigorously without ice for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again for about 20 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled and frothy.
- Strain the cocktail into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and an orange slice.
Notes
Dry shake the egg white first (no ice) to get that perfect froth. Always use fresh citrus—bottled juice will flatten the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve in a coupe with cranberries and an orange slice for a festive touch. Pair with a cheese board or salty snacks to balance the tart-sweet sip.
Delicious and great for fall!