10-Minute Dark and Stormy Drink with Bourbon

Dark and stormy drink with bourbon is the smoky, spicy cocktail you didn’t know you needed—until now. Traditionally made with dark rum, this bourbon-based twist adds a rich, smooth depth that balances beautifully with the spicy bite of ginger beer and the tart sweetness of apple cider. Best of all, it comes together in under 10 minutes with just a handful of ingredients you likely already have at home. Whether you’re sipping it on a crisp fall evening or serving guests something unique, this cocktail is effortlessly impressive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

this recipe

• 🕐 Ready in under 10 minutes – Quick to mix, easy to enjoy
• 🥃 Bourbon-forward flavor – A smooth upgrade from traditional rum
• 🍏 Perfectly balanced – Sweet apple cider + zingy ginger beer
• 🍂 Fall-inspired – Great for cool-weather sipping
• 🍸 Elegant yet simple – Minimal ingredients, maximum impact

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (like Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace)
• 2 oz apple cider
• ½ oz fresh lemon juice
• 2 oz ginger beer (chilled)
• 1 cup ice
• Apple slice (garnish)
• Cinnamon stick (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Shake the Base
   Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
   Add bourbon, apple cider, and lemon juice.
   Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
2. Strain into Glass
   Fill a highball or rocks glass with fresh ice.
   Strain the cocktail mixture into the glass.
3. Top & Garnish
   Pour ginger beer gently over the top.
   Garnish with a fresh apple slice and cinnamon stick if desired.
   Stir gently and enjoy.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5–10 minutes
• Servings: 1 cocktail
• Difficulty: Easy

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 190
• Carbs: 17 g
• Sugar: 12 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Alcohol: ~14% ABV

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh lemon juice – Adds brightness and balances sweetness
• Chill your glass – Keeps the drink cold without watering it down
• Try different bourbons – Rye-forward bourbons add a spicy note
• Want a traditional version? – Swap bourbon for dark rum
• Make it sweeter – Add a splash of maple syrup for fall flair

FAQs

Can I batch this drink for a party?
Yes! Combine bourbon, apple cider, and lemon juice in a pitcher. Add ginger beer when serving.

What’s the best ginger beer to use?
Choose a bold one like Fever-Tree or Q Ginger Beer for the best spice.

Can I make it non-alcoholic?
Substitute bourbon with chilled black tea or apple cider vinegar for a mocktail version.

Dark and Stormy with Bourbon

This bourbon twist on the classic Dark and Stormy is cozy, bold, and ready in 10 minutes. Perfect for fall evenings or any time you want a quick, impressive cocktail.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 1

Course: Cocktails

Cuisine: American

Calories: 190

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• – 2 oz bourbon
• – 2 oz apple cider
• – ½ oz fresh lemon juice
• – 2 oz ginger beer chilled
• – 1 cup ice
• – Apple slice for garnish
• – Cinnamon stick optional

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• – Strainer
• – Highball or rocks glass

Method

 

1. Add bourbon, apple cider, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake well for 10–15 seconds.
3. Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
4. Top with ginger beer.
5. Garnish with apple slice and cinnamon stick.

Notes

– Use quality ginger beer for the best balance
– Batch the base ahead of time for easy entertaining
– Optional: Add maple syrup or spiced bitters for depth

Conclusion

A dark and stormy drink with bourbon is the perfect cocktail for anyone who loves warm, bold flavors in a simple format. It’s quick to mix, easy to adapt, and sure to impress. Whether you’re cozying up by the fire or entertaining guests, this smoky-sweet drink will become a go-to in your cocktail lineup.