Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
Quick Answer
An Old Fashioned is made with 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey, 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp simple syrup), 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters, and an orange peel. Muddle the sugar with bitters, add whiskey and a large ice cube, stir for 30 seconds, and garnish with an expressed orange peel.
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
The original cocktail — bourbon, sugar, bitters, and orange peel. Simple, strong, and timeless.
About This Recipe
"Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail" is a Drinks recipe that brings bourbon whiskey, cube (or 1/2 tsp simple syrup), Angostura bitters, Orange peel and Maraschino cherry together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Easy and ready in about 5 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 1 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The American inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp simple syrup)
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel
- Maraschino cherry
- Ice
Instructions
- 1
Place sugar cube in a rocks glass. Add bitters and a splash of water.
- 2
Muddle until sugar is dissolved.
- 3
Add bourbon and a large ice cube. Stir gently for 20-30 seconds.
- 4
Express an orange peel over the glass by squeezing it to release oils.
- 5
Drop the peel in and garnish with a cherry.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Bourbon whiskey is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. No equipment work especially well for this preparation. Because the recipe is gluten-free and vegan, it fits easily into balanced eating plans. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail" is a versatile Drinks dish that pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, light pastries, cheese and crackers and classic American sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Keep Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2–3 days. Shake or stir well before serving, as natural ingredients may settle. Serve chilled or over ice.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
What whiskey is best for an Old Fashioned?
Bourbon is the most popular choice — its sweetness complements the sugar and bitters. Rye whiskey makes a spicier, drier drink. Use a mid-range bourbon like Buffalo Trace, Maker's Mark, or Bulleit. Avoid very expensive whiskey — the sugar and bitters mask subtle flavors.
What is the difference between an Old Fashioned and a Manhattan?
An Old Fashioned uses sugar and bitters with whiskey over ice. A Manhattan uses sweet vermouth instead of sugar, served up (no ice) in a coupe glass. The Old Fashioned is spirit-forward; the Manhattan is slightly more complex from the vermouth.
Can you make an Old Fashioned with simple syrup?
Yes — 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) of simple syrup replaces the sugar cube. Simple syrup dissolves instantly, giving a more consistent drink. Many bars prefer it for speed and consistency.
What are Angostura bitters?
Angostura bitters are a concentrated flavoring made from herbs and spices (the exact recipe is secret). They add warm, spicy complexity to cocktails. A bottle lasts months — you only use 2-3 dashes (about 1 ml) per drink. Available at any liquor store.
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