18 Best Old Fashioned Variations: Unique Recipes and Ideas
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The Old Fashioned cocktail has stood the test of time as a super popular classic, dating all the way back to the early 19th century. The simple yet sophisticated blend of bourbon, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus makes it a go-to for cocktail enthusiasts.
But why stop with the classic version? We have 18 Old Fashioned variations with exciting twists, adding new flavors and flair while maintaining that timeless appeal of the original. Ready to explore some unique recipes and ideas? Let’s dive in!
Old Fashioned basics
The original Old Fashioned is a cornerstone of cocktail history, celebrated for its simplicity and elegance. This traditional recipe includes just a few key ingredients: bourbon or rye whiskey, simple syrup (or a sugar cube), bitters, and an orange twist or cherry for garnish.
Method
- Combine simple syrup and bitters: In an Old Fashioned glass, add your simple syrup and a few dashes of Angostura bitters. If you’re using a sugar cube, place the cube in the glass, douse it with the bitters, add a splash of water if desired, and muddle until dissolved.
- Add the whiskey: Pour the bourbon or rye whiskey over a large ice cube
- Stir and garnish: Stir gently to combine the flavors. Garnish with an orange twist or cherry, and enjoy the smooth, rich taste of a classic Old Fashioned.
Read next: Best Whiskey for an Old Fashioned Cocktail
Exploring Old Fashioned variations
The Old Fashioned is a very versatile cocktail, perfect for experimenting with different ingredients to create exciting new twists. Here are a few types of variations that can add a fresh spin to this classic drink.
Liquor swaps
Switch up the base liquor to create a whole new flavor. Use dark rum for a richer, sweeter drink, or tequila for a bold, agave twist. Brandy adds a smooth, fruity note, while Scotch whisky gives a complex, peaty depth. Each different liquor brings its own character to the party, making for a delightful variation on the classic.
Sweetener variations
Adding sweetness to an Old Fashioned is essential for balancing its bitterness and kick. Instead of simple syrup or a sugar cube, experiment with honey for a floral sweetness, maple syrup for a rich, earthy flavor, or agave syrup for a touch of natural sweetness. Flavored syrups, like cinnamon or vanilla, can also add an extra layer of complexity to your cocktail.
Bitters and other flavor enhancers
When it comes to choosing bitters for an Old Fashioned, there are countless varieties to explore. Swap out Angostura bitters for orange, chocolate, or coffee bitters, or add a few dashes of cardamom or lavender bitters for a fragrant twist. Liqueurs like coffee or amaretto can also enhance the drink with additional depth and aroma.
Go pro: Best Bitters for Old Fashioned
Garnish options
Garnishes are more than just decoration; they add aroma and visual appeal to your cocktail. Think beyond the standard orange twist or cherry—try candied bacon for a savory-sweet element, a smoked orange peel for a hint of charred citrus, or edible flowers for a beautiful, delicate touch.
Also see: Manhattan Drink vs Old Fashioned Cocktail – What is the Difference?
18 Unique Old Fashioned recipes
1. Smoked Old Fashioned
The Smoked Old Fashioned adds a captivating twist by infusing the drink with aromatic smoke, adding a daring layer of complexity to delight the senses.
Learn more: What to Mix with Bourbon (Easy Bourbon Cocktails to Try at Home)
2. Bacon Old Fashioned
Ever heard of fat-washing? If not, check out this guide to see how to pull it off. Fat-washing changes the texture of a drink by infusing it with the flavors and aromas of the chosen fat source. Try an Old Fashioned made with bacon-infused bourbon to experience pure umami bliss.
3. Rum Old Fashioned
The Rum Old Fashioned, made with two types of rum, is a spiffy spinoff of the original. The addition of falernum (a spiced, sweet and tart syrup) adds an irresistible zing and complexity, taking it into a truly trendy cocktail space.
Make it with: Appleton Estate Rum
4. Reposado Old Fashioned
To make a Reposado Old Fashioned, add 2 oz reposado tequila, 0.25 oz simple syrup, and a dash of bitters to a rocks glass over ice. Stir it with a cocktail spoon and express the essential oil of a strip of orange zest over the top before dropping it in the drink. Utter perfection!
Make it with: Espolón Reposado Tequila
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5. Añejo Old Fashioned
If you’re hosting a Mexican-themed evening, we suggest you end it with an elegant Añejo Old Fashioned. Made with aged añejo tequila, agave syrup, and Angostura bitters, it adds a beautiful dash of South American mystery to the standard mix.
Make it with: Espolón Añejo Tequila
6. Mezcal Old Fashioned
This mezcal cocktail, also known as an Oaxacan Old Fashioned was created in 2007 in New York and gave this Mexican spirit a boost in popularity across the US. Make yours with reposado tequila, mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters, and add some flair with a flamed orange peel garnish.
Make it with: Montelobos Mezcal
7. Aperol Old Fashioned
Give your Old Fashioned an Italian upgrade with Aperol. Simply replace the bitters with Aperol to create a bittersweet taste that complements the oak, vanilla, and caramel flavors of bourbon.
Make it with: Aperol
8. Grand Old Fashioned
Give the timeless Old Fashioned a modern and sophisticated twist by adding orange liqueur. The addition of Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge adds an elegant touch and smooth finish, with notes of oranges and nuts. Serve it after dinner or pair it with dessert as a luscious treat.
Make it with: Grand Marnier
9. Ancho Reyes Old Fashioned
This fiery riff is one to try if you love a spicy sipper. Combine 1 oz Ancho Reyes Original, 1 oz Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon, 0.5 oz simple syrup, 2 dashes bitters, and 2 dashes orange bitters in a mixing glass with ice. Stir to chill and strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with an orange twist.
Make it with: Ancho Reyes
10. Banana Old Fashioned
This take on the original recipe is a revelation if you love all things tropical. To make a Banana Old Fashioned, add 2 oz Wild Turkey Bourbon, 0.5 oz banana liqueur, and 6 dashes of bitters to a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well combined, and strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
11. Sesame Old Fashioned
Inspired by Asian flavors, the Sesame Old Fashioned is a beautifully nutty and aromatic variation. To make two, dry toast a handful of sesame seeds in a warm pan, remove, and add it to 4 oz of whiskey. Let it infuse for an hour, then add 2 oz of your infused whiskey, 0.5 oz simple syrup, and 4 dashes of bitters to a rocks glass over ice. Stir, serve, and enjoy this popular Asian alcoholic drink.
Make it with: The Glen Grant Whiskey
12. Chocolate Old Fashioned
This cocoa-inspired riff on the classic is super easy to shake up, and even easier to sip. To make a Chocolate Old Fashioned, add 1.5 oz chocolate liqueur, 3 oz Wild Turkey Bourbon, 1 oz simple syrup, and three dashes of bitters to a mixing glass with ice. Stir to combine, strain into an ice-filled rocks glass, and garnish with an orange twist.
13. Old Fashioned Samurai
This cocktail is popular in Japan and will be a hit among those who enjoy the taste of shochu. Add 1 tsp sugar, 3 dashes of bitters, and a splash of club soda to a rocks glass. Muddle and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Add 2 oz shochu and some ice. Stir the drink for 10 seconds, then twist an orange peel over the drink, drop it in, and serve.
Seasonal variations
Using seasonal ingredients to upgrade your Old Fashioned is another way to make this captivating drink your own. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
14. Peachy Old Fashioned
Peachy keen? So are we! Start by muddling one cubed peach with 0.5 oz of simple syrup in a mixing glass. Add 2 oz of Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon or rye whiskey,2 dashes of bitters, and ice, then stir well. Strain into an ice-filled Old Fashioned glass and finish it off with, an orange twist or slice.
15. Blueberry Old Fashioned
Shimmy into summer with a Blueberry Old Fashioned. Muddle a few fresh blueberries with 0.5 oz blueberry syrup in a rocks glass. Add ice cubes 2 oz bourbon, and 2 dashes of bitters. Gently stir to blend the flavors and garnish with an orange peel twist and a few fresh blueberries.
16. Pomegranate Old Fashioned
Vibrant and packed with flavor, a Pomegranate Old Fashioned is perfect for spectacular sunsets with good friends. In a mixing glass, combine 2 oz Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon or Rye Whiskey, 1.5 oz pomegranate juice, 1.5 oz simple syrup, and 2 dashes of bitters. Fill the mixing glass with ice and gently stir for about 30 seconds to blend the ingredients and chill the cocktail. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice and garnish the drink with an orange peel twist.
17. Apple Butter Old Fashioned
An Apple Butter Old Fashioned is packed with the warm and spicy flavors synonymous with cozy apple pies. Made with real apple butter (just like mama used to make), this fall Old Fashioned drink is perfect for an indulgent Thanksgiving feast with your nearest and dearest.
18. Pumpkin Spice Bourbon Old Fashioned
The Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned is the best bits of fall in a glass. Combine 0.5 oz of homemade pumpkin syrup with 2 dashes of orange bitters and an orange wedge in an Old Fashioned glass, and muddle. Next, add 2 oz of Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon and ice. If desired, add a splash of club soda for effervescence. Stir gently using a cinnamon stick for a truly enchanting Halloween cocktail.
Tips for crafting your own Old Fashioned variations
- Play around with flavors and balance to make a killer Old Fashioned that’s just right for you. Start with the basic recipe, then mix things up by trying different spirits, sweeteners, and bitters.
- Make sure the sweetness matches the bitterness and the strength of the alcohol. Don’t be shy to tweak the amounts until it tastes just right. Think about what you love: if you’re into smoky flavors, go for mezcal or Scotch whisky; if you’ve got a sweet tooth, add honey or maple syrup.
- Use bitters and garnishes that match your favorite scents and tastes.
The best part about the Old Fashioned is its simplicity and versatility, so you can experiment endlessly to create a drink that’s perfect for you.
There you have it – everything you need to know about creating amazing Old Fashioned variations. To get more inspiration like this served up fresh from the presses, sign up for our newsletter, and follow us on Instagram. For more inspiration, visit the Wild Turkey, SKYY, Aperol, Campari, Espolòn, and Appleton Estate websites.
