27 Easy Whiskey Cocktails for Every Season

I say, live life to the fullest and give in to temptation with one of these tantalizing whiskey cocktails!

After all, there are so many different types of whiskey – so you’re bound to find one you love!

From tried-and-true classics like the Manhattan to modern mixes like The Godfather, these drinks are stunning.

You’ll find after-dinner sippers, options for cocktail hours, and even a few holiday libations.

Plus, you’ll find a recipe for a dreamy whiskey sour at the bottom of the post.

So like I said, you’re bound to find one (or more) drink to love. So check out these whiskey cocktails tonight!

Whiskey Cocktails & Drink Recipes

1. Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour

While food is a must-have at parties, this whiskey cocktail recipe will transform any special occasion.

It’s a complex mix of sweet, sour, and spice that tastes like fall and winter combined. 

The recipe features a harmonious blend of maple syrup and cinnamon with quality bourbon and a touch of lemon juice. 

This recipe uses Bulleit, which is my ultimate spirit. I think the regular or rye version both go well in this mix. 

Ingredients: bourbon or rye whiskey, lemon, maple syrup, cinnamon

2. Passion Fruit Bourbon Sour

The sweet nectar of passion fruit is a complementary mixer for this bourbon sour. 

The intense tropical fruit melds flawlessly with the velvety creamy body that’s crafted from egg white.

You’ll need both passionfruit syrup and pulp to get the fruity flavors just right. 

Also, Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon is the liquor of choice for this concoction.

This spirit has some floral and vanilla notes that are remarkable in this drink. 

Ingredients: bourbon or rye whiskey, passion fruit syrup, lime juice, egg white, Angostura bitters

3. Bourbon Old-Fashioned

Old-fashioned cocktails always remind me of a dimly lit steakhouse sort of drink.

It’s fancy enough to pair with steak and stiff enough for sipping after dinner. 

To make this classic whiskey drink, you’ll want to use high-quality bourbon whiskey, Angostura bitters, orange bitters, and some simple syrup to sweeten it. 

You’ll also need an orange peel and maraschino cherry for the finishing touch. 

Ingredients: bourbon, Angostura bitters, orange bitters, simple syrup, orange peel, cocktail cherry

4. Spiced Bourbon Hot Toddy

Feeling a sore throat coming on? Try curing it the old-school way with a tantalizing hot cocktail recipe. 

This rendition uses maple syrup as a natural sweetener and some chili pepper to give it a fiery kick. 

Sore throat or not, the Hot Toddy is the perfect way to warm up on a cold day. 

Ingredients: bourbon or rye whiskey, lemon, maple simple syrup, hot water

5. Fireball Whiskey Eggnog

Need a spirited beverage to pair with the holidays? You simply can’t go wrong with whiskey eggnog. 

Especially cinnamon whiskey eggnog!

This recipe keeps it simple with Fireball, though I bet you could use your favorite whiskey and simply add cinnamon to the mix.

Ingredients: eggnog, Fireball whiskey, vanilla vodka, cinnamon sugar (for garnish)

6. Manhattan

Manhattans are a Christmas staple in my family. This classic is very warming and cheery, making it a sprightful pairing for the holidays.

But by no means is this a weak drink. It’s strong and structured with just four ingredients. 

Bourbon makes it very smooth and stiff, while vermouth adds in some fragrant aromatics. Add a dash of bitters to keep it all well-balanced.

While some may debate, a cocktail cherry for garnish is a must in my household. 

Ingredients: rye whiskey or bourbon, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters, cocktail cherry, ice

7. Jack and Coke

Of all the whiskey cocktail recipes out there, I think the Jack and Coke is the most beloved. At least, it is for me.

It’s fizzy and refreshing without being too strong. Of course, you can make yours as stiff as you like.

This recipe calls for just a couple of ounces of Jack and topping it off with Coke. If you prefer diet soda, use that instead. 

Ingredients: Jack Daniels, Coke

8. Mint Julep

This timeless classic gets a modern twist with mint-infused simple syrup. No doubt, this enhances the mint intensity packing a punch of freshness. 

This is delightful on a warm day when you need a thirst-quenching drink. It’s also great in the afternoon when you need a boozy pick-me-up.

Fun trivia: while the Mint Julep has long been associated with the Kentucky Derby, it’s actually a traditional New Orleans drink!

Ingredients: bourbon or rye whiskey, mint simple syrup, lemon, mint, ice

9. Whiskey Lemonade

When it comes to whiskey cocktails for the summer, you really can’t beat a whiskey lemonade. 

It’s zesty, slightly sour, and perfectly boozy. And that sprig of rosemary gives it such a nice layer of herbal yumminess.

Play Alchemist if you like, and experiment with different dried herbs to see which ones you like the most.

Ingredients: rye whiskey or Scotch whisky, lemonade, mint, ice

10. Bourbon Sidecar

Another exceptional take on an old classic is this bourbon sidecar recipe.

It uses bourbon instead of brandy, which makes it slightly less sweet and fruity, but very smooth. 

It also calls for Cointreau, which is one of the best triple-sec brands around.

Add in a little bit of simple syrup or honey to sweeten it and some lemon juice to keep it bright.

Ingredients: bourbon or rye whiskey, Cointreau, lemon, simple syrup or honey

11. John Collins

A play on Tom Collins, John Collins uses whiskey instead of gin. However, like the original, you’ll want a tall glass for serving. 

This effervescent drink has plenty of citrus and is well-balanced on the liquor, making it a terrific refreshment for warm summer days. 

Ingredients: bourbon or Scotch whisky, lemon juice, superfine sugar, club soda, ice

12. Cherry Whiskey Sour

There are many ways to make a whiskey sour. When I’m in the mood for something fruity, I like making this cocktail. 

It still has a smooth, creamy body along with a pleasant bourbon kick. But the cherry juice gives it a dazzling fruity twist. 

Ingredients: bourbon or Scotch whisky, lemon juice, simple syrup, cherry juice, egg white

13. Lynchburg Lemonade

Named after Lynchburg, Tennessee, the Lynchburg lemonade is a Jack Daniel’s creation fitting for a porch session. 

This copycat recipe does it right with lemon juice, lemon soda, triple sec, and of course, Jack Daniel’s. 

You’ll want to make this a batch cocktail in a pitcher and invite the neighbors over for some good company. It’s just too refreshing not to share!

Ingredients: Jack Daniel’s, triple sec, lemon juice, lemon-lime soda, ice, lemon slices

14. Apple Cider Whiskey Cocktail

The best fall cocktails should capture the essence of fall with the right balance of booze. This one does that and more. 

It takes sparkling apple cider and mixes it with some coconut sugar and Jack Daniel’s Fire whiskey.

A cinnamon stick is the ultimate garnish for this autumn drink.  

Ingredients: Jack Daniel’s, lemon, coconut sugar, apple cider, cinnamon stick, ice

15. Kentucky Sunrise Cocktail

I’ve mentioned plenty of Jack Daniel’s and Bulleit drinks, but now it’s time for good old Jim Beam. 

This Kentucky bourbon cocktail is simple, sweet, and citrusy. Other than Jim Beam, all you’ll need is some orange juice and grenadine.

The fresh fruity taste and simplicity make this the epitome of summer whiskey cocktails.

Ingredients: Jim Beam, grenadine, orange juice, maraschino cherries, orange slice

16. Kentucky Mule

Of course, I can’t mention whiskey cocktails without talking about one of my favorite mules. 

The Kentucky Mule is a vibrant libation packed with fiery ginger beer and fresh lime.

I love how beads of condensation build-up on the copper mug that keeps this cocktail ice cold. 

Ingredients: bourbon or Scotch whisky, ginger beer, lime juice, mint, ice

17. Godfather

An award-winning classic film needs a stiff drink that can live up to its legendary reputation.

This cocktail recipe manages to do that with just two ingredients, bourbon, and amaretto. 

Amaretto is a sweet Italian liqueur that’s very fitting for this drink. 

Mix it with bourbon, and it adds some flavorful nuances to the spirit, making this surprisingly complex given the short ingredient list. 

Ingredients: bourbon or Scotch whisky, amaretto, cherries (for garnish)

18. Classic Whiskey Highball

If you’re searching for a cocktail recipe to showcase whiskey in all its glory, this is it. 

You’ll take a tall highball glass and pour in a shot of your favorite whiskey over ice. Then top that off with club soda and a lemon wedge. 

If you want a bit more flavor, you can add in some ginger beer.

It will taste phenomenal, but keep in mind it will mask some of the nuances of the spirit.

Ingredients: whiskey, soda water, lemon, ice

19. Blackberry Sunset Whiskey Sour

This cocktail is the stuff that dreams are made of! 

It has a touch of class and elegance, featuring eye-popping purplish hues. This is no doubt a ravishing drink and has the flavor to match. 

It mixes blackberry juice and blackberry liqueur, so it’s heavy on the fruit.

The addition of black walnut bitters adds a complementary nutty twist that balances out the sweetness.

All of which is captured in a silky smooth body thanks to the egg white. 

Ingredients: bourbon or Scotch whiskey, blackberry liqueur, lemon juice, blackberry simple syrup, egg white, black walnut bitters

20. Bourbon Sweet Tea Cocktail

Nothing reminds me more of the South than the combination of whiskey and sweet tea. 

This recipe is a down-to-earth concoction of bourbon, tea, and simple syrup. 

It specifically calls for Owl’s Brew Pink & Black, which is a type of Darjeeling tea with notes of hibiscus and strawberry. 

If you can’t get this tea, any medium-bodied black tea will do. 

Ingredients: bourbon or Scotch whiskey, honey simple syrup, citrus bitters, Arnold Palmer tea, lemon wedges, ice

21. Bourbon Lemon Drop Martini

If you want to impress your cocktail guests, whip up these electrifying martinis. 

They’ll have a bright and bold lemon kick thanks to the homemade sour mix and limoncello. 

They’re a little bit cheek-puckering, but all the best lemon drops are. 

Ingredients: bourbon or Scotch whisky, mint, sour mix, Limoncello, lemon slices

22. Whiskey Margaritas

Whiskey and margarita may sound a little odd, but wait until you give this one a try!

This sprightly beverage is fruity and refreshing. But instead of a tequila bite, you get sweet bourbon.

And while I love tequila cocktails, I have to admit that this one is delicious!

Ingredients: whisky or bourbon, Cointreau, lime juice, agave, salt

23. Irish Mimosa

Get ready for an exhilarating drink because this whiskey cocktail is a must-make.

This recipe calls for the standard mimosa ingredients, including Champagne and orange juice. But it adds an Irish twist with a shot of Jameson whiskey. 

To make it extra special, it has some grapefruit juice added to the mix. 

Ingredients: Irish whiskey, orange juice, grapefruit juice, Brut champagne

24. Peanut Butter Cup Whiskey Martini

I find the decadence of this drink to be particularly arresting. 

It has a silky smooth body and sensational flavor, which is compliments of the cocoa liquor, creme de cocoa, and heavy cream. 

That’s made even more indulgent with a peanut butter whiskey! This drink is perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, desserts, and more.

Ingredients: Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey, chocolate liqueur, creme de cocoa, heavy cream, chocolate syrup, ice

25. Whiskey Sour Party Punch

While party food is awesome, it’s this cocktail that’ll liven up the party. 

Starting with a large pitcher, you’ll pour in orange juice, lime, bourbon, and water.

Add a splash of simple syrup to make it a bit sweeter, then top it off with club soda. 

To prevent this from getting watery, you’ll freeze cubes of lemonade that add a zippy sour kick.

Ingredients: whiskey, lemonade, simple syrup or honey, orange juice, lime juice, club soda

26. Wine and Whiskey Cocktail

This wine and whisky cocktail is speaking to my soul. It’s bold and complex, with so many different notes from the whiskey and red wine. 

When finding the right whiskey and red wine, make sure you choose flavor profiles that will complement one another well.

Ingredients: whiskey, red wine, lemon juice, simple syrup or honey

27. Whiskey Orange Crush

Why not wet your whistle with a lush orange crush? 

As the name suggests, this boozy beverage is all about the orange.

It has fresh orange juice and a splash of triple sec with some lemon-lime soda for a little extra zip, all of which taste striking with a smooth quality whiskey. 

Ingredients: whiskey, triple sec, orange juice, lemon-lime soda, orange wheel & mint