Old Fashioned Recipe
- Muddle sugar and bitters: In a rocks glass, place 1 sugar cube (or 1 teaspoon sugar) and add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters. Muddle until the sugar dissolves and combines with the bitters. You can add a splash of water or club soda to help dissolve the sugar.
- Add whiskey: Pour 2 oz (60 ml) of bourbon or rye whiskey into the glass. Stir gently to mix with the muddled sugar and bitters.
- Add ice: Add one large ice cube or a few smaller cubes to the glass, stirring gently to chill and slightly dilute the drink.
- Garnish: Garnish with an orange twist and optionally a maraschino cherry for a classic finish.
Explore Old Fashioned Variations
Old Fashioned Ingredients
- 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon or rye whiskey – Bourbon gives a sweeter, smoother taste, while rye offers a spicier kick.
- 1 sugar cube (or 1 teaspoon sugar) – Provides the sweetness that balances the whiskey.
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters – Adds depth with its blend of spices and herbs.
- Ice – A large ice cube is ideal to chill the drink without diluting it too quickly.
- Orange twist and maraschino cherry – For garnish, adding citrus notes and sweetness.
Old Fashioned FAQ
What is an Old Fashioned made from?
An Old Fashioned is made from whiskey (typically bourbon or rye), sugar, Angostura bitters, and is garnished with an orange peel and/or a cherry.
Should I use bourbon or rye whiskey for an Old Fashioned?
Both are common choices. Bourbon adds a sweeter, smoother flavor, while rye offers a spicier, more robust profile. Choose based on your taste preference.
Can I use simple syrup instead of a sugar cube in an Old Fashioned?
Yes! Many people use simple syrup as it dissolves more easily than a sugar cube. About 1 teaspoon of simple syrup will work, but adjust to taste.
How should an Old Fashioned be served?
An Old Fashioned is traditionally served in a rocks glass (or Old Fashioned glass) over one large ice cube or a few smaller ones. It’s garnished with an orange peel and sometimes a cherry.
What is the history of the Old Fashioned?
The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest cocktails, dating back to the early 19th century. It was named “Old Fashioned” in the late 1800s as people began requesting a return to simpler, classic whiskey cocktails, making it an iconic drink in cocktail history.
