Smooth, golden, and effortlessly bold, the 3-Ingredient Honey-Bourbon Gold Rush is a modern classic that distills sophistication into simplicity. With the richness of bourbon, the mellow sweetness of honey syrup, and the sharp brightness of fresh lemon juice, this cocktail is a refined take on the whiskey sour. It’s ideal for evening sipping, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a well-balanced drink that’s both warming and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Only three ingredients—no fancy bar tools or rare mixers needed
Bold yet balanced flavor with sweet, tart, and smoky notes
Quick to prepare in just 5 minutes
Elegant and timeless, perfect for any occasion
Naturally sweetened with honey rather than sugar
A modern take on the whiskey sour
Easy to scale up for entertaining
Perfect introduction to bourbon cocktails
Smooth and versatile, enjoyed year-round
Visually stunning with a golden hue and citrus garnish

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

bourbon
fresh lemon juice
honey syrup (made from equal parts honey and hot water)
ice

For garnish:

lemon peel

Directions

Prepare the honey syrup: In a small bowl or measuring cup, stir together 1 tablespoon honey and 1 tablespoon hot water until completely dissolved. Let it cool.
Mix the cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz bourbon, 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice, and 3/4 oz honey syrup.
Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, until well chilled.
Strain and serve: Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
Garnish: Add a twist of lemon peel on top and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Calories: 180 kcal per serving

Variations

Add a dash of bitters: For a slightly more complex finish
Use maple syrup: Instead of honey for a deeper sweetness
Try different citrus: Swap lemon for orange juice for a softer citrus note
Make it smoky: Use a smoky bourbon or add a splash of mezcal
Serve hot: Skip the ice and heat the ingredients gently for a warm, soothing version
Add ginger: Muddle fresh ginger in the shaker for a spicy twist
Create a Gold Rush spritz: Top with sparkling water for a lighter version
Use wildflower honey: For a floral undertone
Turn it into a punch: Multiply the ingredients and serve in a pitcher over ice
Make it low-proof: Use less bourbon and more honey syrup for a gentler cocktail

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Honey syrup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week
No reheating needed: This cocktail is always served chilled
Make-ahead tip: Combine bourbon, lemon juice, and honey syrup in a sealed container and chill. Shake with ice just before serving
Serving note: Always shake with fresh ice for best flavor and presentation

FAQs

What is honey syrup?

Honey syrup is a simple mix of honey and hot water, typically in a 1:1 ratio, used to make honey easier to mix into cold drinks.

Can I use regular honey instead of syrup?

It’s best to dissolve the honey in hot water first—using it straight can result in uneven texture and flavor.

What’s the best bourbon for a Gold Rush?

Choose a smooth, mid-range bourbon with vanilla or caramel notes, such as Bulleit, Maker’s Mark, or Elijah Craig.

Can I make this cocktail in advance?

Yes, combine all ingredients (except ice) and refrigerate. Shake with ice before serving for the best texture.

Is this cocktail very sweet?

No, it’s balanced—honey adds sweetness, but the lemon keeps it bright and tart.

Can I serve it without a garnish?

Yes, but a lemon twist enhances both aroma and presentation.

What glass should I use?

A rocks glass with a large ice cube is traditional, but any short tumbler works.

How do I make a large batch for a party?

Multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher. Chill until ready to shake and serve over ice.

Can I make this alcohol-free?

Try a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative with the same proportions.

Is this drink seasonal?

While often served in cooler months due to its warmth and richness, it’s refreshing enough for summer too.

Conclusion

The 3-Ingredient Honey-Bourbon Gold Rush is proof that simplicity can be sophisticated. With its warm bourbon base, smooth honey sweetness, and refreshing lemon tang, it offers a refined and balanced cocktail experience that’s effortlessly enjoyable. Whether served at a quiet evening gathering or a festive celebration, this modern classic is sure to impress.

Honey-Bourbon Gold Rush

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Author: Mari
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 cocktail
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

The Honey-Bourbon Gold Rush is a smooth and simple 3-ingredient cocktail that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Combining rich bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup, it’s a modern twist on the whiskey sour—elegant, citrusy, and perfectly balanced for any occasion.

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
3/4 oz honey syrup (1:1 ratio of honey and hot water)
Ice

Lemon peel, for garnish

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Instructions

Make the honey syrup by mixing 1 tablespoon of honey with 1 tablespoon of hot water until dissolved. Let cool.
In a cocktail shaker, add bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup.
Fill with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.