If you’re craving a cocktail that wraps you up in warmth with every sip, you absolutely have to try the Vanilla Cinnamon Maple. This drink puts a cozy, seasonal spin on the classic whiskey sour, blending bourbon’s comforting depth with velvety vanilla, fragrant cinnamon, and the uniquely rich sweetness of pure maple syrup. The result? A perfectly balanced, gently spiced cocktail that’s ideal for sweater weather or anytime you want a sip of autumn in a glass.

Vanilla Cinnamon Maple Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Vanilla Cinnamon Maple comes from a handful of everyday ingredients that truly shine together. Each element layers in flavor, with just the right notes of warmth, sweetness, and brightness to keep you coming back for another sip.

Bourbon: Choose a good-quality bourbon—its smoothness is what gives this cocktail its signature mellow base and subtle warmth.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Don’t skimp here—freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the cocktail and cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
Pure Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener doesn’t just add sugar; it brings deep, earthy caramel notes that make the Vanilla Cinnamon Maple so comforting.
Pure Vanilla Extract (or Vanilla Bean Paste): Just a dash weaves in that lush, creamy aroma—impossible to resist!
Ground Cinnamon (or Cinnamon Bitters): A classic fall spice, cinnamon infuses the cocktail with warmth and complexity; bitters will give a slightly smoother finish if preferred.
Ice Cubes: Essential for chilling and diluting your drink to perfection.
For Garnish – Cinnamon Stick, Lemon Wheel or Twist, Grated Nutmeg (optional): Your garnish not only looks beautiful but enhances every aromatic sip.

How to Make Vanilla Cinnamon Maple

Step 1: Prep Your Shaker

Start by loading your cocktail shaker with plenty of ice. This isn’t just about chilling your drink—it helps blend and slightly dilute the bourbon, making the Vanilla Cinnamon Maple extra smooth and sippable.

Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients

Pour in your measured bourbon, fresh lemon juice, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract or paste, and a dash of ground cinnamon (or a couple drops of cinnamon bitters if you want a silkier spice). Each ingredient builds on the next, creating that incredible harmony you’ll taste in every sip.

Step 3: Shake Vigorously

Seal up your cocktail shaker and get shaking hard for about 15–20 seconds. The goal here is to really chill the drink and meld all the flavors together until the shaker feels icy-cold in your hands.

Step 4: Strain and Serve

Settle a few fresh ice cubes into your favorite rocks glass. Strain your Vanilla Cinnamon Maple cocktail over the ice—watch that golden, warmly scented liquid cascade in. It’s as enticing to look at as it is to taste!

Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy

Complete the presentation with your choice of garnish: a cinnamon stick for an extra spicy aroma, a lemon wheel or twist for brightness, or even a light dusting of fresh grated nutmeg for a bonus cozy note. Sip and let the flavors unfold.

How to Serve Vanilla Cinnamon Maple

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish! A cinnamon stick adds a fragrant, spicy note right up to your nose as you sip, while a lemon wheel or twist gives every glass a pop of color and zesty scent. If you’re feeling extra festive, a dusting of grated nutmeg will accentuate the Vanilla Cinnamon Maple’s holiday spirit beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your Vanilla Cinnamon Maple with small, flavorful bites—the cocktail’s sweet-spiced profile is especially lovely alongside sharp cheeses, roasted nuts, or apple slices. For an extra special fall happy hour, serve it with pumpkin bread or cinnamon sugar doughnuts—you won’t regret it!

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, serve Vanilla Cinnamon Maple cocktails on a rustic wooden platter lined with cinnamon sticks and lemon twists for guests to choose their own garnishes. Or, go festive by rimming glasses with cinnamon sugar. You could even batch the cocktail for a crowd and garnish with maple-drizzled apple slices for a stunning, shareable presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve shaken up a few extra Vanilla Cinnamon Maple cocktails, just strain them into a mason jar and refrigerate. This blend will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 2 days—just shake or stir well before serving since the ingredients may separate over time.

Freezing

While it’s not typical to freeze cocktails, you can pour leftovers into an ice cube tray—then pop a Vanilla Cinnamon Maple cube into your next glass of bourbon, apple cider, or cold brew for a delicious seasonal twist. It’s a fun, no-waste way to keep the flavors alive!

Reheating

For a toasty winter treat, you can gently warm the Vanilla Cinnamon Maple on the stove over low heat (never boil it, or the alcohol will evaporate). Serve in a heatproof mug—this turns it into a comforting, boozy toddy that’s spectacular for chilly nights.

FAQs

Can I use a different whiskey besides bourbon?

Absolutely! While bourbon’s vanilla and caramel notes are perfect for the Vanilla Cinnamon Maple, you could swap in rye whiskey for a spicier edge, or even a blended Canadian or Irish whiskey for something lighter. Adjust the maple syrup if needed, as different whiskeys can have varying levels of sweetness.

What’s the best way to make this drink vegan?

Great news: Vanilla Cinnamon Maple is vegan as written! Just make sure the maple syrup you use is 100% pure and hasn’t been processed with animal-derived products. If you love a frothy cocktail, try shaking with aquafaba (chickpea liquid) instead of egg whites.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version?

Yes! For a zero-proof Vanilla Cinnamon Maple, try substituting the bourbon with brewed black tea (like Earl Grey or chai for extra spice) or a non-alcoholic spirit. The maple, vanilla, and lemon still create a magical drink.

Is it possible to batch this cocktail for a party?

Definitely. Just multiply all the ingredients by the number of guests and mix in a pitcher without ice. Chill it well in the fridge, then pour over ice to serve. Don’t forget the garnishes on the side for everyone to personalize their drinks!

I don’t have cinnamon bitters. Is ground cinnamon okay?

Yes! Ground cinnamon gives a slightly more robust spice, while bitters offer a smoother, more integrated flavor. Use whichever you have—or even combine them for maximum depth in your Vanilla Cinnamon Maple.

Final Thoughts

There’s genuinely nothing cozier than curling up with a Vanilla Cinnamon Maple after a long day. Whether you’re mixing one for yourself or sharing with friends, this cocktail is guaranteed to impress. So give it a try—you’re just a few simple steps away from your new favorite fall and winter sipper!