Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
Imagine a drink so iconic that ordering it makes you instantly cooler. The Old Fashioned isn’t just a cocktail—it’s a flex. No fancy gadgets, no neon colors, just pure, unfiltered swagger in a glass. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like Don Draper without the existential dread, this is your recipe.
What Makes This So Damn Good
The Old Fashioned is the O.G. of cocktails—literally. It’s been around since the 1800s, and for good reason. The balance of bold bourbon, sweet sugar, bitter bitters, and a twist of citrus is perfection. No frills, no nonsense, just a drink that demands respect.
Plus, it’s stupidly simple to make. You don’t need a mixology degree—just good ingredients and a willingness to look sophisticated while stirring.
Prep time: 3 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes (because it’s a cocktail, not a soufflé)
Total time: 3 minutes
Servings: 1 (unless you’re feeling generous, which you shouldn’t be)
Ingredients
Instructions
- Muddle the sugar and bitters. Drop the sugar cube in a glass, soak it with bitters, add water, and crush it like your enemies. No sugar cube? Use granulated sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Add the whiskey. Pour in your bourbon or rye. If you’re using vodka, we need to have a serious talk.
- Stir like you mean it. 20-30 seconds should do it. You’re blending flavors, not auditioning for a tornado.
- Ice it up. Drop in that single large ice cube. It keeps things cold without diluting your drink into sadness.
- Garnish and serve. Express the orange twist over the glass (fancy talk for “squeeze it to release oils”), then drop it in. Sip slowly—this isn’t a shot.
Nutritional Values
Calories: ~160
Carbs: 4g (thanks, sugar)
Alcohol: 14g (the only macro that matters)
FYI, this isn’t a health drink. If you’re counting calories, maybe skip the second round.
Storage Instructions
You don’t store it. You drink it. But if you must pause, cover the glass with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 hour. Any longer, and the ice melts, turning your masterpiece into bourbon soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using crappy whiskey. This drink is 90% booze. Splurge on the good stuff.
- Over-muddling. You’re not making a smoothie. Gentle crushing is enough.
- Skipping the orange twist. It’s not just decoration—it’s flavor. Don’t be lazy.
- Stirring with ice too long. Over-dilution is the enemy. Keep it under 30 seconds.
Alternatives (For the Rebellious)
- Rye instead of bourbon: Spicier, bolder, and historically accurate.
- Maple syrup instead of sugar: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness.
- Smoked glass: For extra drama, light a cinnamon stick and trap the smoke under the glass before pouring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use simple syrup instead of a sugar cube?
Yes, but you’ll miss the ritual. Use ¼ oz syrup if you’re in a hurry.
Why a large ice cube?
Small cubes melt faster, watering down your drink. Large cubes = slower dilution = happier you.
Can I make it without bitters?
Technically yes, but it’s like pizza without cheese—why bother?
What’s the best whiskey for an Old Fashioned?
Bourbon for sweetness (try Buffalo Trace), rye for spice (Rittenhouse is a winner).
Can I batch-make Old Fashioneds for a party?
Yes, but skip the ice until serving. Mix whiskey, sugar, and bitters in advance, then pour over ice per glass.
Final Thoughts
The Old Fashioned isn’t just a drink—it’s a vibe. It’s the cocktail equivalent of a perfectly tailored suit: timeless, confident, and impossible to mess up if you follow the rules. Whether you’re impressing a date or pretending you’re in a noir film, this recipe delivers.
So grab a glass, channel your inner 1920s gangster, and mix one up. Your taste buds (and your ego) will thank you.
