A good Orange Sour is the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and smooth, with a bright citrusy kick and just the right amount of warmth from the bourbon. It’s one of those drinks that feels just as refreshing on a summer evening as it does cozy on a chilly night. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and it never fails to impress. Here’s everything you need to make a fantastic Orange Sour at home, plus a few tips to take it to the next level.
Orange Sour
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) bourbon
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 oz (30ml) sour mix (see notes below for a homemade version)
- 0.5 oz (15ml) triple sec
- Ice cubes (enough to shake and serve)
- Orange slice & maraschino cherry (for garnish)
A rocks glass works best for this cocktail, allowing the citrus aromas to shine. If you’re feeling fancy, you can serve it in a martini glass for a more elegant look.
How to Make an Orange Sour
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the bourbon, orange juice, sour mix, and triple sec.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds—you want everything well chilled and mixed.
- Strain into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.
Tip: Want a smoother, slightly creamy texture? Add an egg white before shaking. It gives the drink a velvety foam on top, just like in a classic whiskey sour.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- You can pre-mix the bourbon, orange juice, sour mix, and triple sec in a sealed jar and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just shake with ice before serving.
- If making for a party, batch it up and serve in a punch bowl—just leave out the ice until serving to prevent dilution.
Homemade Sour Mix
If you don’t have sour mix on hand, you can easily make your own:
- 1 cup (240ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup (200g) sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) water
Heat the sugar and water together until dissolved, then stir in the lemon juice. Store in the fridge for up to a week.
Flavor Variations
Once you’ve mastered the classic, try switching things up:
Spiced Orange Sour
- Add a cinnamon stick to the shaker before mixing for a warm, spiced note.
Herbal Orange Sour
- Muddle a sprig of thyme or rosemary in the shaker for a fresh, earthy twist.
Berry Orange Sour
- Add a handful of fresh raspberries or blackberries before shaking for a fruity burst.
Non-Alcoholic Version
- Replace bourbon with sparkling water or a splash of ginger ale for a refreshing mocktail.
Perfect Food Pairings
The citrusy sweetness of an Orange Sour pairs beautifully with:
- Spicy foods – The drink’s sweetness helps balance heat from dishes like spicy wings or tacos.
- Grilled chicken – The smoky, charred flavors complement the bright citrus notes.
- Chocolate desserts – The orange flavor plays beautifully with rich, dark chocolate.
Tips for the Best Orange Sour
- Use fresh orange juice. Bottled juice has preservatives that dull the flavor.
- Chill your glass. A cold glass keeps the drink crisp and refreshing.
- Shake well. This helps blend the flavors and chill everything evenly.
- Want more depth? Add a few dashes of orange or aromatic bitters for complexity.
Common Questions
Can I use store-bought orange juice?
Yes, but fresh-squeezed makes a huge difference in flavor. If using store-bought, go for 100% juice with no added sugar.
What’s the best bourbon to use?
A mid-range bourbon works best—something smooth but flavorful. Too cheap, and it’ll taste harsh; too expensive, and you’re covering up great bourbon with citrus.
Can I make it without sour mix?
Absolutely! Just use equal parts fresh lemon juice and simple syrup for a homemade alternative.
How do I make it look extra fancy?
Try a sugar rim on the glass or garnish with a flamed orange peel for a smoky aroma.
This Orange Sour is one of my favorite go-to cocktails—simple, refreshing, and easy to tweak to your taste. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or serving drinks at a party, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Cheers! 🍊
