The Vanilla Chai Whiskey Sour is a cozy sour with enough citrus to keep it from feeling heavy. Chai syrup brings cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and tea-like warmth, while vanilla smooths the edges and bourbon gives the drink its foundation. It is made for cool nights, dessert-adjacent sipping, and anyone who likes spice without sacrificing balance.
Vanilla Chai Whiskey Sour
A warming bourbon sour with vanilla, chai spice, lemon, and a smooth optional foam.
Glass
Rocks glass
Method
Shaken
Serves
1
Profile
Spiced, creamy, citrus-bright
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz vanilla chai syrup
- 1/4 oz simple syrup, optional
- 1 egg white or 1/2 oz aquafaba, optional
- Fresh grated nutmeg or cinnamon, for garnish
Suggested Brand
A suggested option for the bourbon base.
Method
- Add bourbon, lemon juice, vanilla chai syrup, optional simple syrup, and egg white or aquafaba to a shaker.
- Dry shake without ice for 10 seconds if using egg white or aquafaba.
- Add ice and shake until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice and garnish with nutmeg or cinnamon.
Bar Tools
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger
- Cocktail strainer
- Citrus press
Whiskey Scene Notes
The key is restraint with the chai syrup. Too much spice can flatten the bourbon, while a smaller measure lets the whiskey, lemon, vanilla, and tea notes move together.
Prefer a zero-proof pour? Visit our companion site, The Brixyard, for non-alcoholic cocktail inspiration.
