Revamping the Classic Old Fashioned: Discover Traditional and Twisted Recipes

Dive into the world of classic cocktails with our latest article: 'Revamping the Classic Old Fashioned: Traditional Recipe with a Twist'. Discover how to add a modern spin to this timeless drink!"

Classic Old Fashioned cocktail in a traditional glass, garnished with an orange peel on a wooden bar top.

The Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail; it’s a testament to timeless elegance and simplicity in mixology. Originating in the early 19th century, this classic drink has stood the test of time, charming generations with its robust and smooth flavor profile. While the traditional recipe remains a favorite, there are numerous ways to add a twist to this classic, making it even more intriguing. Let’s explore the classic Old Fashioned recipe and some creative variations to spice up your cocktail game.

The Classic Old Fashioned Recipe:

At its core, the Old Fashioned is a straightforward cocktail with just a few key ingredients:

  • 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey

  • 2-3 dashes of Angostura Bitters

  • 1 Sugar Cube (or 1/2 tsp loose sugar)

  • Splash of Water

  • Ice Cubes

  • Orange Peel for Garnish

Instructions:

  1. Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass and saturate it with bitters. Add a splash of water.

  2. Muddle these ingredients until the sugar is dissolved.

  3. Fill the glass with ice cubes and add the whiskey.

  4. Stir the cocktail until it’s chilled.

  5. Garnish with an orange peel, expressing (squeezing) the oil over the drink.

Twists on the Classic:

  • Maple Old Fashioned

    Swap the sugar cube for a dash of maple syrup for a richer, autumnal flavor. The syrup’s natural sweetness complements the whiskey’s complexity.

  • Smoked Old Fashioned

Add a smoky dimension by either using a smoked glass or a splash of a peated Scotch. This version is perfect for those who appreciate a deeper, more intense flavor profile.

  • Cherry Chocolate Old Fashioned

Muddle a few cherries along with the sugar, then add a dash of chocolate bitters instead of the traditional Angostura. This variant offers a decadent, dessert-like experience.

Smoked Old Fashioned cocktail being prepared with a smoking gun, adding a layer of peaty aroma.
  • Spiced Old Fashioned

Introduce a stick of cinnamon and a few cloves during the muddling process for a spiced version. Ideal for the holiday season, this twist brings a warm and festive flair.

  • Herbal Old Fashioned

Replace the orange peel with a fresh sprig of rosemary or thyme. The herbs’ aroma adds a refreshing and earthy note to the cocktail.

The beauty of the Old Fashioned lies in its simplicity and the ease with which it can be adapted. Whether you stick with the classic or experiment with a twist, this cocktail never fails to impress. Next time you’re hosting or simply enjoying a quiet evening, try one of these variations and savor the rich history and versatility of the Old Fashioned.


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Akeshi Akinseye

Akeshi Akinseye is the founder and CEO of Kesh Events and is the leading expert in the wedding and event industry on all things celebrations.

She is widely regarded as One of the best Wedding planners in America by Brides, Top 5 wedding vendors in the world by WEDLUXE, top wedding planner in Chicago by PartySlate and more. 

Her insights and work have been featured in national publications like Brides, PartySlate, Modern Luxury Weddings, Inside Weddings, Yahoo, ESPN, New York Times etc and she appears regularly in media outlets like ABC, The Tribune and more.

She is the author of the best-selling book, The Art of Floral And Event Design” and founder and editor of celebrations and lifestyle magazine, The Art of Celebrating. Her creativity, keen eye, attention to detail and knack for perfection is what her clients love about her. She brings the art of creativity and personalization to every single event making her the best at what she does. Akeshi honors the individual styles of her clients and she continually strives to make every experience one to remember.

http://www.akeshiakinseye.com
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