The Old Fashioned cocktail is a timeless classic that has been enjoyed for generations. This simple yet sophisticated drink combines the rich flavors of bourbon or rye whiskey with the subtle sweetness of sugar and the aromatic complexity of angostura bitters. A twist of orange peel adds a refreshing citrus note, making it the perfect drink for any occasion.
While most of the ingredients for an Old Fashioned cocktail are commonly found in many households, you might need to pick up a few items at the supermarket. Angostura bitters is a key ingredient that may not be in your pantry, but it can be found in the cocktail or baking section of most grocery stores. Additionally, if you don't already have bourbon or rye whiskey, you'll need to visit the liquor section to find a good quality bottle.
Ingredients For Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
Bourbon: A type of American whiskey known for its rich, sweet flavor. Rye whiskey: An alternative to bourbon, offering a spicier and more robust taste. Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the strong flavors of the whiskey and bitters. Angostura bitters: A concentrated bitters made from herbs and spices, essential for adding depth and complexity to the cocktail. Orange peel: Used as a garnish to add a fresh citrus aroma and flavor.
Technique Tip for Making an Old Fashioned
When muddling the sugar and bitters, ensure you use a gentle but firm pressure to fully dissolve the sugar. This helps to release the essential oils from the bitters and creates a well-balanced base for the whiskey. Additionally, using a large ice cube slows down the dilution, keeping your Old Fashioned perfectly chilled without watering it down too quickly.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
bourbon - Substitute with brandy: Brandy offers a similar depth and warmth, making it a suitable alternative for a rich and flavorful Old Fashioned.
rye whiskey - Substitute with scotch: Scotch provides a smoky and complex flavor profile that can add a unique twist to the traditional Old Fashioned.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a slight floral note, which can enhance the overall flavor of the cocktail.
sugar cube - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a rich, caramel-like sweetness that pairs well with the whiskey.
angostura bitters - Substitute with orange bitters: Orange bitters provide a citrusy and aromatic touch, complementing the whiskey and adding a refreshing twist.
orange peel - Substitute with lemon peel: Lemon peel offers a zesty and bright aroma, which can add a refreshing contrast to the deep flavors of the Old Fashioned.
Alternative Recipes Similar to an Old Fashioned
How to Store or Freeze This Cocktail
- To store your Old Fashioned cocktail, pour any leftover drink into an airtight container or a glass bottle with a tight seal. This will help maintain its flavor and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.
- Keep the container in the refrigerator. The cold temperature will help preserve the whiskey and bitters mixture, ensuring it stays fresh for up to a week.
- If you want to prepare the cocktail in advance, mix the whiskey and bitters with the sugar, but leave out the ice and orange peel garnish. Store this mixture in the refrigerator and add the ice and garnish just before serving.
- For freezing, pour the cocktail mixture (excluding the ice and garnish) into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method allows you to enjoy a perfectly chilled Old Fashioned whenever you desire.
- When ready to serve, simply place a few cocktail cubes in an old fashioned glass, let them melt slightly, and then add a fresh orange peel twist for garnish.
- Always use fresh orange peel for garnishing, as it adds a burst of citrus aroma and flavor that enhances the overall experience of the Old Fashioned cocktail.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- Pour the Old Fashioned cocktail into a small saucepan.
- Warm it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Do not let it boil.
- Alternatively, you can place the Old Fashioned cocktail in a microwave-safe glass.
- Microwave on low power in 10-second intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches your desired temperature.
- Once warmed, pour the cocktail back into an old fashioned glass.
- Add a fresh large ice cube and garnish with a new orange peel twist.
Best Tools for Crafting an Old Fashioned
Old fashioned glass: A short, sturdy glass traditionally used for serving the Old Fashioned cocktail.
Muddler: A tool used to crush the sugar and bitters together to help dissolve the sugar.
Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring the cocktail gently to combine the ingredients.
Jigger: A measuring tool used to ensure the correct amount of whiskey is added.
Peeler: A tool used to create a twist of orange peel for garnish.
Large ice cube tray: A tray used to make large ice cubes that melt slowly, keeping the drink cold without diluting it too quickly.
How to Save Time on Making This Cocktail
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the whiskey, sugar, and bitters ahead of time to streamline the process.
Use simple syrup: Replace the sugar cube with simple syrup to dissolve faster.
Batch cocktails: Prepare a larger quantity of the cocktail mix in advance and store it in the fridge.
Pre-cut garnishes: Slice the orange peel ahead of time and store it in an airtight container.
Use large ice cubes: Keep large ice cubes ready in the freezer to chill the drink quickly without diluting it.

Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 oz Whiskey Bourbon or Rye
- 1 teaspoon Sugar or 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- 1 twist Orange Peel for garnish
Instructions
- 1. Place the sugar and bitters in an Old Fashioned glass.
- 2. Muddle until the sugar is dissolved.
- 3. Add the whiskey and a large ice cube.
- 4. Stir gently to combine.
- 5. Garnish with the orange peel.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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