Bourbon Slush Recipe: If you’ve never had a bourbon slush before, you’re in for a real treat. This icy, citrusy cocktail is one of the South’s most beloved summer drinks—cool, refreshing, and packed with a bold kick of bourbon. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just chilling on a porch swing, bourbon slush is always a good idea.
It’s one of those nostalgic drinks that feels both fancy and down-home at the same time. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make. You don’t need any fancy bar gear, and once it’s frozen, it’s ready whenever you are.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to whip up a batch of this boozy frozen goodness—from the ingredient list to serving tips, variations, and more.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the full breakdown of ingredients to make a classic bourbon slush that serves around 8-10 people. You can easily scale this recipe for larger parties.
Essential Ingredients:
- 2 cups strong brewed black tea (cooled)
- 2 cups bourbon (your favorite brand – doesn’t need to be top-shelf)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 can (12 oz) frozen orange juice concentrate (thawed)
- 1 can (12 oz) frozen lemonade concentrate (thawed)
- 6 cups water
Optional Flavor Add-Ins:
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish or muddled into the mix)
- 1/2 cup peach nectar (for a fruity Southern twist)
- Sliced fresh oranges or lemons (for serving)
- A dash of bitters (to add complexity)
You can play with the ingredients a bit depending on how strong or sweet you like it. Don’t be afraid to adjust!
Kitchen Tools Required
To pull off this recipe smoothly, make sure you have the following:
Must-Have Tools:
- Large mixing bowl or pitcher
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Freezer-safe container (large enough to hold the full mixture)
- Ice cream scoop or large spoon for serving the slush
Optional Tools:
- Citrus zester (if you’re adding fresh zest)
- Blender or immersion blender (to blend in fruit)
- Mason jars or cocktail glasses for that Instagram-worthy look
Preparation Time and Servings
Here’s a quick breakdown of the timing so you can plan ahead:
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
- Freeze Time: At least 8 hours or overnight
- Servings: 8-10 cups (depends on scoop size)
Pro tip: Make it the night before and let it freeze while you sleep.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bourbon Slush
Step 1: Brew the Tea
Start with about 2 cups of boiling water and steep 2-3 bags of black tea (like Lipton) for around 10 minutes. Let it cool completely before mixing. The tea gives your slush that slightly bitter backbone to balance the sweet citrus.
Step 2: Create the Citrus-Sugar Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 cup sugar
- 6 cups water
- 1 can thawed orange juice concentrate
- 1 can thawed lemonade concentrate
Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved. You want a smooth, consistent citrusy base here.
Step 3: Mix in the Bourbon
Add the cooled tea and 2 cups of bourbon to the citrus mix. Stir until fully combined. At this point, give it a quick taste test. Want it stronger? Add a splash more bourbon. Want it less sweet? Add a little extra tea.
Step 4: Freeze the Slush Mixture
Pour the mixture into a large freezer-safe container with a lid. Place in the freezer and let it chill for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight.
Note: Because of the alcohol, it won’t freeze solid. It should have a slushy, scoopable texture.
Step 5: Scrape and Serve
Once frozen, use an ice cream scoop or a large spoon to break up and scoop the slush into glasses. Garnish with mint, a lemon wedge, or even a splash of soda or ginger ale for a little fizz.
How to Serve Bourbon Slush
When it comes to serving bourbon slush, presentation and timing make all the difference. This icy delight is best enjoyed straight from the freezer—scooped into a chilled glass and allowed to slightly melt for that perfect, slurpable texture. You don’t want it too runny or too firm; it should feel like an adult snow cone with a punch.
Here are some quick serving tips to elevate your bourbon slush game:
Serving Tips:
- Chill your glasses beforehand. Stick your glasses in the freezer for 15–20 minutes before serving. This helps the slush stay colder longer.
- Garnish creatively. Add a sprig of fresh mint, a slice of lemon or orange, or even a cherry on top for color and aroma.
- Add a splash of soda. If you want to lighten the flavor a bit, top it off with club soda, Sprite, or ginger ale.
- Serve with a spoon and a straw. Let guests decide whether to sip or scoop.
Best Occasions for Bourbon Slush:
- Backyard BBQs
- Summer weddings
- Pool parties
- Brunches
- Tailgates and holiday gatherings
Whether it’s sunny out or you’re cozy indoors during the holidays, bourbon slush is always a hit when served right.
Flavor Variations to Try
One of the best things about bourbon slush? It’s super customizable. Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, try these tasty variations to shake things up.
Peach Bourbon Slush:
- Replace the orange juice with peach nectar
- Add sliced fresh peaches before freezing
- Garnish with a peach wedge
This version is sweet, fruity, and gives major Southern vibes.
Cherry Lime Bourbon Slush:
- Use limeade instead of lemonade
- Add 1 cup of cherry juice or cherry soda
- Top with maraschino cherries
A bold, tangy-sweet version that tastes like a grown-up cherry limeade.
Spiced Winter Bourbon Slush:
- Add a pinch of ground cinnamon and nutmeg
- Use apple cider in place of water
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and orange peel
Perfect for fall and winter get-togethers—cozy, spicy, and full of flavor.
These flavor twists are great for adapting your slush recipe to fit the season or the occasion.
Best Bourbon Brands for Slush
You don’t need a top-shelf bottle for a killer bourbon slush, but choosing the right bourbon will affect the taste.
Here’s a quick breakdown of popular bourbon types to consider:
Budget-Friendly Options (Great for Big Batches):
- Evan Williams
- Jim Beam
- Old Forester
These are solid choices that won’t break the bank, especially if you’re serving a crowd.
Mid-Range Picks (Smooth & Flavorful):
- Wild Turkey 101
- Maker’s Mark
- Bulleit Bourbon
These offer a bit more complexity—ideal for smaller batches or sipping while you scoop.
Top-Shelf Choices (If You’re Feeling Fancy):
- Woodford Reserve
- Knob Creek
- Blanton’s
Great for flavor-forward slush where bourbon is the star.
Pro Tip: Avoid heavily oaked or overly smoky bourbons for this recipe—they can overpower the citrus elements.
Tips for Hosting with Bourbon Slush
Planning to serve bourbon slush at your next party or BBQ? You’re already a legend. But here’s how to make it even easier:
Party Prep Tips:
- Make multiple batches. Double or triple the recipe and store in separate containers for easy access.
- Pre-scoop into cups. Just before guests arrive, scoop the slush into cups and store them in the freezer.
- Label your slush. If you make different flavors, add little signs or tags to let guests know what they’re sipping.
- Offer a non-alcoholic version (see below) for younger guests or non-drinkers.
Perfect Pairings:
- Pulled pork sliders
- BBQ ribs or wings
- Grilled veggies
- Mini mac & cheese cups
- Southern-style deviled eggs
Bourbon slush isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience. Pair it with Southern comfort food and good music, and you’ve got a party no one will forget.
Make It Non-Alcoholic
Want the fun without the buzz? You can absolutely make a non-alcoholic version of bourbon slush that still tastes amazing.
Here’s how:
Ingredients for the Mocktail Version:
- 2 cups strong black tea (cooled)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 can orange juice concentrate (thawed)
- 1 can lemonade concentrate (thawed)
- 6 cups water
- Optional: 1–2 tsp bourbon extract for that classic flavor
Mix it the same way as the original, freeze it, and scoop just like before. The result? A sweet, refreshing slush even kids can enjoy.
How to Store Leftover Slush
If you’ve got leftovers (which, let’s be real, doesn’t happen often), storing your bourbon slush is super easy and keeps the goodness going for days.
Storage Tips:
- Use an airtight container. A large freezer-safe plastic container with a tight-fitting lid works best. This prevents freezer burn and keeps the slush from picking up any funky freezer smells.
- Keep it in the coldest part of your freezer. Usually, that’s the back or bottom. This helps maintain its perfect slushy consistency.
- Label it. Especially if you’re making multiple flavors—write the flavor and date on the lid so you don’t forget what’s inside.
Shelf Life:
- Bourbon slush can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
- The alcohol keeps it from freezing solid, so you can scoop it whenever the craving hits.
How to Refresh It:
- If the slush hardens too much, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
- Stir with a fork to fluff it back up into that perfect, icy texture.
Want to get creative? Reuse leftovers in new cocktails! Blend a scoop with fresh fruit or pour a shot of soda over it for a slushy spritzer.
Health & Nutritional Facts
While bourbon slush isn’t exactly a health food, it’s totally okay to indulge now and then—especially when you know what you’re sipping.
Here’s a general idea of the nutrition info per 1-cup serving:
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180–220 kcal |
| Sugar | 20–30g |
| Alcohol | ~1.5 oz bourbon |
| Carbs | 25–35g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
Note: Nutritional values vary depending on your ingredients and portion sizes.
Tips to Make It Slightly Healthier:
- Reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup
- Use unsweetened tea
- Try natural juice concentrates with no added sugar
But hey, sometimes you just need to treat yourself. Enjoy it for what it is—a refreshing cocktail meant to be sipped slowly and savored.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making bourbon slush isn’t rocket science, but there are a few rookie mistakes that can mess with the final result. Here’s how to avoid them:
1. Using Boiling Tea in the Mix
Make sure your brewed tea is completely cooled before mixing it with the citrus and alcohol. Hot tea can melt the concentrates and affect the texture.
2. Not Freezing Long Enough
Patience is key. Bourbon slush needs a solid 8–12 hours in the freezer. Don’t try to rush it—you’ll end up with a watery mess.
3. Using Low-Quality Bourbon
Cheap doesn’t always mean bad, but avoid anything harsh or overly bitter. A smoother bourbon gives your slush a better flavor base.
4. Skipping the Stir Before Serving
When slush freezes, ingredients can separate a bit. Give it a good stir or scrape to bring it back to life before serving.
5. Making It Too Sweet
It’s easy to go overboard with sugar and juice. Taste as you mix and adjust if needed—especially if you’re using sweetened tea or fruit add-ins.
Seasonal Bourbon Slush Ideas
Want to enjoy bourbon slush year-round? Just tweak the flavors to match the season. Here are a few seasonal ideas you’ll love:
Summer BBQ Bourbon Slush:
- Add fresh mint and crushed berries
- Use lemonade and orange juice with a splash of ginger ale
- Serve in mason jars for that rustic summer vibe
Autumn Apple Bourbon Slush:
- Use apple cider instead of water
- Add cinnamon and nutmeg
- Garnish with apple slices and a cinnamon stick
Holiday Cranberry Bourbon Slush:
- Use cranberry juice concentrate in place of lemonade
- Add a splash of pomegranate juice
- Serve with sugared cranberries or rosemary sprigs for garnish
Spring Citrus Slush:
- Use pink lemonade concentrate and a splash of grapefruit juice
- Add fresh basil for a fun herbal twist
- Serve with a citrus peel twist
You can reinvent this classic drink any time of year with just a few ingredient swaps.
FAQs about Bourbon Slush Recipe
1. Can I make bourbon slush without tea?
Yes! You can skip the tea entirely, though it adds depth. Try using water or fruit juice instead.
2. How long does it take to freeze properly?
It needs at least 8 hours, but freezing overnight is ideal for the best slushy texture.
3. What’s the best fruit juice to use for flavor variations?
Peach nectar, cranberry juice, and cherry juice are all great for different twists.
4. Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Absolutely. You can cut it down to ¾ cup or even ½ cup if you’re using sweetened juices.
5. Is it okay to use other spirits instead of bourbon?
Totally! Try rum for a tropical feel or whiskey if you like a bolder kick.
Conclusion
There’s just something magical about bourbon slush. It’s bold, refreshing, and packed with Southern charm. Whether you’re hosting a big backyard bash or just want a personal frozen treat for a warm evening, this drink always delivers. With its customizable flavors, easy prep, and make-ahead convenience, it’s no wonder bourbon slush is a go-to for so many.
And the best part? You don’t need to be a bartender to make it. Just mix, freeze, scoop, and sip. Cheers to that!
