How To Make An Old Fashioned | Easy Classic co*cktail Recipe for One! (2024)

This Old Fashioned is a timeless classic co*cktail that combines bourbon, sugar, spiced Angostura bitters, and a hint of citrus for a sophisticated and balanced drink. Ready in just 2 minutes, this co*cktail is impeccably smooth and perfect for savoring every sip!

Table of Contents

• Why I Love This Classic co*cktail
• Old Fashioned Ingredients
• How To Make An Old Fashioned co*cktail
• Get the Recipe
• More Easy co*cktail Recipes To Try

Why I Love This Classic co*cktail

Growing up, the classic old fashioned was my mom’s drink of choice, and I remember the rich, complex aroma filling the room. Now, it’s my go-to co*cktail when I want something sophisticated and refined. This recipe captures those cherished memories in a glass, blending bourbon, bitters, and a hint of citrus perfectly. Here’s why I love this old fashioned recipe:

• Timeless Classic:A sophisticated and elegant co*cktail that never goes out of style.
• Fancy, But Easy: Ready in just 2 minutes,you don’t need to be a co*cktail master to make this impressive and sophisticated drink.
• Party Of One: This old fashioned recipe is perfect for a single serving. Double or triple it as needed!
• Aromatic: Angostura bitters, toasty bourbon, and an orange peel give each sip a lovely aroma.

Looking for more simple co*cktail recipes? Try my favorite mint mojito, fresh grapefruit paloma, or light and fruity coconut margarita!

Old Fashioned Ingredients

Sweet bourbon, aromatic bitters, and a tart cherry give this old fashioned co*cktail its sophisticated flavor profile. Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact ingredient amounts.

• Granulated Sugar: You can use regular granulated sugar or a single sugar cube to look like a fancy bartender while preparing the co*cktail. Feel free to use light brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor.
• Angostura Bitters: For the most classic taste, use the original angostura bitters. However, I personally love the orange bitters, and some enjoy the cocoa bitters. Try them all to see which makes your favorite old fashioned co*cktail.
• Ice: Old fashioned co*cktails are meant to be sipped slowly. Using a large ice cube ensures the ice melts slowly so your co*cktail does not become watered down. You can usually find them for sale at the liquor store or make your own with square molds or sphere molds.
• Bourbon or Rye Whiskey: Use your favorite. The barrel it was kept in will give it a toasty oak or sweet vanilla flavor.
• Orange Peel: Dried peels work too, but a fresh orange peel adds the most flavor and aromatics.
• Cherry: Go for a maraschino cherry or fresh cherries, or use fancy co*cktail cherries to elevate your co*cktail to another level.

What’s The Best Liquor For An Old Fashioned?

Bourbon and rye whiskey are the best types of liquor for old fashioned co*cktails. Bourbon is mellow and sweeter, whereas rye whiskey is spicier and has a drier kick to it. When made with bourbon, the drink will have a smooth finish. With whiskey, it’ll feel sharper.

How To Make An Old Fashioned co*cktail

A single, large ice cube allows a slow melt, preventing this old fashioned from becoming watered down too quickly. Below is a quick recipe overview, but pleasescroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post for full instructions.

• Muddle: Muddle the sugar and bitters in a short rocks glass to combine the flavors. Add the ice and pour in the bourbon.
• Garnish and serve: Use your fingers to twist the orange peel over the glass to release the oils, then drop it into the co*cktail and add a cherry. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Top shelf: Since the old fashioned is a simple co*cktail with just a few ingredients, the quality really matters. Opt for top-shelf bourbon or rye whiskey for the best flavor.
• Chill the glass:I always like to pre-chill the glass for an extra cold co*cktail!
• More aroma: Rub the rim of the glass with the orange peel, gently squeezing as you move it along, to release its oils and aroma.
• Change the sweetener: Use dark brown sugar, raw honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar instead of sugar.
• Don’t shake it: Old fashioned co*cktails shouldn’t be shaken because the drink would dilute too much. You only need to stir it for about 20 seconds, giving it just enough time to chill.
• Make it fruity: Muddle 1-2 slices canned peaches, apricots, fresh blackberries, or pitted cherries with the sugar and bitters for a naturally sweeter and fruity drink.
• Swap the garnishes: Lemon and grapefruit peels, candied ginger, dehydrated orange slices, and a rosemary sprig can switch things up.

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