Halloween is honestly my favorite excuse to try new drinks with a festive twist. There’s something about making classic cocktails feel special for spooky season that just gets me every time.
With a few simple changes, I can turn an ordinary old fashioned into a fun Halloween treat. These creative ideas help me bring some extra spirit to my gatherings.
1) Classic Halloween Old Fashioned
I love making a Classic Halloween Old Fashioned because it’s easy and everyone knows what to expect. This cocktail is rich, smooth, and just the right amount of spooky for your Halloween night.
The orange peel adds a bright color that fits the season.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 orange peel
- 1 large ice cube
- Optional: 1 black cherry for garnish
First, I put the sugar cube in a short glass. Then I dash it with bitters, making sure it soaks in.
I use a spoon to gently muddle the sugar and bitters together until it looks like a thick paste. Next, I pour in my whiskey.
I add a large ice cube to keep the drink cold but not watered down. I gently stir everything together for about 20 seconds to make it smooth.
I take a piece of orange peel, hold it over the glass, and twist it to release the oils. Then, I rub the peel around the rim and drop it in the glass for a strong hit of citrus.
Sometimes I also add a black cherry for a festive touch. For Halloween, I pick an orange or black cherry garnish to match the mood.
You can also add a dash of cinnamon or clove bitters for a fall twist. I like to use black cocktail picks or festive napkins to make the drink look special for Halloween.
This drink takes only a few minutes to make. It is also simple enough to double or triple for a group.
2) Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned
I love how cozy and festive a Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned feels in my hand. The blend of pumpkin, warm spices, and bourbon fits perfectly with Halloween.
To make this drink, I start with these simple ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz pumpkin puree
- 1/4 oz simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 pinch pumpkin pie spice
- Orange peel and cinnamon stick for garnish
First, I add the bourbon, pumpkin puree, simple syrup, bitters, and pumpkin pie spice into a mixing glass. I fill the glass with ice.
Next, I stir everything well for about 20-30 seconds until the mixture is cold. This helps all the flavors blend together.
I strain the drink into a glass filled with a large ice cube. Then, I use an orange peel and a cinnamon stick to garnish the drink.
The cinnamon scent makes it smell even more like fall. This cocktail tastes smooth with a light pumpkin flavor.
It’s not too sweet, and the spices are mild but warming. I enjoy making this for friends, especially when we sit around a fire or carve pumpkins.
If I want a touch more sweetness, I might add a little extra syrup. For a stronger spice flavor, I sometimes sprinkle on a bit more pumpkin pie spice at the end.
It only takes about five minutes to make, so it’s great for last-minute plans or a quick treat at home. The color and garnish make it look festive for any Halloween party.
3) Smoky Maple Old Fashioned
I love making the Smoky Maple Old Fashioned for Halloween because it brings a warm, cozy flavor with a hint of drama. The result is a drink that’s both classic and unique, perfect for a chilly October night.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/4 oz maple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash orange bitters
- Orange peel
- Cherry (for garnish)
- Smoked wood chips (for smoke effect, optional)
- Ice
First, I place a large ice cube in a glass. Then I pour in the bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters.
I stir until everything is well mixed and chilled. The maple syrup brings in a sweet, rich taste that feels right for fall.
Next, I twist an orange peel over the glass to release the oils and drop it in. I add a cherry for a pop of color and extra flavor.
For a smoky touch, I sometimes light a few wood chips, blow them out, and quickly cover the drink with a glass or jar to trap the smoke for about 30 seconds. This step is optional, but it adds a cool effect and a bit of earthiness.
If you like a sweet and smoky cocktail, this one is worth a try. The maple makes it just different enough, while the smoky aroma gives it that festive, mysterious Halloween vibe.
4) Witch’s Brew Old Fashioned
This Witch’s Brew Old Fashioned is one of my favorite Halloween twists on a classic. I love how it adds a little bit of spooky fun to my cocktail hour.
The bright color and smoky aroma always get my friends talking. To make it, I start with 2 ounces bourbon, ½ ounce black currant liqueur (like crème de cassis), and 2 dashes of orange bitters.
I pour these into a glass filled with ice. I use a bar spoon to stir the mix for about 30 seconds until it’s nice and cold.
Then, I add a sugar cube and a splash of water if I want it a bit sweeter. For the garnish, I drop in a few blackberries or add a twist of orange peel.
Sometimes I like to top it off with a little dry ice for a cool, smoky effect (just make sure it’s food safe and don’t drink the dry ice). This cocktail looks amazing with its deep purple color.
It feels festive and special without being complicated. If I’m hosting a party, I make a few in advance and keep them chilled.
I love how the taste of bourbon mixes with the rich fruit from the liqueur. It’s perfect for sipping while watching a scary movie or sharing with friends by the fire.
5) Cinnamon Apple Old Fashioned
I love the way cinnamon and apple come together in this cocktail. It’s cozy, simple, and reminds me of autumn nights.
This twist on a classic old fashioned is perfect for Halloween gatherings. To start, I grab the following ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz apple cider
- 1/4 oz simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash ground cinnamon (or a cinnamon stick)
- Apple slice, for garnish
First, I add the bourbon, apple cider, simple syrup, bitters, and cinnamon to a mixing glass filled with ice. I stir everything well for about 20 seconds, making sure the flavors mix together nicely.
I strain the mixture into a short glass with a big ice cube. I love to garnish with a crisp apple slice and sometimes a cinnamon stick.
It adds a little festive touch and makes the drink smell amazing. This drink has a balance of warm cinnamon spice and sweet apple flavor.
The bourbon adds a strong kick, while the apple cider keeps it light and fresh. I always use a good-quality bourbon for the best taste.
If I want to make it extra special, I’ll rim the glass with ground cinnamon and sugar before pouring in the drink. It looks great and adds more flavor with each sip.
This Cinnamon Apple Old Fashioned is easy to make but feels festive. It’s my go-to when I want a simple, crowd-pleasing fall cocktail.
6) Blood Orange Old Fashioned
This Blood Orange Old Fashioned is my go-to for a Halloween twist on a classic drink. The deep red color makes it look a little spooky, but the taste is bright and fresh.
It’s easy to make and fun to serve. Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz blood orange juice
- 1 sugar cube
- 3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Blood orange slice, for garnish
- Ice cubes
First, I add the sugar cube to a glass. I pour the bitters right on top to help it dissolve.
Then, I muddle it together until the sugar is mixed in. Next, I pour in the blood orange juice and bourbon.
I like to stir these together for a few seconds to blend the flavors. Adding a big ice cube keeps the drink nice and cold without watering it down fast.
For the finishing touch, I garnish my drink with a slice of blood orange. The color pops and makes the cocktail look festive.
If I want it a little sweeter, I add half a teaspoon of simple syrup. But I usually like the natural flavor from the juice and bitters.
I always serve this in a short, sturdy glass. It feels just right for an old fashioned.
This drink stands out at any Halloween party, thanks to its bold color and flavor. It’s quick, simple, and looks great on a table.
7) Black Cherry Old Fashioned
I love the rich flavor of black cherries. For a Halloween twist on the classic old fashioned, I make this drink with black cherry syrup.
The deep color looks great for spooky parties. To make mine, I use these ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz black cherry syrup
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Ice
- Black cherries and orange peel, for garnish
First, I add the black cherry syrup and bitters to a short glass. I stir them together to mix the flavors.
Next, I pour in the bourbon. I gently stir everything with ice until the drink feels cool.
I always garnish with fresh black cherries and a twist of orange peel. The fruit makes the drink look festive for Halloween.
This cocktail has a sweet, fruity taste with a hint of spice. The black cherry flavor stands out, but it doesn’t overpower the bourbon.
If you want a stronger cherry flavor, you can muddle a cherry in the glass before adding the syrup. For extra fun, I sometimes use a black cherry or even a spooky cocktail pick.
This drink is great for sipping at a party. The bold color and taste make it stand out on any table.
8) Spiced Bourbon Old Fashioned
I love making a Spiced Bourbon Old Fashioned for Halloween. The warm spices make it taste like autumn in a glass.
It feels classic but still has a fun twist for the season.
To make this cocktail, I gather my ingredients first. I use 2 ounces of bourbon, 1/2 ounce simple syrup, 2 dashes of Angostura bitters, and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice.
I also grab an orange peel and a cinnamon stick for garnish.
In a glass, I add the simple syrup and bitters. Then I sprinkle in the pumpkin pie spice and stir it well so the flavors mix together.
Next, I pour the bourbon on top.
I add ice, usually a big cube so it melts slowly. I stir the drink for about 20 seconds.
This helps chill it without watering it down too much.
After stirring, I use an orange peel to add some citrus aroma. I twist it over the glass to release the oils, then drop it in.
A cinnamon stick gives it an extra touch of spice and looks festive.
If I want a sweeter drink, sometimes I use maple syrup instead of simple syrup. It makes the cocktail taste even more like fall.
Making a Spiced Bourbon Old Fashioned is easy, and it feels special every time.
I always get compliments on the deep flavors and autumn aroma.
9) Chocolate Hazelnut Old Fashioned
I love a sweet twist on classic cocktails, especially for Halloween. The Chocolate Hazelnut Old Fashioned is rich, smooth, and has a hint of dessert flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz chocolate liqueur
- 1/4 oz hazelnut liqueur (like Frangelico)
- 2 dashes chocolate bitters
- 1 sugar cube
- Orange peel
- Ice
First, I add the sugar cube into my glass and pour the chocolate bitters on top. I use a spoon to crush the sugar cube until it dissolves a bit.
I pour the bourbon, chocolate liqueur, and hazelnut liqueur over the sugar. Then I stir everything together until the sugar is mixed in.
Next, I fill the glass with ice. Stir it again so the drink gets nice and cold.
For garnish, I twist an orange peel over the glass to release the oils. I drop it into the drink.
The chocolate and hazelnut flavors make this cocktail taste cozy and fun for Halloween. The orange peel gives it just the right balance.
I like to serve it in a rocks glass. Sometimes I add a big ice cube to make it look extra special.
If you want, you can rim the glass with cocoa powder for even more chocolate taste.
This drink is quick to make and a perfect treat for a Halloween party.
The flavors remind me of chocolate candy mixed with my favorite bourbon.
10) Clove and Nutmeg Old Fashioned
I love making this Clove and Nutmeg Old Fashioned because it’s cozy and perfect for Halloween gatherings. The spices mix well with bourbon, giving the drink a warm, inviting taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Pinch of ground clove
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- Orange peel twist
- 1-2 whole cloves (for garnish)
- Ice
First, I put a sugar cube in a glass. I add the bitters, clove, and nutmeg on top.
Using a muddler, I crush everything together. This releases the sweet and spicy flavors.
Next, I pour in the bourbon and add ice. I stir the drink for about 20 seconds until it’s cold and mixed well.
Then I twist an orange peel over the top to add a citrus aroma.
For a fun touch, I garnish with a few whole cloves. Sometimes, I even add a cinnamon stick for a little extra spice.
The aroma is always amazing.
The clove and nutmeg make each sip a bit warmer and more flavorful.
Whenever I serve this, people ask for the recipe. It’s not hard, but the spices make it feel unique.
It’s a great pick for Halloween night or any chilly evening.
11) Vanilla Bean Old Fashioned
I love how the Vanilla Bean Old Fashioned brings a sweet twist to the classic drink. It’s perfect for Halloween nights.
The vanilla smells amazing, and it gives the cocktail a smooth, rich flavor.
To make it, I start with 2 ounces bourbon. I add 1/4 ounce simple syrup.
Then, I split a fresh vanilla bean, scrape out the seeds, and drop them in. I also use two dashes of Angostura bitters.
I fill the glass with ice and stir well. The cold drinks mix up the flavors just right.
If I want a stronger vanilla taste, I let the bean soak for a few minutes.
For garnish, I use a piece of orange peel and a small piece of vanilla bean. I twist the orange peel over the drink to release the oils.
Then, I drop it in with the vanilla.
Vanilla and bourbon mix perfectly, creating a cozy and delicious drink.
This recipe is simple but feels special every time I make it. I like serving it in a short glass, so everyone can enjoy the aroma.
If I don’t have fresh vanilla beans, I use a small splash of vanilla extract instead. It’s faster but still gives the cocktail that warm, sweet flavor.
This drink looks great next to other Halloween cocktails. The tiny flecks of vanilla in the drink make it look spooky and unique.
I always get compliments when I serve it at parties.
12) Gingerbread Old Fashioned
I love making a Gingerbread Old Fashioned for Halloween. It’s a fun twist on the classic cocktail, and it brings a cozy, spicy flavor to the table.
The gingerbread taste reminds me of fall and makes the drink feel special.
Here’s what I use:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 0.5 oz gingerbread syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel
- Ice
- Candied ginger (optional, for garnish)
First, I fill a glass with ice to chill it. I pour in the bourbon and gingerbread syrup.
Then, I add the bitters. I like to stir everything for about 20 seconds so the flavors blend.
Next, I take an orange peel and twist it over the glass. This adds a nice citrus smell.
I drop the peel into the drink. Sometimes, I add a piece of candied ginger on top for a little extra sweetness.
This cocktail tastes warm and just a little sweet. The gingerbread syrup is the secret.
If I don’t have any, I mix molasses and a pinch of ground ginger to make a quick syrup. It’s not exactly the same, but it works!
I enjoy serving the Gingerbread Old Fashioned at Halloween parties. The spicy notes remind me of gingerbread cookies.
It’s a drink that feels right for fall.
13) Maple Pecan Old Fashioned
I love making a Maple Pecan Old Fashioned when fall rolls around. It’s smooth and has a cozy, nutty taste that’s perfect for a chilly Halloween night.
This cocktail uses simple ingredients and comes together quickly.
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1/4 tsp pecan extract (or a few drops, to taste)
- Orange peel, for garnish
- Toasted pecans, for garnish
First, I add the bourbon, maple syrup, bitters, and pecan extract to a mixing glass with ice. I stir until it’s nice and cold.
Next, I strain the drink into a glass with a large ice cube. The large cube melts slowly, keeping the drink strong.
I like to finish with an orange peel. I squeeze it over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in.
A toasted pecan on top makes the whole thing look and smell amazing.
This cocktail is sweet, a little nutty, and very smooth.
The maple syrup gives a warm sweetness, and the pecan extract adds a gentle, nutty note.
If you want, you can add a splash of club soda to make it lighter. I sometimes serve it both ways at parties.
For extra flavor, try rimming the glass with crushed toasted pecans. It’s easy and adds a nice crunch with each sip.
I always make sure to use real maple syrup, not pancake syrup. It really makes a difference in the taste.
This drink is quick to mix and feels festive.
If you like bourbon and nuts, you’ll want to save this recipe.
It’s sure to impress guests or just make your night in a little more special!
14) Autumn Cranberry Old Fashioned
I love classic cocktails, but sometimes I want a little twist for the fall. My Autumn Cranberry Old Fashioned is a fun way to enjoy those cozy flavors with a hint of tartness.
It’s perfect for a cool October night.
To make this drink, I’ll need bourbon, cranberry juice, simple syrup, orange bitters, and fresh cranberries.
I usually gather everything before I start mixing.
I start by adding 2 ounces of bourbon to a glass. Then, I pour in 1 ounce of cranberry juice and half an ounce of simple syrup.
Next, I add 2-3 dashes of orange bitters for extra flavor.
I drop in a handful of ice and stir well so everything chills. Sometimes I add a few fresh cranberries and an orange peel for garnish.
If I want, I’ll even muddle a cranberry or two before mixing.
This drink has a nice balance of sweet and tart. The orange bitters and cranberry juice work well with the bourbon.
It’s colorful and feels just right for autumn parties.
If you want it less sweet, use less syrup or more bourbon. For a smoky touch, try a splash of smoked bourbon or a cinnamon stick for stirring.
It’s simple, festive, and always a crowd-pleaser during the Halloween season.
I like how easy it is to make but still feels a little special.
15) Brown Sugar Old Fashioned
There’s something about brown sugar in an Old Fashioned that just feels right—warm, cozy, maybe even a little nostalgic. Halloween gatherings practically beg for this kind of vibe.
The sweetness works so well with bourbon, and honestly, it adds a little magic. I always reach for my favorite rocks glass to start.
I drop in 1 sugar cube or 1 teaspoon of brown sugar. Then, right on top, I shake in 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters.
A quick splash of 1 teaspoon of water comes next. I muddle everything together—sometimes with a spoon, sometimes with whatever’s handy—until the sugar’s totally dissolved.
Time for the good stuff: 2 ounces of bourbon goes in. I toss in a big ice cube and give it a good stir, maybe 20 seconds or so, just until it’s nice and chilled.
For garnish, I twist an orange peel right over the top to get those oils in there. Occasionally, I’ll drop in a cherry because, well, why not? It looks festive and honestly, it’s delicious with the brown sugar.
If you’re in the mood for a change, maple syrup swaps in beautifully for brown sugar—definitely gives it more of a fall feel. I usually serve this with Halloween snacks or desserts, and it just works.
You really don’t need fancy tools or anything wild—just good bourbon, a little brown sugar, bitters, and some citrus. It’s a simple twist, but it makes the Old Fashioned feel right at home at any Halloween party.
