Each ingredient in this Old Fashioned has so many layers of flavor that it’s not surprising how good this cocktail is. It’s a slow sipper, so you can savor every aspect of it. Drink responsibly! Bourbon or rye is the backbone of the drink. Each brand has unique qualities, so choose one you love. I’ve been into bourbon cocktails lately. Have you tried this Vanilla Bourbon Fizz, with bourbon, vanilla, and prosecco? So good! Along with the bourbon, you’ll taste the herbal and spice notes of Angostura bitters. Bitters are a common ingredient added to cocktails and there are different kinds: aromatic, citrus, herbal, and nut. Aromatic Angostura bitters have been around for a long, long time and the secret formula reportedly contains herbs, spices, bark and alcohol. Because of their potent flavor, bitters are measured by “dashes” or drops, not ounces. (I love chocolate bitters!)
About this cocktail
This Maple Old Fashioned substitutes a bit of maple syrup for the usual sugar cube, giving this cocktail another layer of sweet woodsy flavor. For sure you’ll want to use real maple syrup, not pancake syrups which are basically corn syrup with artificial flavoring. This bourbon cocktail can be easily made in five minutes. An Old Fashioned is stirred, not shaken, and it’s served over ice in a short glass, called a rocks glass, lowball glass, or even sometimes, you guessed it, an old fashioned glass. You’ll find directions on the recipe card below for making individual cocktails or a pitcher, with four servings.
What you need
This recipe contains what you’d expect in a classic old fashioned, except for the maple syrup. In addition to the maple syrup, make sure your bar is stocked with Angostura bitters, Bourbon (or rye), Orange peel and cherry for garnish, and ice. Traditional ice will work, but I also love to use a large square or round ice cube.
How to make this drink your own
If you prefer a sweeter drink, feel free to add more maple syrup or a sugar cube. If you really love maple flavor, add a drop of pure maple extract. For a fun variation, add ½ ounce of freshly squeezed orange juice. I love making an Old Fashioned with chocolate bitters. It’s unbelievably good!
More sippers
Here’s a few more ideas to spark your interest. You’ll want to try them all!
Classic Gin and Tonic Recipe with tips to make the best! Cranberry Gin and Tonic with Rosemary Orange Gin and Tonic with Cinnamon Apple Cider Mule (Fall Moscow Mule) Cranberry Margarita Recipe Orange Mojito Pomegranate Mojito Recipe Cherry French 75 Cherry Martini with Elderflower and Lime
