Bacon Bourbon Smash

If you’re a bourbon lover looking to elevate your cocktail game, the Bacon Bourbon Smash is the bold, flavorful experience your taste buds didn’t know they were missing. This savory twist on the classic bourbon smash introduces the irresistible depth of smoky bacon, the richness of real maple syrup, the refreshing kick of mint and lemon, and, of course, a smooth pour of bourbon to tie it all together. It’s a unique cocktail that plays with the boundaries of sweet and savory in the most delicious way possible—perfect for brunches, backyard gatherings, or sipping fireside with good company.

Why Is This Recipe So Popular?

The Bacon Bourbon Smash has gained traction among cocktail enthusiasts and foodies alike because it hits all the right notes: bold, unexpected, and indulgent. At its core, it fuses familiar comfort ingredients—bacon, maple syrup, mint, and bourbon—into a cocktail that feels luxurious without being pretentious. The smoky savoriness of bacon contrasts beautifully with the bright acidity of lemon and the aromatic freshness of mint, while the bourbon and maple tie everything together with rich, warming depth.

It’s also a product of the rising trend of culinary cocktails, where drinks borrow elements from the kitchen to elevate the glass. This cocktail isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience that stimulates multiple senses. From the aroma of bacon and mint to the sweet finish of maple and citrus, each element has purpose and presence. The drink’s novelty makes it a conversation piece, perfect for impressing guests or elevating a weekend brunch.

Plus, with the growing popularity of bacon as a gourmet ingredient—not just a breakfast staple—this cocktail satisfies the craving for something both familiar and adventurous. It’s no surprise that once someone tries a Bacon Bourbon Smash, they’re instantly hooked.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unforgettable Flavor Fusion: This cocktail delivers a dynamic balance of smoky, sweet, citrusy, and herbaceous notes in every sip. The boldness of bourbon harmonizes with the crisp freshness of mint and the brightness of lemon juice, while the bacon provides an umami punch that elevates the entire flavor profile beyond the ordinary.

Maple Magic: Instead of relying on standard simple syrup, this drink uses real maple syrup, which brings a rich, earthy sweetness that enhances the depth of the bourbon without making it overly sugary. It’s a subtle nod to comfort food flavors with a refined twist.

Next-Level Garnish: The crumbled bacon and sprig of mint aren’t just pretty—they’re purposeful. The bacon adds a savory crunch and smoky aroma with every sip, while the mint refreshes the senses and rounds out the drink’s complexity. It’s a garnish that actually elevates the experience, not just the presentation.

Satisfying for Bourbon Lovers: If you love the bold, caramel-forward flavors of bourbon, this cocktail offers an exciting new way to enjoy them. The added ingredients don’t mask the bourbon—they complement and highlight it, offering layers of complexity that keep each sip interesting.

Great for Entertaining: Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, weekend brunch, or just an evening with friends, this drink is a total showstopper. It’s unique, delicious, and just quirky enough to get people talking. Guests will be curious, impressed, and asking for seconds—and the recipe.

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Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 slice cooked bacon (crumbled)
• 1 oz maple syrup
• ½ oz fresh lemon juice
• 4–5 fresh mint leaves
• Ice
• Garnish: lemon twist and mint sprig

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Preparation – Step-by-Step

1. Muddle the Mint: In a shaker, gently muddle the fresh mint leaves with the maple syrup and lemon juice to release their oils and create a sweet, herbaceous base.
2. Add Bacon & Bourbon: Add the crumbled bacon and pour in the bourbon. Toss in a handful of ice.
3. Shake it Up: Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds to chill the mixture and infuse it with flavor.
4. Strain & Serve: Double strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice to catch bacon bits.
5. Garnish: Top with a lemon twist, mint sprig, and a few bacon crumbles for garnish.
6. Optional Touch: Rim the glass with maple syrup and bacon salt for an added flavor punch.

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Why Is This Recipe So Popular?

The Bacon Bourbon Smash is riding the wave of culinary cocktails that blur the line between food and drink. What makes it so popular is the unexpected harmony of ingredients—savory bacon and sweet maple aren’t just breakfast staples anymore. This cocktail transforms them into a rich, satisfying drink with plenty of wow factor. It’s especially beloved by bourbon fans who want something outside the ordinary, and by hosts who want to surprise their guests with a cocktail that’s equal parts innovative and indulgent.

The aroma of mint and bacon is immediately inviting, and the taste delivers layers of flavor that develop with every sip. From the herbal brightness of mint to the smokiness of bacon and the smooth vanilla notes of bourbon, this cocktail truly has it all.

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Variation

• Candied Bacon Garnish: Replace regular bacon with oven-caramelized candied bacon for a sweet crunch.
• Smoky Maple Syrup: Use smoked maple syrup to double down on the savory flavor.
• Infused Bourbon: Infuse your bourbon with bacon for an even richer profile.
• Add Bitters: A few dashes of Angostura or orange bitters can deepen the complexity.

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Cocktail Note

When using bacon in cocktails, always cook it thoroughly and allow it to cool before crumbling. Opt for thick-cut, high-quality bacon for the best flavor and texture. And while this drink is indulgent, it’s all about balance—don’t let the bacon overpower the mint and citrus!

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve it with brunch classics like chicken and waffles, or savory pancakes.
• Pair it with smoky barbecue or grilled meats for a harmonious dinner cocktail.
• It’s an excellent “welcome drink” for backyard parties or bourbon-themed tastings.

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Tips

• Double strain to avoid bacon bits in the glass.
• Use fresh lemon juice, not bottled, for a bright citrus kick.
• Slap the mint before garnishing to release its oils and enhance the aroma.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the full flavor balance before the ice dilutes it.

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Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Yield: 1 cocktail

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Nutritional Information (Estimated)

• Calories: ~210
• Protein: ~1g
• Sodium: ~80mg

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FAQs

Q: Can I make this cocktail without bacon?
A: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of bacon or catering to vegetarians, you can easily omit it. What you’ll have is a refreshing Maple Bourbon Smash that still packs plenty of flavor thanks to the mint, maple syrup, and citrusy lemon juice. It’s still bold, bright, and delicious—just minus the smoky crunch.

Q: What’s the best bourbon to use in this recipe?
A: Look for a mid-range bourbon that balances well with sweet and savory components. Brands like Bulleit, Maker’s Mark, Elijah Craig, or Woodford Reserve are excellent choices. Ideally, select a bourbon with caramel, vanilla, or light smoke notes to complement the maple and bacon without overpowering them.

Q: Can I substitute bacon-flavored vodka instead of using bourbon and bacon?
A: You can, especially if you’re looking for a shortcut or experimenting with something new. However, keep in mind that bacon-flavored vodka tends to be more artificial-tasting, and you’ll miss the rich, warm complexity that bourbon naturally brings. Bourbon’s character pairs far better with maple syrup and fresh mint, making it the superior choice for a well-rounded, elevated cocktail.

Q: Is this cocktail too savory to be served as a dessert drink?
A: Not at all! While it does feature bacon, the real maple syrup and fresh mint provide enough sweetness and freshness to make it a perfectly balanced dessert cocktail. It’s a great alternative to overly sugary drinks, offering richness and complexity with a hint of indulgence that’s great for ending a meal on a high note.

Q: Can I prepare it in advance for a party?
A: Yes, you can mix the bourbon, maple syrup, and lemon juice ahead of time and store it chilled. Just muddle fresh mint and add crumbled bacon right before serving for the best aroma and texture.

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Conclusion

The Bacon Bourbon Smash is not just a cocktail—it’s an experience. It’s smoky, sweet, citrusy, and herbaceous all at once, crafted to impress anyone who enjoys bold flavors and creative drinks. Whether you’re toasting to the weekend, experimenting in your home bar, or looking for a signature brunch beverage, this drink delivers unforgettable flavor in every single sip.

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