Recipe
There’s something timelessly satisfying about a perfectly crafted Old Fashioned, and this homemade version? It’s absolutely foolproof. I’ve made it countless times—for friends, family, and even myself after a long day—and it never disappoints.
The magic lies in the simplicity: just whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a touch of orange peel. No fancy syrups, no overpowering garnishes—just pure, unadulterated flavor.
The first sip hits you with the smooth warmth of bourbon, balanced by the subtle sweetness and a hint of citrus aroma. It’s rich, it’s classic, and it’s exactly what an Old Fashioned should be.
Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never go back to store-bought mixes. Grab your favorite whiskey and let’s get mixing—this one’s a game-changer.
Ingredients
The key to nailing an Old Fashioned lies in using quality ingredients—each one plays a vital role in achieving that timeless, balanced flavor. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some insider tips to make your drink shine:
- Whiskey: Opt for bourbon or rye whiskey for the base. Bourbon offers a sweeter, smoother profile, while rye brings a spicier kick. Use a mid-range bottle—something you’d sip neat.
- Sugar: A sugar cube or 1 tsp of granulated sugar works best. The graininess helps release the bitters evenly. If you’re out of sugar, a splash of simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water) is a fine substitute.
- Bitters: Angostura bitters are non-negotiable. Their aromatic blend of spices and herbs is the soul of the drink.
- Orange Peel: Fresh is key—you’ll use it for both garnish and flavor. A thick peel releases essential oils, adding a citrusy aroma. No orange? A lemon peel can work in a pinch.
- Ice: Use one large ice cube or sphere if you have it. It melts slower, keeping your drink chilled without diluting it too quickly.
- Cherry (optional): For a classic touch, add a Luxardo or maraschino cherry as a garnish. It’s a little extra that elevates the presentation and adds a hint of sweetness.
Pro Tip: Always use fresh ingredients—especially the orange peel and bitters—to guarantee the flavors pop. Skip the pre-made mixes; this cocktail is all about simplicity and quality.
How to Make the Best Classic Bourbon Old Fashioned
- Express the orange peel: Hold the orange peel over the glass with the skin side down. Gently twist or squeeze it to release the citrus oils, then rub the peel around the rim of the glass. This adds a bright, aromatic finish to the cocktail.
- Garnish and serve: Place the orange peel in the glass as a garnish. Your Old Fashioned is now ready to enjoy—sip slowly and savor the balanced flavors.
- Pro tip: If you don’t have a sugar cube, 1/2 teaspoon of granulated sugar works just as well. Adjust the sweetness to your taste.
- Pro tip: Avoid over-muddling the sugar, as it can make the drink gritty.
- Watch out: Avoid using too much bitters—2-3 dashes are perfect. Overdoing it can overpower the bourbon’s flavor.
- Watch out: Skip pre-made mixes; the classic method is simple and yields a superior result.
Nutrition
The Old Fashioned cocktail is a classic drink with a simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients. Below is the nutritional information for one serving.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 154 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 6.6 g |
| Sugars | 5.9 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 1 mg |
Chef Tips
While making an Old Fashioned might seem straightforward, I’ll share a few tips to elevate your cocktail game.
Use a high-quality bourbon or rye for depth of flavor.
Muddle the sugar cube with just a splash of water—no need to overdo it.
Add ice last to avoid dilution.
Stir gently to chill without bruising the spirits.
Finish with an orange twist for aromatic complexity.
Cheers!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Whiskey Instead of Bourbon?
Yes, I can use whiskey instead of bourbon. While bourbon’s sweeter, smoother notes are traditional, whiskey works just fine for an Old Fashioned. I’ll adjust to its bolder or smokier flavor, depending on the type I choose.
How Long Can I Store an Old Fashioned?
I’d store an old fashioned for up to 2 days in the fridge, but it’s best fresh. The ice dilutes it over time, and the flavors fade. I wouldn’t keep it longer than that.
What’s the Best Type of Sugar to Use?
For an Old Fashioned, I prefer using a sugar cube or demerara sugar because they dissolve slowly, adding depth to the drink. If I don’t have those, I’ll use simple syrup for smooth sweetness.
Can I Make a Non-Alcoholic Version?
Yes, I can make a non-alcoholic version! Swap bourbon for a mix of strong brewed tea and apple cider, keep the bitters, sugar, and orange peel—it’ll taste similar but won’t have any alcohol in it.
Why Is It Called an Old Fashioned?
I think it’s called an old fashioned because it’s one of the oldest known cocktails, dating back to the early 1800s. The name refers to its simple, traditional recipe—just whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist.
