Sip Into Summer with a Hot Honey Strawberry Bourbon Smash 🍓🥃
Summer is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a refreshing, sweet-spicy cocktail that screams sunshine? Say hello to our Hot Honey Strawberry Bourbon Smash, a drink that’s been stealing the show at our recent gatherings. This cocktail is a perfect balance of fruity, herbaceous, and fiery flavors, with a bourbon kick that makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just unwinding on a warm evening, this drink will be your new go-to. Let’s dive into the recipe and why it’s the ultimate summer sipper!
Why You’ll Love This Cocktail
The Hot Honey Strawberry Bourbon Smash is the kind of drink that hits all the right notes. Fresh strawberries bring a burst of sweetness, while basil adds an earthy, aromatic twist. The hot honey gives it a subtle heat that lingers just enough to keep things interesting, and the bourbon—well, let’s just say Four Roses Bourbon adds a smooth, rich depth that ties it all together. Top it off with some bubbly club soda, and you’ve got a drink that’s as refreshing as it is bold.
This recipe is also super versatile. You can strain out the strawberry and basil for a cleaner look, or leave them in for a more rustic vibe. Either way, it’s a stunner in the glass!
The Recipe: Hot Honey Strawberry Bourbon Smash
Here’s our signature recipe, perfect for soaking up those summer vibes.
Ingredients
- 2–3 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1–2 fresh basil leaves
- 1/4–1/2 oz hot honey (adjust based on your spice preference)
- 1 1/2 oz bourbon (Four Roses Bourbon recommended)
- Club soda, to top
- Ice, for serving
- Optional: extra strawberry or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Muddle the Base: In a cocktail shaker or sturdy glass, add the strawberries and basil leaves. Muddle them together until the strawberries are broken down and juicy, releasing their flavors.
- Add the Heat and Booze: Pour in the hot honey and bourbon. Stir gently to combine. The hot honey will dissolve into the mixture, infusing it with a sweet-spicy kick.
- Shake It Up: Add a handful of ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds. This chills the drink and mixes all those delicious flavors together.
- Strain (or Don’t): If you prefer a smoother drink, strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice, leaving the strawberry and basil bits behind. If you like a chunkier, more rustic cocktail, pour it all in; your call!
- Top with Fizz: Fill the glass with club soda for a light, effervescent finish. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
- Garnish and Sip: Garnish with a strawberry slice or a small basil sprig for that Instagram-worthy look. Then, sit back, sip, and enjoy the taste of summer in every glass.
Pro Tip
If you don’t have hot honey on hand, you can make your own by gently heating regular honey with a pinch of red chili flakes or a few drops of hot sauce. Let it cool before using; it’s a game-changer!
Why Four Roses Bourbon?
We love using Four Roses Bourbon for this recipe. It has a smooth, slightly sweet profile with notes of caramel and fruit that complement the strawberries and honey perfectly. It’s not too overpowering, so the other flavors in the drink can shine. If you don’t have Four Roses, any good-quality bourbon will do—just aim for one that’s not too oaky or smoky, as it might clash with the lighter, fruitier elements of the cocktail.
Perfect Pairings
This cocktail is a summer star, so pair it with your favorite warm-weather bites. Think grilled peach and burrata salad, spicy shrimp skewers, or even a charcuterie board with some sharp cheddar and fresh fruit. The sweet-spicy combo in the drink makes it incredibly food-friendly, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
Final Thoughts
The Hot Honey Strawberry Bourbon Smash is more than just a cocktail—it’s a vibe. It’s the kind of drink that makes you want to kick back on a porch swing, soak in the sunset, and savor every sip. With its gorgeous ruby hue and refreshing fizz, it’s also a total showstopper for any summer gathering. We’ve already made it a staple at our get-togethers, and we have a feeling it’ll be a hit at yours too.
Have you tried this cocktail yet? Or do you have your own twist on a bourbon smash? Drop a comment below, we’d love to hear your thoughts! And if you make this recipe, be sure to tag us on social media so we can see your creations. Cheers to summer sipping!
