Chai-Infused Whiskey Sour Cocktail
A bold twist on the classic sour, the Chai-Infused Whiskey Sour Cocktail blends bourbon, lemon, and chai spices into a smooth, frothy sip. Perfect for whiskey lovers looking for cozy flavor with a kick.
A cozy spin on a classic, the Chai-Infused Whiskey Sour Cocktail brings together bourbon, chai spices, and citrus for a drink that’s equal parts warming and refreshing. With its frothy texture and aromatic finish, this cocktail makes a perfect choice for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.
Background
The Whiskey Sour has been a staple since the 19th century, known for its balance of sweet, sour, and strong. By adding chai syrup, this version layers in comforting spice flavors that recall traditional masala chai, giving the timeless sour a seasonal, aromatic twist.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- Bourbon – the smooth, oaky backbone of the cocktail.
- Chai Tea Syrup – adds warm spice notes of cinnamon, cardamom, and clove.
- Lemon Juice – brings bright acidity to balance sweetness.
- Simple Syrup – fine-tunes the sweetness for balance.
- Egg White (optional) – creates the silky foam on top.
Equipment:
- Shaker
- Strainer
- Whiskey Sour glass
Spiced and Smooth
What sets this cocktail apart is its spice-forward character. The chai syrup enhances the bourbon’s vanilla and caramel tones, while the citrus keeps it lively. The egg white rounds it out with a velvety finish, making every sip both indulgent and balanced.
Substitutions & Variations
- No egg white? Use aquafaba (chickpea liquid) for a vegan-friendly foam.
- Different whiskey? Rye will bring extra spice, while blended whiskey gives a mellower sip.
- Chai alternatives? Spiced simple syrup or a strong steep of chai tea with honey works in a pinch.
Helpful Tips
- Garnish with a dusting of cinnamon or a star anise pod for visual appeal and aroma.
- Chill your glass beforehand for a smoother sip.
- Works well as a small-batch cocktail—just scale up the recipe and shake in portions.
Sip this cocktail when you want something familiar yet unexpected—a classic sour dressed up with warming spice.
Chai Whiskey Sour Recipe
Type of Glass
Whiskey Sour Glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz.
- 1 oz.
- 3/4 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 1
Directions
- Add bourbon, chai tea syrup, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using) to a shaker.
- Dry shake (no ice) for 10 seconds to emulsify.
- Add ice and shake again until well chilled.
- Strain into a Whiskey Sour glass.
- Garnish with a light dusting of ground cinnamon or a star anise pod.
A sip of this spiced sour is proof that comfort and complexity can live in the same glass.
