Classic Old Fashioned
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The Classic Old Fashioned is timeless for a reason. Just three ingredients, no fluff, all flavor. It’s bold, warming, and perfect for slow sipping. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in, a pre-dinner drink, or someone who says, “I don’t like cocktails, I just like bourbon,” — this one always delivers.
It’s the kind of drink that makes you feel like you have your life together (even if you’re just in your pajamas watching Netflix).
What is an Old Fashioned?
The beauty of the Old Fashioned is its simplicity. It highlights the bourbon, adds just enough sweetness from syrup, and gets a touch of spice and depth from Angostura bitters. There’s no citrus juice, no shaking… just balance.
The trick is using a syrup that complements your bourbon. A classic simple syrup works, but you can easily play with flavor here. I’ve gone for a combo of demerara and cherry syrup for my Freezer Door Old Fashioned recipe (below). I also add orange bitters to play up the citrus notes.
How to Make Classic Simple Syrup
In a saucepan over medium heat, add equal parts water and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Take off the heat and let cool completely. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. That’s it!
Old Fashioned Cocktail Ingredients
- Bourbon – Choose one with a little richness and vanilla or caramel notes. Rye works too for a spicier version.
- Simple syrup – Classic 1:1 sugar-water mix, or try brown sugar syrup, maple syrup, or even a cinnamon-clove syrup for a seasonal vibe.
- Angostura bitters – Just enough to give it that aromatic, slightly spicy depth.
- Garnish – An orange peel adds aroma and a touch of brightness to each sip.
Classic Old Fashioned
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- ½ oz simple syrup or flavored syrup of choice
- 3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Ice
- Garnish: orange peel or cherry
Instructions
- Add syrup and bitters to a mixing glass.
- Add bourbon and fill with ice.
- Stir for 20–30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Express an orange peel over the top and garnish.
Tips & Variations
- Use different bitters – Try chocolate bitters, orange bitters, or even a dash of Peychaud’s for a twist.
- Go smoked – Smoke the glass or add a smoked syrup for extra drama.
- Switch the spirit – Try with rye whiskey, rum, or even reposado tequila for a fun riff.
- Change the syrup – I switched it up with demerara and cherry syrup for the freezer door old fashioned, but you can also make an apple pie syrup, cinnamon syrup, honey syrup, rosemary syrup, or anything else your heart desires.
When to Serve an Old Fashioned
This classic cocktail is a go-to when you want something strong, simple, and reliable. Perfect for:
- After-dinner sipping
- Holiday gatherings (especially with a seasonal syrup)
- Game night or poker night energy
- Impressing your whiskey-loving friends with minimal effort
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