There’s something extra special about a Pear Whiskey Sour-it’s smooth, bright, and just the right amount of sweet and tangy. The mellow flavor of ripe pear blends beautifully with the warm kick of whiskey and a splash of lemon. It’s a cocktail that feels cozy in winter and refreshing in summer. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting the recipe: don’t skip the fresh lemon juice-it really lifts everything.
Pear Whiskey Sour
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Rocks glass (or a small tumbler)
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) whiskey (bourbon works great)
– 1 oz (30 ml) pear puree or pear juice (see tip below)
– 1 oz (30 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (or honey/agave for a natural option)
– Ice (for shaking and serving)
– Fresh pear slice, for garnish
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop your rocks glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you mix the drink.
- Make the pear puree (if using fresh pears). Peel and core one ripe pear. Blend until smooth. Strain if you want a silkier texture. You’ll get about 2-3 oz (60-90 ml) from one medium pear.
- Fill your shaker with ice. You want it about two-thirds full so there’s room to shake.
- Add the whiskey, pear puree or juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Use a jigger or measuring spoon to keep the balance just right.
- Shake it like you mean it. About 15-20 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels frosty. This chills the drink and helps everything blend smoothly.
- Dump the ice from your glass (if chilling with ice water), then strain the cocktail into the glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a thin pear slice. Float it on top or tuck it along the side of the glass. A lemon twist or sprig of mint also works nicely.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh ingredients. Fresh lemon juice and ripe pears make all the difference. Bottled juice just doesn’t hit the same.
– Don’t overdo the sweetener. Pears are naturally sweet, so taste as you go. You can always add more syrup, but you can’t take it out.
– Shake well. A good, firm shake helps blend the pear and whiskey and gives the drink a smooth finish.
– Try bourbon. It’s a type of whiskey that’s a bit sweeter and rounder-pairs beautifully with pear.
Make-Ahead Note
You can make a small batch of the pear puree and simple syrup ahead of time. Store both in the fridge in sealed jars for up to 3 days. Just give the puree a good stir before using, as it may settle.
Storage
The cocktail itself is best enjoyed fresh, but you can mix all the ingredients (except the ice) and store in the fridge for a few hours before serving. Shake with ice just before pouring.
Serving Suggestions
This drink’s sweet-tart balance makes it super food-friendly. Here are a few tasty pairings:
Cheese Plate
Soft cheeses like Brie or goat cheese go beautifully with the pear notes.
Grilled Chicken
The smoky char of grilled chicken plays off the fruitiness in the cocktail.
Bright Salads
Try a salad with arugula, citrus, and toasted nuts. It’s crisp and fresh, just like the drink.
Recipe Variations
Spiced Pear Whiskey Sour
– Swap plain pear puree for spiced pear puree (add cinnamon or nutmeg when blending).
– Great in colder months for a cozy twist.
Ginger Pear Whiskey Sour
– Replace simple syrup with ginger syrup.
– Adds a warm, peppery zing that wakes up the pear flavor.
Mint Pear Whiskey Sour
– Muddle a few fresh mint leaves in the shaker before adding other ingredients.
– Super refreshing, especially for warm days.
Non-Alcoholic Option
– Swap whiskey with extra pear juice.
– Skip the simple syrup or use just a touch. Still delicious and great for all ages.
Ingredient Swaps
– Whiskey: Use bourbon for a smoother, slightly sweeter flavor.
– Pear puree: Apple puree works in a pinch. It’s a bit tangier but still tasty.
– Simple syrup: Honey or agave are great natural sweeteners. Just stir well so they dissolve fully.
Common Questions
Can I use canned pear puree?
Yes, just check the label for added sugar. It’s best to use one with minimal ingredients.
Do I really need to shake the cocktail?
Yep! Shaking chills and blends everything quickly. Stirring won’t mix it as well, especially if using puree.
What kind of whiskey works best?
Bourbon is a great choice, but any smooth whiskey will do. Rye adds a bit of spice if you want a bolder flavor.
How do I know when it’s shaken enough?
The outside of your shaker should feel icy cold. That’s your cue.
What’s a good garnish besides pear?
Try a lemon wheel, a rosemary sprig, or a thin apple slice for a different look.
Final Thoughts
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s easy to make, easy to sip, and always gets compliments. Whether you’re mixing one for yourself or a batch for friends, the Pear Whiskey Sour is a drink that feels special without being fussy. Cheers!
