There’s something about spring that makes me want to clean my house, buy fresh flowers, and—of course—shake up some bourbon cocktails.
Easter weekend is the perfect excuse to get creative with your bar cart and whip up a few spring cocktail recipes that feel fresh, seasonal, and just a little bit fancy (without trying too hard).
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, stuffing Easter baskets for the grownups (hi, mini bourbon bottles), or just looking for a new way to enjoy your favorite whiskey, these Easter cocktail recipes are about to level up your spring sipping game.
The Spring Vibe: Seasonal Flavor Meets Southern Charm
Spring is all about new beginnings, and your drink menu should be no exception. I lean heavily into seasonal flavors like fresh strawberries, mint leaves, grapefruit juice, and a little citrus zing from lime or lemon juice.
Combine that with a quality bourbon—like Woodford Reserve or a nice single barrel Jack Daniel’s—and you’ve got yourself a mixed drink that’s both refreshing and rich.
This season, I’ve been experimenting with everything from lavender syrup to jalapeño slices to give my bourbon cocktails a unique edge without veering too far from the classics.
The Garden Nor’easter Cocktail
Inspired by colonial drinks and given a spring twist, this is one of my go-tos.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon (Woodford or a good single barrel works great)
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- ½ oz pure maple syrup
- Top with ginger beer
- Garnish with a lime wedge and mint sprig
Shake the bourbon, lime juice, and maple syrup in a cocktail shaker with fresh ice, then strain into a rocks glass and top with ginger beer. Garnish and enjoy!
Elderflower Bourbon Fizz
I call this my “gateway cocktail” for anyone who claims they don’t like bourbon. It’s floral, light, and dangerously drinkable.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz bourbon
- 1 oz elderflower liqueur
- ¾ oz lemon juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Club soda
- Garnish with an orange peel or mint leaves
This one works great in a small pitcher for batching—perfect for that Easter brunch spread.
Spicy Honey Whiskey Sour
This one is for the bold. It’s got heat, sweetness, and a silky texture thanks to (yes) a raw egg white.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- ¾ oz honey syrup (equal parts honey + water, heated on medium heat to dissolve)
- ¾ oz lemon juice
- 1 egg white
- Thin jalapeño slices
- Dash of bitters (optional)
Dry shake (no ice) to emulsify the egg, then shake again with ice. Strain into a rocks glass and float a jalapeño slice on top.
Strawberry Basil Smash
A sweet-tart crowd-pleaser and a great way to use those early spring fresh strawberries.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- ¾ oz simple syrup
- ¾ oz lemon juice
- 2 strawberries, hulled
- 2-3 basil leaves
- Mint sprig and lime wheel for garnish
Muddle the strawberries and basil in a shaker, add the rest, shake with ice, and strain over ice. Garnish to your heart’s content.
Tips & Tricks for Easter Cocktails
- Batching? Use a punch bowl or small pitcher and multiply your ingredients. Don’t add sparkling elements (ginger beer, club soda) until just before serving.
- Always use fresh ice and fresh citrus juice—it makes a huge difference.
- If you’re making a creamy or egg-based drink, dry shake first to get that frothy texture.
- Keep a stash of mint sprigs, citrus wheels, and edible flowers to make any drink look photo-ready for social media.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cocktails without a cocktail shaker?
Yes! A mason jar with a tight lid works in a pinch. Just be sure to strain if you’re muddling fruit or herbs.
What’s the best bourbon to use for Easter drinks?
Go for a quality bourbon like Woodford Reserve or Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel. You want something smooth with enough character to shine through seasonal mixers.
Can I turn any of these into mocktails?
Definitely. Replace bourbon with black tea, ginger ale, or even a splash of white wine sangria base (for flavor, not buzz).
How far in advance can I prep these Easter cocktails?
You can mix most of the ingredients—like the bourbon, citrus juices, and syrups—a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge in a small pitcher or sealed container. Just leave out anything fizzy (like ginger beer or club soda) until right before serving so your drink stays fresh and bubbly. Garnishes like mint sprigs, lime wedges, and orange peels can also be prepped ahead and stored in the fridge with a damp paper towel to keep them perky.
Easter doesn’t have to be all pastels and chocolate bunnies—why not add a little bourbon flair?
Whether you’re leaning into classic cocktails like the whiskey sour, riffing with a nor’easter cocktail, or trying a spring cocktail with floral or spicy notes, there’s something so satisfying about a handful of ingredients that come together into something worth toasting.
Cheers to the new season, new flavors, and some seriously good sips.