Classic Old Fashioned

Classic Old Fashioned

Classic Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail that combines the richness of bourbon or rye whiskey with a hint of sweetness and the depth of aromatic bitters. Built directly in the glass over a large ice cube and finished with a twist of orange zest, it’s the ultimate sipper for those who appreciate bold, no-frills elegance in a drink. Ideal for evenings, slow conversations, and serious whiskey lovers.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 1

Course: beverage, cocktail

Cuisine: American, classic

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

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• 2 teaspoons simple syrup
• 1 teaspoon water
• 2 dashes bitters
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1 1.5 fluid ounce jigger bourbon whiskey
• 1 slice orange
• 1 maraschino cherry

Equipment

• Old fashioned glass
• Bar spoon
• Muddler (optional)
• Jigger or measuring tool
• Ice (large cube preferred)
• Peeler or zester (for garnish)

Method

 

1. Gather all ingredients.
2. Pour simple syrup, water, and bitters into a whiskey glass; stir to combine.
3. Add ice cubes and pour in bourbon.
4. Garnish with orange slice and maraschino cherry.
5. Enjoy!

Notes

Smooth, spirit-forward, and perfectly balanced, this cocktail proves that less is more when it comes to true classics.

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You don’t have to be a mixologist to make a perfect old fashioned. This classic old fashioned recipe feels fancy, but it’s incredibly easy to make.

What Is An Old Fashioned?

An old fashioned is a classic whiskey cocktail with bitters, simple syrup, and fruit. Experts believe the drink is called the “old fashioned” because it’s one of the first widely known cocktails ever. The name comes from people ordering the drink the “old-fashioned way.

How to Make An Old Fashioned

It’s not hard to make a perfect old fashioned — you just need a good recipe! You’ll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the recipe below, but let’s go over the basics:

Old Fashioned Ingredients

These are the ingredients you’ll need to make this top-rated old fashioned recipe:

• Simple syrup: Use store-bought simple syrup or make your own at home.
• Water: A teaspoon of water helps bring out the flavor of the bourbon.
• Bitters: Use store-bought bitters or make your own at home.
• Ice: Traditional old fashioned cocktails are served over ice.
• Bourbon: Of course, you’ll need bourbon! You can use rye whiskey instead, if you like.
• Garnishes: Garnish your old fashioned with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.