How to Make the Perfect Bourbon Old Fashioned

The Bourbon Old Fashioned is a timeless classic—smooth, bold, and packed with rich flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, this cocktail lets bourbon shine while balancing sweetness and bitterness for the perfect sip.

You can enjoy it to unwind after a long day or impress guests at a gathering. Serve it over a large ice cube, garnish with an orange twist, and enjoy a true masterpiece in a glass!

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Bourbon Old Fashioned Recipe

The Bourbon Old Fashioned is a timeless classic, known for its smooth, rich flavor and elegant simplicity. Made with just a few quality ingredients, this cocktail highlights the deep caramel and vanilla notes of bourbon while balancing sweetness and bitterness. Whether you're unwinding after a long day or entertaining guests, this drink is the perfect choice

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 0 minutes mins

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1 Servings

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Old Fashioned glass (or any short, sturdy glass)
• Bar spoon (or regular spoon)
• Jigger (or small measuring cup)
• Muddler (or back of a spoon)

Ingredients

  

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 sugar cube or ½ tsp simple syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 orange peel for garnish
• 1 large ice cube or several smaller cubes
• 1 Luxardo cherry optional, for garnish

Instructions

 

• Add the sugar

  Drop one sugar cube (or ½ teaspoon of simple syrup) into the Old Fashioned glass
  
• Add bitters and water

  Pour two dashes of Angostura bitters over the sugar cube and add a small splash (about 1 teaspoon) of water to help it dissolve.
  
• Muddle until dissolved

  Use a muddler (or the back of a spoon) to press and rotate until the sugar breaks down completely, forming a thick, slightly grainy paste at the bottom of the glass.
  
• Add Bourbon

  Pour in the bourbon and stir gently to combine.
  
• Add Ice

  Drop in a large ice cube (or a few smaller ones).

  Stir for about 20 seconds to chill the drink.
  
• Garnish & Serve

  Twist an orange peel over the drink to release its aromatic oils, then drop it in.

  Add a Luxardo cherry if desired.

  Enjoy your perfectly crafted Bourbon Old Fashioned!
  

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Notes

• Use a high-quality bourbon for the best flavor—something with caramel and vanilla notes works well.
• If you prefer a smoother drink, use simple syrup instead of a sugar cube.
• Stir, don’t shake! Shaking dilutes the drink too much.
• A large ice cube melts slower, keeping your drink cold without watering it down.

Keyword American, Bourbon, Cocktail, Easy Recipes

Pick the Right Bourbon

Go for a bourbon with rich caramel and vanilla notes. A smooth, well-balanced bottle makes the best Old Fashioned. Stay away from the bottom shelf—this drink highlights the spirit.

• Easy-drinking: Maker’s Mark, Buffalo Trace
• Spicy kick: Bulleit, Woodford Reserve
• Top-shelf treat: Blanton’s, Elijah Craig Small Batch

Use the Best Sweetener

A sugar cube gives tradition and texture, but it takes time to dissolve. Simple syrup blends smoothly and keeps things consistent. If you want to experiment, try demerara syrup for a richer taste.

Get the Ice Right

A large ice cube melts slower, keeping your drink cold without watering it down. Small cubes melt too fast and ruin the balance. If you don’t have a mold for big cubes, use a single large chunk of ice instead.

Choose the Right Bitters

Angostura is the classic choice, but you don’t have to stop there. Orange bitters add a citrusy pop, while chocolate bitters bring out deeper caramel notes in the bourbon. Try a mix of both for extra complexity.

Perfect the Garnish

An orange peel adds aroma, not just decoration. Hold it over the glass, give it a twist, and rub it around the rim before dropping it in. If you like a cherry, use a Luxardo, not the neon red ones from a sundae bar.

Want to take your Old Fashioned to the next level? Try smoking the glass with a torch and a wood chip before pouring your drink. It adds a deep, smoky note that makes each sip even better.