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Honey Deuce

A refreshing whiskey cocktail that balances smooth bourbon with the natural sweetness of honey and bright citrus notes. This sophisticated, easy-drinking cocktail requires just four ingredients and takes less than five minutes to prepare.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Beverage, Cocktail
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 ounces bourbon whiskey
  • 0.5 ounces fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 ounces honey syrup equal parts honey and hot water, mixed and cooled
  • Ice cubes for shaking and serving
  • 1 lemon wheel or twist for garnish

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker or mixing glass
  • Bar spoon
  • Jigger or measuring cup
  • Strainer
  • Cocktail glass or rocks glass
  • Citrus juicer or hand squeezer
  • Bar towel

Method
 

  1. Make honey syrup by mixing equal parts honey and hot water in a small jar, stirring until completely dissolved. Prepare ahead and refrigerate for up to two weeks.
  2. Pour 2 ounces of bourbon whiskey into your jigger and add it to the cocktail shaker.
  3. Measure 0.5 ounces of prepared honey syrup and add it to the shaker with the bourbon.
  4. Squeeze fresh lemon juice using a citrus juicer, aiming for 0.5 ounces. Strain through fine mesh to catch seeds or pulp.
  5. Pour 0.5 ounces of fresh lemon juice into the shaker with the bourbon and honey syrup.
  6. Fill the shaker with fresh ice cubes, about three-quarters of the way.
  7. Close the shaker and shake vigorously for 10 to 15 seconds until the outside feels frosty and cold.
  8. Place fresh ice cubes in your drinking glass and strain the cocktail over the ice using a cocktail strainer.
  9. Express a lemon twist over the cocktail by twisting it over the glass to release the oils, then drop it in as garnish. Serve immediately.

Notes

Always use fresh-squeezed lemon juice, never bottled. Chill your glass by filling it with ice a minute before pouring, then dump the ice and immediately strain the cocktail. Shake hard and confidently for best results. Serve immediately after making to preserve the carefully balanced flavors. Make honey syrup in advance for quick preparation.