Sugar-free raspberry bourbon smash layers the warmth of bourbon over bright raspberry and cool fresh mint, with no sugar crash in sight. The trick is the split of sugar-free raspberry syrup — half muddled with the mint, half stirred in with the bourbon. Crushed ice brings it together in minutes.
Craving a cocktail that’s both refreshing and sophisticated, without the sugar crash? Meet your new favorite sipper: the Sugar-Free Raspberry Bourbon Smash. This vibrant drink perfectly balances the warmth of bourbon with the bright, fruity notes of raspberry and the cool aroma of fresh mint. It’s an effortlessly elegant cocktail that’s perfect for a sunny afternoon on the porch or a relaxing evening in. Simple to make, but complex in flavor, this is one recipe you’ll be shaking up all season long.
Ingredients
• 2 oz / 60 ml Bourbon
• 2 tbsp / 30 ml Sugar-free raspberry syrup, divided
• 8-10 Fresh mint leaves
• 1 ½ cups Crushed ice
• Optional Garnish: Fresh raspberries and a mint sprig
Instructions
1. In a sturdy rocks glass or julep cup, combine 1 tablespoon (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) of the sugar-free raspberry syrup and the fresh mint leaves. Gently muddle to release the mint’s fragrant oils without shredding the leaves.2. Add the bourbon and the remaining 1 tablespoon (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) of raspberry syrup to the glass.3. Fill the glass completely with crushed ice and stir with a bar spoon for about 20 seconds, or until the outside of the glass becomes frosty.4. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a few raspberries, if desired. Enjoy immediately!
Nutritional Information
• Estimated values per serving:
• Calories: 130 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
Pro Tips
• Clap the mint leaves between your palms before adding them to the glass to help awaken their aromatic oils.
• Use crushed or pebbled ice for the best texture and dilution, which is characteristic of a classic smash-style cocktail.
• A mid-range bourbon with notes of vanilla and caramel works beautifully, but feel free to experiment with rye for a spicier kick.
• For a lighter, taller drink, top with a splash of club soda or sparkling water after stirring.
FAQ
Q: What is the best bourbon for a Raspberry Smash
A: A mid-range bourbon with notes of vanilla and caramel is recommended as it complements the raspberry and mint flavors beautifully. However, you can also experiment with a spicier rye whiskey for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this cocktail with a different fruit
A: Yes, this smash recipe is very versatile. You can easily substitute the sugar-free raspberry syrup with other sugar-free berry syrups like blackberry, strawberry, or blueberry for a different twist.
Q: Do I have to use crushed ice for this cocktail
A: Crushed ice is highly recommended for a classic smash as it chills the drink quickly and provides the ideal texture and dilution. If you don’t have any, regular ice cubes will also work in a pinch.
Q: How can I make this drink less strong
A: For a lighter, less potent version, follow the recipe as instructed and then top the finished drink with a splash of club soda or sparkling water. This will add volume and effervescence without adding extra sugar.
Pro Tips
- Clap the mint leaves between your palms before they go in the glass — it awakens the aromatic oils before you muddle.
- Use crushed or pebbled ice rather than cubes; the fast chill and steady dilution are what make a smash taste like a smash. Regular cubes work in a pinch.
- A mid-range bourbon with vanilla and caramel notes complements the raspberry and mint; rye whiskey gives a spicier alternative.
- Divide the sugar-free raspberry syrup as written: 1 tablespoon muddled with the mint, the second tablespoon added with the bourbon, so the flavor stays layered.
- For a lighter, taller drink, top the finished smash with a splash of club soda or sparkling water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bourbon for a raspberry smash?
A mid-range bourbon with vanilla and caramel notes plays best against the raspberry and mint. Rye whiskey works if you prefer a spicier kick.
Can I make this cocktail with a different fruit?
Yes — swap the sugar-free raspberry syrup for other sugar-free berry syrups like blackberry, strawberry, or blueberry.
Do I have to use crushed ice for this cocktail?
It's strongly recommended for the classic texture and dilution, but regular ice cubes will do in a pinch.
How can I make this drink less strong?
Make it as written, then top the finished drink with a splash of club soda or sparkling water — more volume and fizz without extra sugar.
Recipe card below.
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Sugar-Free Raspberry Bourbon Smash
Ingredients
Method
- In a sturdy rocks glass or julep cup, combine 1 tablespoon (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) of the sugar-free raspberry syrup and the fresh mint leaves. Gently muddle to release the mint's fragrant oils without shredding the leaves. 2.
- Add the bourbon and the remaining 1 tablespoon (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) of raspberry syrup to the glass. 3. Fill the glass completely with crushed ice and stir with a bar spoon for about 20 seconds, or until the outside of the glass becomes frosty. 4.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a few raspberries, if desired.
- Enjoy immediately!
