Absolutely! Creating a delicious mocktail version of the Salted Caramel Whiskey Sour is quite simple. Instead of whiskey, you can substitute it with a high-quality non-alcoholic whiskey alternative, which will mimic the spirit’s depth and warmth without the alcohol. Another excellent option for a non-alcoholic base is apple juice or cider, as their sweet and slightly tart notes complement the caramel and lemon beautifully. For an even more unique twist, a chilled or hot brewed tea can serve as a fantastic base, pairing wonderfully with the zesty lemon and sweet caramel flavors. Adjust the amount of simple syrup or caramel syrup to achieve your desired sweetness.

To keep the ingredient list minimal and maximize convenience, the ideal whiskey for a Salted Caramel Whiskey Sour is undoubtedly a pre-flavored salted caramel whiskey. Brands like Crown Royal, Bird Dog, and Ole Smoky all produce excellent varieties that streamline the recipe. These infused whiskeys provide a consistent and balanced caramel flavor with the perfect hint of salt. However, if you’re using plain whiskey and adding caramel syrup separately, then your choice of whiskey opens up. A smooth bourbon will lend a sweeter, vanilla-forward base, while a rye whiskey will offer a spicier, more robust foundation. Even a peated Scotch could add an intriguing smoky complexity, depending on your adventurous spirit. Choose a whiskey you already enjoy drinking neat or in other cocktails.

Certainly! While simple syrup is traditional, you can absolutely experiment with other sweeteners to achieve different flavor profiles and adjust to your preferences. Maple syrup offers a deep, earthy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with whiskey, especially in fall or winter. Honey can add a rich, floral complexity. Remember that these natural sweeteners have distinct flavors that will influence the overall taste of your cocktail. Additionally, for an intensified caramel flavor, you can incorporate an actual caramel syrup (sweetened) in place of some or all of the simple syrup. This is particularly effective if you’re using a plain whiskey and want to boost the caramel notes. Always taste as you go to ensure the balance is just right.

Achieving the perfect balance of sweetness and strength is all about personal preference and can be easily adjusted. To make the drink sweeter, gradually add a little more simple syrup or caramel syrup until it suits your taste. If you prefer a less sweet or more tart cocktail, increase the amount of lemon juice slightly. For a stronger drink, you can add an extra half-ounce of whiskey, while for a lighter version, reduce the whiskey or increase the other non-alcoholic components. The key is to taste-test throughout the process, adjusting quantities incrementally until you hit your ideal flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Garnishes not only add visual appeal but also enhance the aroma and overall enjoyment of your cocktail. Classic options include a vibrant slice of lemon on the rim or an elegantly coiled lemon peel twist dropped into the glass. A cheerful maraschino cherry adds a pop of color and a touch of extra sweetness. For a truly indulgent touch, consider a delicate drizzle of additional salted caramel sauce inside the glass or across the top of the drink. A fun and festive option is a sea salt rim or even a crushed caramel candy rim on your glass. For a warm, spiced aroma that perfectly complements the caramel, a cinnamon stick can be a wonderful addition, especially during colder months.

Salted caramel whiskey is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide array of mixers, making it a fantastic base for many creative cocktails. For a warm and comforting drink, try mixing it with coffee or hot chocolate. For a refreshing option, it goes exceptionally well with apple cider, Coke, or ginger ale. You can also create decadent dessert drinks by combining it with Irish cream, milkshakes, or liqueurs like hazelnut (Frangelico) or amaretto. As demonstrated in this recipe, it harmonizes perfectly with citrus notes like lemon and orange, offering a bright contrast to its sweetness. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your own favorite combinations!

• 2 Ounces salted caramel whiskey (such as Crown Royal)
• 2 Ounces fresh lemon juice (or quality sour mix)
• ½ Ounce simple syrup (or ½ tsp granulated sugar, dissolved)
• Ice cubes (for shaking and serving)

• Add all ingredients (except serving ice) to a cocktail shaker filled with fresh ice.
  2 Ounces salted caramel whiskey, 2 Ounces fresh lemon juice, ½ Ounce simple syrup, Ice cubes
• Shake vigorously for approximately 30 seconds until the mixture is well blended and thoroughly chilled. The outside of the shaker should feel very cold.
• Strain the chilled cocktail into a whiskey glass. If desired, add one large ice cube or sphere to the glass for a slower melt.
• Garnish with a twist of lemon, an orange slice, or a maraschino cherry for an extra touch of flair, then enjoy your perfectly crafted Salted Caramel Whiskey Sour!

Notes

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.