Homemade Cough Syrup Recipe with Bourbon (Old-Fashioned, Peppermint & Lemon!)

If you’ve ever wanted a truly comforting homemade cough syrup recipe with bourbon, you’re in for a treat—and maybe a bit of nostalgia too. This cozy concoction comes straight from old family kitchens, where a jar of syrup sat in the cupboard all winter, ready to soothe a scratchy throat with a little grown-up magic. The secret? Crushed candy canes, sweet honey, fresh lemon, and Kentucky bourbon. It’s part home remedy, part holiday cheer, and just as much about the ritual as the results.

I started making this after hearing stories of my grandma and her friends swearing by their “secret syrup” for coughs and colds. Honestly, the first time I saw candy canes going into a jar, I thought it was a holiday prank! But the result is deliciously soothing: peppermint for cooling, honey and lemon for comfort, and bourbon for a gentle warmth that chases away winter chills. If you love old-school, simple remedies (or just want to try something new), this homemade cough syrup recipe with bourbon is a must.

Why This Is the Best Homemade Cough Syrup Recipe with Bourbon

Soothing, Not Harsh: Peppermint helps cool and clear, lemon brightens, honey soothes, and bourbon warms.
Super Simple: No cooking required! Just layer, stir, and let time work its magic.
Nostalgic and Fun: It’s as much a conversation starter as a remedy.
Perfect for Gifting: A small jar (with a “for adults only!” tag) is a thoughtful winter treat.

Ingredients

20–25 hard peppermint candy canes or starlight mints, crushed (about half a quart jar)
4 lemon slices (from 1–2 fresh lemons)
⅓ cup honey (local if possible)
Kentucky bourbon (enough to fill a quart jar, about 2 cups)

Instructions

Crush the Peppermint:
Unwrap and crush the candy canes or peppermint candies until you have enough to fill your jar halfway.
Layer the Jar:
In a clean quart mason jar, add the crushed peppermint. Layer lemon slices on top.
Add Honey:
Drizzle in the honey for sweetness and soothing.
Fill with Bourbon:
Pour in the Kentucky bourbon until the jar is full and all ingredients are submerged.
Stir Well:
Stir gently to combine. Some of the peppermint may dissolve right away.
Seal and Store:
Screw the lid on tightly and store the jar in a cool, dark cupboard for at least 6 weeks. Give it a gentle shake every few days to help everything blend.
To Use:
Take 1–2 teaspoons as needed for coughs, sore throats, or just a little comfort (adults only). Strain before serving if you prefer a clear syrup.

Pro Tips & Variations

No bourbon on hand? Try brandy or rye whiskey.
For extra soothing: Add a slice of fresh ginger or a cinnamon stick before sealing.
More kid-friendly: You can skip the bourbon and fill the jar with hot (not boiling) water, but the texture and flavor will be different and it will not keep as long.

Is It Safe? (And Other FAQ)

Can I make this homemade cough syrup recipe without alcohol?
Yes, substitute hot water for bourbon, but it will have a different shelf life and flavor.

How long does homemade cough syrup with bourbon last?
Sealed and kept in a cool, dark place, it can last up to 6 months.

Can I use other peppermint candies?
Absolutely! Any hard peppermint will work, so use what you have.

Is this safe for kids?
This recipe is intended for adults only, as it contains alcohol.

For more about safe home remedies, check out Mayo Clinic’s Cough Remedies. ← (Outbound link for reader safety and SEO)

Craving more old-fashioned comfort? Try one of these reader favorites:

Warm up your table with our Old-Fashioned Creamed Corn Recipe, a classic side for cozy nights.
Or bake up the Best Strawberry Bread Recipe—a sweet treat perfect for sharing with friends over coffee.

Serving & Storage

Store tightly sealed in a cool, dark cupboard.
Shake gently before each use.
Strain before serving if you want a clear syrup.
Keeps for months, but best flavor after at least 6 weeks.

Fun Food Question

What’s your family’s most unusual home remedy? Did your grandma keep a “secret” syrup or potion in the pantry? Share your stories (and tips) in the comments below! And if you try this homemade cough syrup recipe with bourbon, let us know how it works for you.