The Sweet Tea Bourbon Smash is a refreshing Southern-inspired cocktail that blends the smooth warmth of bourbon with the bright, cooling flavors of iced tea, lemon, and mint. Originally popularized by a New York speakeasy, this drink combines classic “smash” cocktail technique, muddling fresh ingredients, with the familiar comfort of sweet tea. The result is a balanced, easy-drinking cocktail that’s perfect for hot afternoons, porch sitting, or casual gatherings. 

Ingredients

(Makes 1 cocktail)

  • 2 lemon wedges

  • 4 fresh mint leaves

  • 1–2 oz bourbon (adjust to taste)

  • 1 oz unsweetened iced tea

  • 1 teaspoon simple syrup or cane syrup

  • 1 teaspoon herbal liqueur (optional, such as Strega)

  • Ice

Optional garnish:

  • Mint sprig

  • Lemon wheel

Instructions

  1. Muddle the citrus and mint: In a cocktail shaker, add the lemon wedges and mint leaves. Gently muddle to release the lemon juice and mint oils without shredding the leaves.

  2. Add the liquids: Pour in the bourbon, iced tea, simple syrup, and herbal liqueur (if using).

  3. Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until chilled.

  4. Strain and serve: Strain into a rocks or Collins glass filled with fresh ice.

  5. Garnish: Top with a mint sprig or lemon wheel and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Sweet Tea Bourbon Smash

Don’t over-muddle the mint
Press gently—overworking mint can release bitterness instead of fresh flavor.

Use quality iced tea
Freshly brewed black tea (cooled) provides a cleaner, more authentic flavor than store-bought varieties.

Balance sweetness
Adjust the simple syrup depending on how sweet your tea is; this drink should be refreshing, not overly sugary.

Choose the right bourbon
A mid-range bourbon with vanilla and caramel notes pairs perfectly with tea and citrus.

Quick Variations

Classic Sweet Tea Style
Use sweetened iced tea and skip the simple syrup for a more traditional Southern flavor.

Peach Sweet Tea Smash
Add a few slices of fresh peach when muddling for a fruity twist.

Spiked Arnold Palmer Smash
Increase the lemon juice slightly and top with a splash of lemonade for a hybrid cocktail.

Mocktail Version
Omit the bourbon and herbal liqueur, and add extra iced tea plus a splash of sparkling water for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

A Southern Treat Shared With Friends

The Sweet Tea Bourbon Smash is a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, bringing together the bold character of bourbon with the easygoing charm of sweet tea. Whether you’re hosting friends or just unwinding after a long day, this cocktail delivers a crisp, cooling sip with just the right amount of Southern flair.

 

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