Clove-Infused Maple Sour

The Clove-Infused Maple Sour is a rich, sophisticated cocktail that blends the deep warmth of cloves with the smooth sweetness of maple syrup and the tart bite of fresh citrus. This drink takes the classic whiskey sour to a new level by incorporating an aromatic spiced syrup, giving it a seasonal twist perfect for autumn and winter. The balance of smoky, sweet, and sour flavors makes this cocktail a versatile choice, whether you’re enjoying a cozy evening by the fireplace, hosting a holiday gathering, or looking for a unique drink to impress guests. The infusion of whole cloves into the maple syrup adds depth and complexity, while freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the drink with a refreshing citrus note. This cocktail is easy to make yet incredibly refined, making it ideal for both casual and formal occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Clove-Infused Maple Sour is a must-try for whiskey lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. It offers a beautifully layered flavor profile, combining the boldness of whiskey with the sweet, caramelized depth of maple syrup and the warming spice of cloves. This drink is perfect for fall and winter, delivering a cozy and comforting sip with every taste. The natural sweetness of maple syrup makes this cocktail smooth and mellow, while the tartness of fresh lemon juice balances the drink and keeps it refreshing. Unlike traditional simple syrup, the clove-infused maple syrup adds complexity and warmth, making it ideal for cooler months. The frothy texture achieved with egg white (or aquafaba for a vegan version) adds a luxurious mouthfeel, making each sip velvety smooth. Best of all, it’s easy to customize—whether you prefer a smokier profile with a peated whiskey or a sweeter version with a touch of orange juice, this drink can be adjusted to your taste.

Ingredients

• 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon or rye whiskey
• 0.75 oz (22 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 0.5 oz (15 ml) clove-infused maple syrup (recipe below)
• 1 egg white (optional, for a frothy texture)
• Ice cubes
• Garnish: Whole cloves, lemon peel, or a cinnamon stick

For the Clove-Infused Maple Syrup:

• ½ cup pure maple syrup
• 6-8 whole cloves
• ¼ cup water

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the clove-infused maple syrup by combining maple syrup, water, and whole cloves in a small saucepan over low heat. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the cloves to release their oils and aroma into the syrup. Remove from heat and let it steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain out the cloves and allow the syrup to cool before using. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Step 2: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.

Step 3: Add bourbon or rye whiskey, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and clove-infused maple syrup to the shaker.

Step 4: If using egg white, first dry shake (shake without ice) vigorously for 15 seconds to create foam, then add ice and shake again for another 15 seconds. This method ensures a velvety, frothy texture on top of the drink.

Step 5: Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or rocks glass over fresh ice.

Step 6: Garnish with a few whole cloves, a twist of lemon peel, or a cinnamon stick for an extra aromatic touch.

Variation

• Smoky Maple Sour: Use smoked maple syrup or add a few drops of peated Scotch whiskey for a deeper, smoky flavor.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace the whiskey with a strong brewed black tea or a zero-proof whiskey alternative for a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol.
• Spicier Kick: Infuse the syrup with a pinch of black peppercorns or star anise along with the cloves to intensify the warm spice notes.
• Lighter Version: Use half the amount of maple syrup for a more tart-forward cocktail, letting the citrus shine.
• Extra Citrus Flavor: Add an orange zest twist or a splash of fresh orange juice for additional brightness.

Cooking Notes

The quality of maple syrup matters—use pure maple syrup for the best taste and avoid artificial pancake syrups, which contain corn syrup and lack the depth of real maple. Whole cloves provide a rich infusion without overpowering the cocktail; avoid using ground cloves, as they can be too intense and make the drink gritty. If you prefer a more mellow clove flavor, reduce the steeping time of the syrup or use fewer cloves. Shaking with egg white creates a smooth, velvety texture, but the drink is just as delicious without it if you prefer a clearer, non-frothy cocktail. For the best results, use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled varieties to maintain a bright and natural acidity.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cocktail at holiday gatherings alongside warm appetizers like spiced nuts, baked brie, or maple-glazed bacon. Pair it with rich desserts like pecan pie, gingerbread cookies, or dark chocolate truffles to enhance the warm and sweet elements of the drink. Enjoy it as a sophisticated nightcap on a crisp evening, sipping slowly to appreciate its layers of flavor. Serve in an elegant coupe glass with a cinnamon-sugar rim for extra flair. This drink also pairs well with smoked meats and cheeses, making it a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board.

Tips

Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter, more balanced flavor. Double strain the cocktail through a fine mesh sieve if you want a silky-smooth texture without pulp or ice shards. Chill your glass beforehand to keep the cocktail at the perfect temperature and ensure the flavors stay crisp. Experiment with different whiskeys—bourbon adds warmth and sweetness, while rye gives a spicier, drier profile. Store extra clove-infused maple syrup in the refrigerator for up to two weeks and use it in coffee, tea, or drizzled over pancakes for a seasonal touch. If you want to enhance the presentation, float a thin lemon slice or a star anise pod on top of the drink for added visual appeal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 180 per serving
• Protein: 0.5g
• Sodium: 5mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought maple syrup instead of making the clove infusion?
A: Yes, but infusing it with cloves adds a deeper, spiced flavor that enhances the cocktail’s complexity. If you’re short on time, you can add a small pinch of ground cloves directly to the shaker instead.

Q: What type of whiskey works best in this cocktail?
A: Bourbon provides a smooth, slightly sweet base, while rye whiskey adds a spicier, more robust character. Choose based on your preference for sweetness versus spice.

Q: Is there a vegan alternative to egg white for the frothy top?
A: Yes, you can use aquafaba (chickpea water) as a substitute—it creates a similar foam without altering the taste and keeps the cocktail vegan-friendly.

Q: Can I make this cocktail in advance?
A: You can prepare the clove-infused maple syrup ahead of time, but mix and shake the drink fresh for the best texture and flavor. If making for a party, you can pre-mix the whiskey, lemon juice, and syrup in a sealed container and shake with ice just before serving.

Q: What other cocktails pair well with this?
A: Other spiced whiskey cocktails like a Maple Old Fashioned, Hot Toddy, or Spiced Whiskey Sour complement this drink beautifully.

Conclusion

The Clove-Infused Maple Sour is a sophisticated yet approachable cocktail that beautifully blends tart citrus, rich maple, and warm spices. Perfect for cozy fall and winter evenings, this drink offers a delicious balance of bold flavors with a touch of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, enjoying a quiet night in, or looking for a unique whiskey cocktail to add to your repertoire, this drink is sure to impress. Try this warm, inviting twist on a classic sour and savor the perfect harmony of whiskey, cloves, and maple.