23 Decadent Bourbon Dessert Cocktails for a Sweet End to Your Night Out

Carmen Eldridge

October 2, 2025

Taking center stage is the rich and complex spirit of bourbon, a whiskey that has been delighting palates for centuries with its distinct flavor profile. Made from a mash of at least 51% corn and aged in charred oak barrels, bourbon develops its signature depth and character over time. Beyond its classic uses as a standalone sipper or mixed into a variety of cocktails, bourbon also lends itself perfectly to the realm of dessert cocktails.

This is where the magic happens, and for those who haven’t explored this pairing before, it’s an experience waiting to unfold. One of the key reasons bourbon shines in desserts is its ability to balance out sweetness with smoky, oaky undertones. This harmonious union creates a match made in heaven that elevates both the bourbon and the dessert to new heights.

The possibilities for bourbon dessert cocktails are endless, encompassing an array of flavors from rich chocolatey concoctions to luscious fruity blends. These creations are ideal for savoring after dinner or enjoying on a leisurely afternoon as the perfect accompaniment to relaxation. If you’re a fan of both bourbon and desserts, then buckle up for a treat, because in this blog post, we’ll delve into some of the most mouth-watering bourbon dessert cocktail recipes out there.

From timeless classics to innovative creations, every taste bud is sure to find its match.

Black and White Bourbon Milkshake With Bacon

Black and White Bourbon Milkshake With Bacon

Elevate your dessert game with the unique and mouth-watering Black and White Bourbon Milkshake with Bacon, a sweet and milky treat that cleverly balances the rich, smooth texture with the savory, salty flavor of crispy bacon. This decadent drink is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or special occasion, perfect for those who enjoy a little bit of boozy fun and adventure in their lives.

Bourbon and Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail

Bourbon and Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail

Gathering inspiration from the winter season, the Bourbon and Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail is a delightful concoction that embodies the essence of holiday cheer. Combining the rich flavors of bourbon with the luscious sweetness of cherry jam, lime juice, and honey creates a harmonious balance of tastes that will leave you craving more. The vibrant color of this cocktail is further accentuated by the garnish of maraschino cherries, adding a pop of color to any gathering.

Whether served before dinner or during a spirited football game, this bourbon-forward cocktail is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. By using larger ice cubes, the drink’s potency remains intact, preventing it from becoming diluted too quickly. Ultimately, the Bourbon and Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail is an absolute must-try for anyone who appreciates the smooth nuances of bourbon and seeks to add a festive touch to their cocktail repertoire.

Bourbon Black Forest Cocktail

Bourbon Black Forest Cocktail

Often associated with the flavors of winter, the Bourbon Black Forest Cocktail is a sophisticated concoction that combines rich chocolate and cherry notes in perfect harmony. Made with bourbon as its base, this cocktail is elevated by the addition of cherry brandy and chocolate liqueur, resulting in a drink that is both deeply warming and delightfully sweet.

Its elegant presentation, featuring a delicate float of cream and grated chocolate on top, makes it an ideal choice for those looking to add a touch of luxury to their holiday gatherings or special occasions.

S’mores Old Fashioned

S

Undoubtedly, one of the most creative takes on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail is the S’mores Old Fashioned, a sweet and savory twist that’s perfect for chilly fall evenings spent cozied up by the fire pit. The use of marshmallow syrup instead of traditional vodka gives this dessert-inspired cocktail a depth of flavor that sets it apart from other s’mores-based drinks.

This unique combination of flavors, with its smoky and toasted marshmallow notes, is expertly balanced by the addition of crème de cacao, which enhances the chocolate undertones, while Bittermen’s Xocolotl Mole bitters add a rich, complex layer to the drink.

Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado or simply looking for a sweet treat, this S’mores Old Fashioned is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more of its smoky, chocolatey goodness, especially when paired with a peaty scotch or mezcal that ties all the flavors together.

Boozy Bourbon Chocolate Milkshake

Boozy Bourbon Chocolate Milkshake

Velvety smooth and rich in flavor, The Boozy Bourbon Chocolate Milkshake is a decadent dessert cocktail that pairs the deep richness of chocolate with the creamy texture of vanilla ice cream and the warm, oaky notes of bourbon. This indulgent recipe is an adaptation of two recipes from the Rodelle website, incorporating both high-quality vanilla beans and premium baking cocoa to create a deliciously creamy shake that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

The addition of bourbon adds a delightful kick to the cocktail, making it perfect for those who love their drinks with a bit of a bite or a grown-up twist on a classic milkshake.

Bourbon Milk Punch

Bourbon Milk Punch

Very few desserts can compare to the richness of a well-made bourbon milk punch. This indulgent cocktail is a perfect blend of creamy textures and deep flavors, making it an ideal choice for special occasions like holidays. The combination of bourbon, milk or cream, and simple syrup creates a smooth and velvety texture that coats the palate. Vanilla and nutmeg add a warm and aromatic depth to the drink, balancing out the boldness of the bourbon.

It’s no wonder this classic cocktail has remained a staple for holiday gatherings for so long – it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert cocktail that’s sure to delight your guests, look no further than the Bourbon Milk Punch.

Valentino Delight Cocktail

Valentino Delight Cocktail

Giving new meaning to the term ‘sweet treat’, Valentino Delight Cocktail is an irresistible dessert drink that’s perfect for making any occasion feel like a special celebration. This unique cocktail combines Bourbon, Kahlua, Port wine, and heavy cream in a way that creates a complex flavor profile with a subtle spicy kick from the rum.

The delicate pinkish hue and sweetness of the port wine and Kahlua are beautifully balanced by the rich texture of the heavy cream, making it an ideal dessert cocktail for those who crave something truly decadent.

Delicious Chocolate Old Fashioned

Delicious Chocolate Old Fashioned

Zest up your taste buds with this decadent dessert cocktail, which flawlessly fuses the rich flavors of bourbon and dark chocolate. The Ballotin Whiskey Original Chocolate takes center stage, its velvety blend of whiskey and dark chocolate notes elevating the classic old fashioned to new heights. A splash of orange bitters injects a vibrant citrus note into the mix, while the rim of melted chocolate and garnish of orange peel add an indulgent touch.

This cocktail is a game-changer for those who adore the sweet and boozy combination, making it a must-try on National Chocolate Day or any day you want to treat yourself to something special.

Cherry Bourbon Milkshake With Espresso

Cherry Bourbon Milkshake With Espresso

Crafted with creamy vanilla ice cream, bold espresso, and rich bourbon, the Cherry Bourbon Milkshake with Espresso is an indulgent treat that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. This decadent dessert cocktail gets its unique flavor profile from the addition of Royal Harvest Bordeaux Maraschino Cherries, which add a fruity twist to the mix. A drizzle of chocolate syrup not only adds a touch of sweetness but also provides a decorative flair to the drink.

Perfect for any time of year, this cocktail is an ideal choice for coffee and bourbon enthusiasts who are looking to satisfy their sweet tooth.

Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail

Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail

Often considered a classic combination, bourbon and pecan pie flavors are about to get a whole new twist with the introduction of the Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail. This innovative concoction perfectly balances the richness of sweet and strong ingredients, expertly blending the bold flavors of bourbon and vodka to cut through the decadent sweetness of the pecan pie-inspired mixers.

Whether you prefer it served chilled over ice or shaken to perfection as a sophisticated martini, this cocktail is sure to leave a lasting impression. And if you’re in the mood for more seasonal dessert-inspired drinks, be sure to explore the other recipes featured in this article. But trust us, the Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail is an absolute must-try that you won’t want to miss out on.

Bananas Foster Manhattan

Bananas Foster Manhattan

Sophisticated and indulgent, the Bananas Foster Manhattan is a show-stopping dessert cocktail that elevates the classic flavors of bourbon, salted caramel syrup, and Giffards Banane du Bresil liqueur to new heights. This rich and decadent concoction perfectly captures the essence of caramelized bananas, making it an ideal choice for those who crave a sophisticated after-dinner drink or want to impress friends with a unique cocktail experience.

The addition of bruleed banana slices and charred cinnamon stick garnish adds a touch of luxury and whimsy, transforming the Bananas Foster Manhattan into a visually stunning centerpiece that’s sure to impress at any special occasion or evening gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned mixology enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, this dessert cocktail is definitely worth experimenting with.

Cherry Lover’s Manhattan Cocktail

Cherry Lover

Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of the Cherry Lover’s Manhattan Cocktail, a delectable twist on the classic Manhattan recipe. This delightful concoction is specifically designed for those who adore the taste of maraschino cherries and are looking to indulge in a sweeter take on the traditional cocktail.

By incorporating Luxardo maraschino liqueur and cherry juice, the drink achieves a perfect balance between rich sweetness and subtle booziness, making it an ideal choice for those who shy away from strong, overpowering cocktails. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner with a classic steak or simply want to unwind on a chilly evening, this cocktail is sure to impress even the most discerning palate, particularly if you’re a cherry aficionado.

Manhattan Cocktail

Manhattan Cocktail

Elevating your mixology skills to new heights requires a mastery of timeless classics like the Manhattan Cocktail, which has been delighting drinkers since its inception in the late 1800s. This iconic drink’s simplicity and sophistication come from its expert blend of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, yielding a smooth and aromatic flavor profile that is elevated by a subtle touch of sweetness.

While traditionalists swear by the use of rye whiskey for its bold flavor, bourbon can be used as a suitable substitute to create a milder and sweeter taste experience. The art of crafting a perfect Manhattan lies in its preparation method – it’s essential to stir rather than shake the cocktail to prevent excessive dilution. Moreover, using high-quality ingredients is crucial to bringing out the full depth of flavors in this refined drink.

Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated cocktail to serve at a dinner party or a refreshing drink to enjoy on a warm evening, the Manhattan is an excellent choice. With its complex yet balanced flavor profile and elegant presentation, it’s no wonder that this classic cocktail continues to captivate audiences today.

Banana Bread Flip

Banana Bread Flip

Elevating the world of cocktails with its creative twist on classic flavors, the Banana Bread Flip is an indulgent Bourbon Dessert Cocktail that will undoubtedly impress your guests. Embracing the concept of a traditional flip cocktail, this unique concoction incorporates fresh bananas and banana liqueur to deliver a distinct banana bread flavor profile.

The inclusion of a whole egg in the recipe enhances the richness and depth of the cocktail, while the subtle yet complex nuances provided by Amaro Montenegro add an extra layer of sophistication. Perfect for those who delight in sweet and indulgent drinks, the Banana Bread Flip is an ideal way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking to try something new or simply desire a dessert cocktail that’s both unique and delectable, the Banana Bread Flip is certainly worth exploring.

Cotton Candy Old Fashioned

Cotton Candy Old Fashioned

Zestful twists on classic cocktails are always a hit at parties, and the Cotton Candy Old Fashioned is no exception. This creative concoction takes the traditional old fashioned recipe and adds a whimsical touch with a fluffy cloud of orange cotton candy perched atop the drink. As you mix the cocktail, the cotton candy melts away, leaving behind a sweet and tangy flavor that’s sure to delight your guests.

The use of cotton candy not only adds a playful element but also elevates the sophistication of this classic drink. To make this show-stopping cocktail even easier to prepare, we recommend using a specific brand of cotton candy maker and orange floss sugar for added convenience. If you’re looking for a surefire way to impress your friends with a unique cocktail, the Cotton Candy Old Fashioned is definitely worth trying.

New York Sour

New York Sour

Crafted with a mix of whiskey and red wine, the New York Sour offers a unique take on the traditional cocktail. The addition of red wine not only creates a visually appealing layered effect but also enhances the overall flavor profile. When bourbon is used in place of the traditional whiskey, it contributes to a rich and smooth taste that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning whiskey enthusiasts.

Leave a Comment