Citrus-Basil Whiskey Sour
A vibrant whiskey sour twist with fresh basil and bright citrus juices that adds herbal complexity to this popular classic. This recipe, ready in about 7 minutes, brings together bourbon whiskey, fresh lemon juice, fresh orange juice for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 195 calories and feeds 1, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz fresh orange juice
- 0.75 oz simple syrup
- 4 fresh basil leaves
- enough to fill shaker ice cubes
- 1 for garnish basil sprig
- 1 for garnish orange twist
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Equipment for this recipe
Tools this recipe's steps call for, with a link to each on Amazon.
Instructions
- Step 1: In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle 4 fresh basil leaves to release aroma but avoid tearing.
- Step 2: Add 2 oz bourbon whiskey, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, 0.5 oz fresh orange juice, and 0.75 oz simple syrup.
- Step 3: Fill the shaker with ice cubes to the brim and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Step 4: Double strain through a fine mesh strainer into a rocks glass filled with a large clear ice cube.
- Step 5: Express an orange twist over the surface, rim the glass with the peel, and drop it in.
- Step 6: Garnish with a fresh basil sprig placed upright beside the orange twist for a fragrant finish.









