Applejack Sour

Pro tips

• Shake hard with plenty of ice to properly chill and dilute the spirit slightly, which softens the alcohol burn.
• Powdered sugar dissolves faster than granulated when shaken, but strain through a fine sieve if grittiness occurs.
• Grenadine sinks; stir gently before serving to distribute color and flavor evenly throughout the drink.

Substitutions

• Applejack → Calvados or brandy (lighter fruit character)
• Grenadine → Crème de cassis (deeper, less sweet flavor)
• Powdered sugar → Simple syrup, ½ tsp (easier to mix, slightly sweeter)

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger · bar spoon · strainer

What is applejack and can I substitute it?

Applejack is a brandy made from apples. Substitute with regular brandy, calvados, or bourbon for a different but comparable sour.

Do I need to shake or stir an Applejack Sour?

Shake vigorously with ice to properly chill and combine ingredients, then strain into a glass.

What glass should I use?

Serve in a coupe, sour, or rocks glass depending on preference and whether you add ice.

Can I make this ahead?

Mix and chill the applejack, grenadine, and powdered sugar separately, then shake with ice just before serving for best flavor.

Is this cocktail sweet or sour?

The powdered sugar provides sweetness while grenadine adds depth; the balance depends on exact proportions and any citrus juice added.