Chestnut Bourbon Cocktail Recipe

I’ve always loved making cocktails that really bring out those warm, earthy notes, and honestly, this chestnut bourbon cocktail might be one of my all-time favorites.

It’s got that smooth bourbon vibe, but the chestnut adds this nutty richness that just feels so comforting—almost like you’re sipping something from a cozy, upscale bar, but it’s right in your own kitchen.

When I’m mixing this up, I try to keep the sweetness from the chestnut in check so it doesn’t overpower the boldness of the bourbon.

It’s a great choice for cool nights or just hanging out with a couple of friends.

You don’t need to be a pro bartender or have any rare ingredients—just a few basics and a little attention to detail.

I’ll walk you through how I make it, what tools I use, and the ingredients I reach for every single time.

Plus, I’ll try to give you a sense of what to expect, flavor-wise, before you even take that first sip.

Chestnut Bourbon Cocktail Recipe

What I really like about this drink is how it brings together the warmth of bourbon and the gentle sweetness of chestnut.

It’s perfect for chilly evenings and honestly goes well with almost any snack you’ve got lying around.

Equipment

I keep things pretty straightforward, but having the right tools can really level up the end result.

Here’s what I usually grab:

• Rocks glass for serving
• Mixing glass for combining everything
• Jigger to avoid over-pouring (it happens)
• Strainer for a smooth pour
• Muddler if I’m using fresh roasted chestnuts
• Bar spoon for stirring
• Cocktail shaker if I’m craving a colder, frothier version
• Ice cubes—the bigger the better, so it doesn’t get watered down too quickly

I usually chill the rocks glass first, just to keep things colder for longer.

A sturdy muddler helps a lot if you’re working with actual chestnuts or even a bit of citrus.

Ingredients

I try to use the freshest, best-quality stuff I can get my hands on—it really does make a difference.

• 2 oz bourbon or whatever whiskey you’re into
• 0.5 oz chestnut liqueur or chestnut syrup
• 0.25 oz simple syrup (totally up to you on sweetness)
• 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Ice cubes
• Optional: sparkling water if you want to lighten it up
• Optional: roasted chestnuts for garnish

If I’m out of chestnut liqueur, chestnut syrup does the trick.

The lemon juice is key—it really brightens everything and cuts the sweetness a bit.

Instructions

Here’s how I usually throw it together.

• Fill your mixing glass about halfway with ice cubes.
• Add the bourbon, chestnut liqueur or syrup, simple syrup, lemon juice, and bitters.
• Stir gently with a bar spoon for maybe 20–30 seconds, just until it’s nice and chilled.
• Strain into your chilled rocks glass over fresh ice.
• If you’re feeling fancy, add a splash of sparkling water for a lighter, bubbly texture.
• Garnish with a roasted chestnut or even just a twist of lemon.

I almost never shake this one—I like it clear and silky, and stirring seems to do the trick.

Notes

Chestnut syrup gives a softer, more mellow sweetness, while the liqueur brings a deeper, richer flavor.

Roasted chestnuts as a garnish? Not just for looks—they add a great aroma and, hey, a little snack on the side.

If I’m in the mood for a stronger bourbon kick, I’ll just dial back the syrup a bit.

Or, if I want it more refreshing, I’ll top it off with a splash of sparkling water.

Big ice cubes are the way to go, in my opinion—they melt slower and keep everything cold without watering it down too fast.

Tasting Notes

So, when I take that first sip of the Chestnut Old Fashioned, the bourbon’s smooth warmth hits me right away. There’s this nutty flavor from the chestnut—soft, mellow, and honestly, a lot gentler than the sharper bite you get in a regular Old Fashioned.

The sweetness here is subtle. It doesn’t take over, just sort of balances out the slight bitterness from the bitters and that earthy chestnut thing going on.

Honestly, it makes me want to slow down and just enjoy it.

Now, in the Chestnut Cup Cocktail, the chestnut flavor pops a bit more. It’s rounder, toastier, and kind of lingers after each sip.

I keep thinking how nicely it matches up with those caramel notes in the bourbon.

The drink feels rich, but not at all heavy. There’s this cozy taste from the chestnut, and the bourbon keeps things bold, maybe even a little classic.

Flavor highlights I notice:

• Nutty: roasted chestnut, soft and warm
• Sweet: light caramel, mild honey
• Bitter: gentle from the bitters, not harsh
• Finish: smooth, slightly woody

The aroma? It’s super inviting. I get hints of roasted nuts and a bit of vanilla even before the first sip.

Honestly, it just makes me want to take my time with it.

This is the kind of drink I’d pull out when I want something Old Fashioned-ish, but with a twist—something that feels a little more seasonal, a little more interesting.