Home
Recipes
Cocktails
Whiskey / Bourbon / Rye-Based Cocktails
Gold Rush Recipe

Gold Rush Recipe

Master this homemade Gold Rush cocktail recipe with the perfect balance of bourbon, honey syrup, and fresh lemon juice. This easy craft cocktail brings speakeasy-quality drinks to your home bar. The best bourbon cocktail when you want something refreshingly sweet yet complex - absolutely fool-proof for both beginners and mixology enthusiasts.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
A rocks glass filled with a brilliantly amber-hued cocktail, photographed in warm, honey-colored light that accentuates its golden tones. Large, crystal-clear ice cubes catch the light while casting dramatic shadows through the drink. A macro shot captures tiny beads of condensation forming on the glass's exterior, with a delicate lemon twist resting on the rim, its oils visibly released across the surface. The backdrop features subtle honeycomb textures and warm wood tones, complementing the bourbon's rich character and honey sweetness that define this Gold Rush cocktail.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml bourbon whiskey</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">22.5ml honey syrup (equal parts honey and hot water, cooled)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">22.5ml fresh lemon juice</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Lemon twist for garnish</li> </ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size:
🔥 Calories:
🥑 Fat:
🧈 Saturated Fat:
🍞 Carbohydrates:
🍭 Sugar:
🍗 Protein:
🫀 Cholesterol:
🧂 Sodium:

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Cocktail shaker</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Hawthorne strainer</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Jigger or measuring tool</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Rocks glass</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Ice mold for large cube (optional)</li> </ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Prepare your honey syrup by mixing equal parts honey and hot water (if not already made), stirring until completely dissolved. Allow to cool completely before using - this creates a mixable sweetener that incorporates smoothly into cold ingredients without clumping. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Fill your rocks glass with ice (preferably one large cube if available) to chill it while you prepare the cocktail. This pre-chilling ensures your drink stays colder longer and prevents excessive dilution. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Fill your cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add 60ml bourbon, 22.5ml honey syrup, and 22.5ml fresh lemon juice. Measure carefully - the perfect Gold Rush balances the bourbon's strength with the right amount of sweetness and acidity. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Seal the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds. You're not just mixing ingredients but also aerating the cocktail, which creates a silky mouthfeel while properly chilling and diluting the drink. The shaker should become frosty on the outside. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Discard the ice from your chilled rocks glass and replace with fresh ice - ideally one large cube which will melt more slowly, maintaining the cocktail's integrity. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Strain the cocktail from the shaker into your prepared glass. A proper strain ensures no ice chips or lemon pulp make it into the final presentation. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Cut a strip of lemon peel about 5cm long. Twist it over the drink to express the oils onto the surface - you'll see a fine mist land on the cocktail, adding aromatic complexity. Rub the peel around the rim of the glass before placing it as a garnish. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> Serve immediately while the cocktail is perfectly chilled. The Gold Rush should appear golden-amber with a subtle sheen from the honey and a refreshing aroma from the lemon oils. </li> </ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Gold Rush Recipe?

A Gold Rush requires bourbon whiskey, honey syrup (made from equal parts honey and hot water), and fresh lemon juice. It's garnished with a lemon twist. The ratio is typically 60ml bourbon to 22.5ml each of honey syrup and lemon juice.

How to make Gold Rush Recipe at home?

Learn how to make Gold Rush Recipe by combining bourbon, honey syrup and fresh lemon juice in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until properly chilled, then strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a lemon twist, expressing the oils over the surface for added aroma and complexity.

What's the best bourbon to use in a Gold Rush cocktail?

Choose a bourbon with moderate proof (40-45% ABV) and balanced flavour profile. Mid-range options like Buffalo Trace, Maker's Mark, or Four Roses Small Batch work brilliantly. Their caramel and vanilla notes complement the honey while standing up to the lemon's acidity.

Can I make honey syrup in advance for multiple cocktails?

Absolutely! Honey syrup can be prepared in batch and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Simply combine equal parts honey and hot water, stir until dissolved, and let cool completely before using in your cocktails.

Is a Gold Rush similar to a Whiskey Sour?

Yes, the Gold Rush is essentially a whiskey sour variation that uses honey syrup instead of simple syrup. Both cocktails feature the same core formula of spirit + sweetener + citrus, but the Gold Rush's honey component creates a richer, more complex flavour profile with floral notes.

Want to try something else in ...

Whiskey / Bourbon / Rye-Based Cocktails

Try following recommended recipes

View all
An elegant highball glass showcases the Whiskey Buck with large, crystal-clear ice cubes catching the amber glow of whiskey as it mingles with the golden hue of ginger beer. Condensation beads dramatically on the glass under warm, directional lighting that highlights the drink's effervescence. A plump wedge of lime perches on the rim, while a thin slice of fresh ginger is partially submerged in the cocktail. The drink sits on a rustic wooden bar top with a small copper jigger visible in the soft-focus background, suggesting craft and precision. Bubbles rise continuously through the drink, creating dynamic movement against the deep caramel tones of the whiskey.
Cocktails
Whiskey / Bourbon / Rye-Based Cocktails

Whiskey Buck Recipe

A zesty, spicy, and refreshing long drink where robust whiskey meets the fiery bite of ginger and bright citrus for a perfectly balanced and invigorating experience.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
3 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A frosty copper mug captures the Kentucky Mule in all its glory, condensation beading on its metallic surface. Golden-amber bourbon glistens beneath a layer of effervescent ginger beer, with crushed ice peeking through the clear liquid. A wedge of lime is perched on the rim, while additional lime wheels and fresh mint sprigs create a pop of vibrant green against the copper backdrop. Warm bar lighting accentuates the metallic sheen of the mug and highlights the dancing bubbles rising through the cocktail. A small wooden board with bourbon and fresh ginger roots sits alongside, suggesting the authentic ingredients that create this refreshing yet warming classic.
Cocktails
Whiskey / Bourbon / Rye-Based Cocktails

Kentucky Mule Recipe

A vibrant, spicy-sweet fusion of bourbon and ginger beer with a bright citrus kick that perfectly balances warmth and refreshment in every sip.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
3 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A crystal rocks glass sits on a polished wooden bar, catching amber light that accentuates the deep burnished-copper hue of the cocktail. A large, clear ice cube occupies the center, slowly melting against the rich spirits. Wisps of applewood smoke linger above the glass, creating a dramatic atmosphere. A twist of orange peel and a bourbon-soaked cherry rest on the rim, while a small cinnamon stick serves as a stirrer. The glass shows condensation forming on its exterior, evidence of the perfectly chilled contents within. A small vial of maple syrup and smoked bitters sit nearby, hinting at the cocktail's key components.
Cocktails
Whiskey / Bourbon / Rye-Based Cocktails

Smoked Maple Old Fashioned Recipe

A sophisticated twist on a classic that marries rich maple sweetness with smoky undertones and warming bourbon for a deeply layered sipper that unfolds with each taste.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A backlit coupe glass reveals a stunning layered effect – golden whiskey sour base with a dramatic crimson wine float creating a sunset gradient. Close-up captures the textural contrast between the velvety white froth and the ruby-red wine layer. Crystal-clear ice complements the amber-to-burgundy color transition. Moody bar lighting accentuates the separation between layers while casting intriguing shadows through the glass. A twisted lemon peel garnish rests elegantly on the rim, with its oils glistening on the cocktail's surface. Background features subtle whiskey barrel elements and wine bottles, emphasizing the cocktail's cross-category heritage.
Cocktails
Whiskey / Bourbon / Rye-Based Cocktails

New York Sour Recipe

A bold whiskey sour crowned with a ruby-red wine float that creates a striking dual-layer effect and merges bright citrus, smooth whiskey, and fruity wine in each sip.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A crystal-clear golden liquid fills a vintage rocks glass with a single oversized ice cube, its transparency belying the cocktail's rich complexity. Shot in dramatic low lighting that catches the prismatic edges of the glass, highlighting the remarkable clarity achieved through milk clarification. A delicate lemon twist rests on the rim, its oils creating subtle ripples across the surface. The setting suggests a sophisticated speakeasy with dark wood surfaces reflecting warm amber tones through the translucent cocktail, emphasizing its jewel-like quality against copper bar tools placed artfully in the background.
Cocktails
Whiskey / Bourbon / Rye-Based Cocktails

Clarified Whiskey Milk Punch Recipe

A silky-smooth, crystal-clear spirit forward cocktail that balances rich whiskey notes with subtle sweetness and bright citrus, delivering complexity through miraculous clarification.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
4 hours
Cook Time:
Serves:
6 cocktails
View recipe
An elegant coupe glass captures the Brown Derby in golden-hour lighting, showcasing its amber-honey color with subtle pink undertones. Condensation beads on the exterior of the chilled crystal glass, while a twist of grapefruit peel curls artfully over the rim, releasing essential oils that catch the light. The background features blurred bourbon bottles and vintage bar elements, creating a warm, sophisticated atmosphere that highlights the cocktail's classic heritage and appealing color contrast between the rich amber liquid and the vibrant citrus garnish.
Cocktails
Whiskey / Bourbon / Rye-Based Cocktails

Brown Derby Recipe

A sophisticated combination of bourbon's warmth, grapefruit's tart brightness, and honey's subtle sweetness creates a perfectly balanced cocktail with surprising depth and refreshing character.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A crystal rocks glass holds a single large ice sphere, its pristine clarity showcasing the deep amber-mahogany hue of the Black Walnut Old Fashioned. Golden light from vintage bar lamps reflects through the cocktail, creating caramel-colored reflections on the polished wooden bar top. Delicate oil patterns swirl across the surface from the expressed orange peel garnish, which rests elegantly on the rim alongside two brandied cherries. Droplets of condensation form on the glass's exterior, catching light like tiny jewels. A small bottle of black walnut bitters sits slightly blurred in the background, hinting at the cocktail's distinctive nutty character.
Cocktails
Whiskey / Bourbon / Rye-Based Cocktails

Black Walnut Old Fashioned Recipe

Rich black walnut mingles with barrel-aged bourbon, demerara sugar, and aromatic bitters for a sophisticated Old Fashioned that balances earthy depth with subtle sweetness.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A tall highball glass filled with amber liquid and large, crystal-clear ice cubes, backlit by warm bar lighting that highlights the whiskey's golden hues. Cinnamon sticks and star anise peek out from the top, with a perfectly positioned orange slice garnish on the rim. Droplets of condensation form on the glass's exterior, suggesting refreshing coldness despite the cocktail's warming character. A wooden coaster sits underneath, complementing the rustic spices while conveying the drink's Indian-inspired heritage.
Cocktails
Whiskey / Bourbon / Rye-Based Cocktails

Patiala Peg Recipe

A robust double-measure whiskey highball with a rich medley of warm spices, fresh citrus, and honey sweetness that delivers a powerful yet balanced drinking experience.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A crystal rocks glass capturing golden hour light, showcasing a rich amber whiskey sour with a perfect white egg foam cap creating textural contrast. Droplets of condensation cling to the glass exterior, suggesting refreshing coldness. A lemon wheel and brandied cherry rest artfully on the foam's surface, their vibrant colors popping against the drink's caramel tones. Ice cubes catch the light beneath the liquid, creating a dimensional glow. Background bar elements remain tastefully blurred, keeping focus on the perfectly balanced classic cocktail.
Cocktails
Whiskey / Bourbon / Rye-Based Cocktails

Whiskey Sour – Bourbon Recipe

A perfectly balanced symphony of robust bourbon, bright lemon, and sweet syrup that dances between refreshing tartness and mellow warmth.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A crystal rocks glass holds a rich amber Manhattan, the liquid catching warm, golden bar lighting that highlights its clarity and depth. A single large ice cube sits centered in the glass, slowly melting to maintain the perfect temperature without over-dilution. A twist of orange peel curls elegantly over the rim, its essential oils creating a thin, reflective film on the surface. Droplets of condensation form on the outside of the glass, suggesting the perfect chill. The cocktail sits on a dark wooden bar beside a small crystal mixing glass with remnants of bitters, suggesting the craft that went into its creation. The deep mahogany tones of the bourbon create a striking contrast against the polished bar surface.
Cocktails
Whiskey / Bourbon / Rye-Based Cocktails

Bourbon Manhattan Recipe

A sophisticated symphony of robust bourbon whiskey, sweet vermouth, and aromatic bitters creating a perfect balance of warmth, sweetness, and complexity in every sip.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
{ "@context": "http://schema.org/", "@type": "Recipe", "name": "Gold Rush Recipe", "image": ["https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/67f19ab882e7325b0d63c86a/684397db4a5447331f629317_Leonardo_Phoenix_10_A_rocks_glass_filled_with_a_brilliantly_am_0.jpeg"], "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Gurbir Aujla", "brand": "What's Baking?", "jobTitle": "Mixologist" }, "datePublished": "2024-06-04", "description": "Master this homemade Gold Rush cocktail recipe with the perfect balance of bourbon, honey syrup, and fresh lemon juice. This easy craft cocktail brings speakeasy-quality drinks to your home bar. The best bourbon cocktail when you want something refreshingly sweet yet complex - absolutely fool-proof for both beginners and mixology enthusiasts.", "prepTime": "PT5M", "totalTime": "PT5M", "keywords": "gold rush cocktail, bourbon honey cocktail, whiskey sour variation, craft cocktail recipe", "recipeYield": "1", "recipeCategory": "Cocktail", "recipeCuisine": "American", "nutrition": { "@type": "NutritionInformation", "calories": "220 calories", "carbohydrateContent": "26 g", "proteinContent": "0 g", "fatContent": "0 g", "saturatedFatContent": "0 g", "cholesterolContent": "0 mg", "sodiumContent": "1 mg", "sugarContent": "25 g", "alcoholContent": "24 g", "servingSize": "1 cocktail" }, "recipeIngredient": [ "60ml bourbon whiskey", "22.5ml honey syrup (equal parts honey and hot water, cooled)", "22.5ml fresh lemon juice", "Lemon twist for garnish", "Ice cubes" ], "recipeInstructions": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Prepare honey syrup", "text": "Prepare your honey syrup by mixing equal parts honey and hot water, stirring until completely dissolved. Allow to cool completely before using - this creates a mixable sweetener that incorporates smoothly into cold ingredients without clumping." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Chill glass", "text": "Fill your rocks glass with ice (preferably one large cube if available) to chill it while you prepare the cocktail. This pre-chilling ensures your drink stays colder longer and prevents excessive dilution." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Add ingredients", "text": "Fill your cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add 60ml bourbon, 22.5ml honey syrup, and 22.5ml fresh lemon juice. Measure carefully - the perfect Gold Rush balances the bourbon's strength with the right amount of sweetness and acidity." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Shake", "text": "Seal the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds. You're not just mixing ingredients but also aerating the cocktail, which creates a silky mouthfeel while properly chilling and diluting the drink. The shaker should become frosty on the outside." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Prepare glass", "text": "Discard the ice from your chilled rocks glass and replace with fresh ice - ideally one large cube which will melt more slowly, maintaining the cocktail's integrity." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Strain", "text": "Strain the cocktail from the shaker into your prepared glass. A proper strain ensures no ice chips or lemon pulp make it into the final presentation." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Garnish", "text": "Cut a strip of lemon peel about 5cm long. Twist it over the drink to express the oils onto the surface - you'll see a fine mist land on the cocktail, adding aromatic complexity. Rub the peel around the rim of the glass before placing it as a garnish." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Serve", "text": "Serve immediately while the cocktail is perfectly chilled. The Gold Rush should appear golden-amber with a subtle sheen from the honey and a refreshing aroma from the lemon oils." } ], "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "5", "ratingCount": "137" }, "review": [ { "@type": "Review", "author": "Elena Vasquez", "datePublished": "2024-05-20", "reviewBody": "This Gold Rush cocktail has the perfect balance of honey and bourbon! The honey syrup technique ensures it blends perfectly without clumping. It's become my signature cocktail when entertaining guests.", "name": "Perfect Balance", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Aiden O'Connor", "datePublished": "2024-05-23", "reviewBody": "I've made this Gold Rush for several summer gatherings and it's always a crowd-pleaser! The large ice cube technique really helps maintain the drink's integrity without watering it down. Better than any I've had at expensive craft bars.", "name": "Summer Favorite", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Mei-Lin Zhang", "datePublished": "2024-05-25", "reviewBody": "Absolutely foolproof recipe! I'm new to cocktail making but this Gold Rush turned out refreshingly smooth with such complex flavors. The expressed lemon oils make all the difference in the finished drink.", "name": "Impressive Results", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Tomas Fernandez", "datePublished": "2024-05-28", "reviewBody": "The honey syrup elevates this cocktail beautifully! I've tried other honey bourbon drinks but the proportions in this Gold Rush recipe create the perfect balance. It's rich yet refreshing - my go-to impressive cocktail now.", "name": "Perfectly Balanced", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Amara Okafor", "datePublished": "2024-06-01", "reviewBody": "This Gold Rush cocktail has become my signature drink! The attention to detail in the instructions about proper shaking and garnishing techniques really makes a difference. It tastes like it came from an upscale cocktail bar!", "name": "Bar-Quality Results", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } } ] }
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What ingredients are used in Gold Rush Recipe?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A Gold Rush requires bourbon whiskey, honey syrup (made from equal parts honey and hot water), and fresh lemon juice. It's garnished with a lemon twist. The ratio is typically 60ml bourbon to 22.5ml each of honey syrup and lemon juice." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How to make Gold Rush Recipe at home?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Learn how to make Gold Rush Recipe by combining bourbon, honey syrup and fresh lemon juice in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until properly chilled, then strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a lemon twist, expressing the oils over the surface for added aroma and complexity." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What's the best bourbon to use in a Gold Rush cocktail?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Choose a bourbon with moderate proof (40-45% ABV) and balanced flavour profile. Mid-range options like Buffalo Trace, Maker's Mark, or Four Roses Small Batch work brilliantly. Their caramel and vanilla notes complement the honey while standing up to the lemon's acidity." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I make honey syrup in advance for multiple cocktails?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Absolutely! Honey syrup can be prepared in batch and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Simply combine equal parts honey and hot water, stir until dissolved, and let cool completely before using in your cocktails." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is a Gold Rush similar to a Whiskey Sour?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, the Gold Rush is essentially a whiskey sour variation that uses honey syrup instead of simple syrup. Both cocktails feature the same core formula of spirit + sweetener + citrus, but the Gold Rush's honey component creates a richer, more complex flavour profile with floral notes." } } ] }