The "Sting Like a Bee" Cocktail
- Prep Time
5 Minutes - Cook Time
None - Difficulty
Easy - Servings
1
For the Cocktail:
- 2 oz bourbon (or rye for more spice)
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz Mike’s Hot Honey (warmed or diluted 1:1 with hot water into a syrup)
- 1/2 oz fresh orange juice
- 1 egg white (or 1/2 oz aquafaba for a vegan option)
For the Garnish:
- Dehydrated lemon or orange wheel
Why This Cocktail Hits
It’s a bold balance of sweet heat, bright citrus, and smooth whiskey warmth. The orange adds depth and color, the lemon keeps it sharp, and the honey brings that signature kick. The foam on top? Pure texture and drama.
The Mike’s Hot Honey Move
Turning Mike’s Hot Honey into a quick syrup helps it blend seamlessly into the cocktail while keeping that sweet-heat backbone. It rounds out the citrus and amplifies the bourbon’s caramel notes.
Cocktail Game Plan
Step 1: Dry Shake First
Add bourbon, lemon juice, orange juice, Mike’s Hot Honey (or syrup), and egg white to a shaker without ice. Shake hard for 10-15 seconds to build foam.
Step 2: Shake With Ice
Add ice and shake again for another 10-15 seconds until well chilled.
Step 3: Strain & Serve
Double strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass (without ice) for a silky texture.
Step 4: Garnish
Top with a dehydrated citrus wheel. For extra flair, add a tiny drizzle of hot honey across the foam and drag a toothpick through for a design.
Level Up Your Sting
- Smoky Twist: Use a smoked bourbon.
- Spice Boost: Choose rye and add a pinch of cayenne.
- Bitters Edge: Add 1-2 dashes of orange bitters for extra depth.
