Classic Old Fashioned with Orange Twist Cocktail Recipe

There’s just something about a simple cocktail that still feels a little special, right? The classic Old Fashioned with an orange twist totally hits that spot for me.

It’s one of those drinks I keep coming back to, especially when I want to mix up something at home that doesn’t require a ton of fuss. This Old Fashioned recipe is all about a few good ingredients, but honestly, that orange twist really does add a bright, almost sunny kick.

Mixing up this cocktail doesn’t take much time at all. I always look forward to that balance—sweet, a little bitter, and the citrus just ties it all together.

Looking to impress your friends, or maybe just want something satisfying to sip while you wind down? This is a solid pick.

The Old Fashioned never really goes out of style, does it?

Classic Old Fashioned With Orange Twist Cocktail Recipe

I keep coming back to the Classic Old Fashioned because it’s got that perfect mix of simplicity and bold flavors. And this version, with the orange twist, just feels a bit fancier—without making things complicated.

It’s easy enough for anyone to pull off at home, but it still feels like a treat.

Equipment

• Rocks glass (Old Fashioned glass)
• Mixing spoon or bar spoon
• Jigger (for measuring)
• Large ice cube or ice cubes
• Muddler (optional, for sugar cubes)
• Paring knife or peeler (for the orange twist)

I’m a fan of using a big ice cube. It melts slower, so your drink stays cold and doesn’t get all watery right away.

The rocks glass? Wide enough to really let you catch the orange and whiskey aroma every time you take a sip.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon whiskey or rye whiskey
• 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp simple syrup)
• 1 orange peel (for the twist)
• Large ice cube or several ice cubes
• Optional: 1 drop orange bitters
• Optional garnish: 1 cocktail cherry or orange slice

Bourbon has that sweet, rich flavor, but if you want something a little spicier, rye is the way to go. Sometimes I’ll use simple syrup if I’m feeling lazy or just want a smoother sip.

The orange peel is a must—real zest, real finish.

Instructions

• Add the sugar cube (or simple syrup) to the bottom of your rocks glass.
• Douse it with Angostura bitters (plus orange bitters if you’re using them).
• If you’re using a sugar cube, muddle gently until it’s mostly dissolved.
• Pour in the bourbon or rye.
• Drop in a big ice cube, or just fill the glass up with smaller ones.
• Stir for about 10–20 seconds—enough to chill and mix everything.
• Grab your peeler and cut a strip of orange peel. Twist it right over the drink so the oils hit the surface.
• Toss the orange twist into the glass.
• If you want, add a cherry or a slice of orange on top.

Notes

I almost always reach for bourbon when I make these, but rye does give it a nice spicy kick. Angostura bitters are classic, but a dash of orange bitters can really amp up the citrus notes if you’re into that.

Big ice cube—seriously, it’s worth it. The drink stays cold, and you don’t end up with a watered-down mess.

When I prep the orange, I try to avoid too much of the white pith. It can get bitter, and nobody wants that.

If you’re craving a little more sweetness, drop in a cherry or a splash of simple syrup. Both bourbon and rye work, so maybe just try both and see which one you end up liking more.

If you’re using a sugar cube, muddle until it’s almost gone. That way, everything blends together just right.

And whatever you do, don’t skip twisting the orange peel over the drink—the aroma is honestly half the experience.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of a classic old fashioned with an orange twist, the first thing that hits me is that gentle aroma of citrus.

The orange oil from the twist mingles right away with the rich scent of my favorite whiskey.

Honestly, the taste is simple, but somehow that’s what makes it so good.

I get the bold whiskey up front, then a little sweetness from the sugar sneaks in.

Bitters add just enough spice to keep things interesting—otherwise, the drink might be a bit too sweet for me.

Here’s what really jumps out at me when I’m drinking this old fashioned:

• Whiskey: It’s strong and smooth, with those familiar notes of oak and vanilla.
• Sugar: Sweetens things up, but doesn’t steal the spotlight.
• Bitters: There’s a touch of herbal, spicy flavor—just enough.
• Orange Twist: Brings a fresh, light citrus finish to every sip.

Every time I taste it, I notice how well-balanced it is.

The whiskey’s never hidden, and all the flavors play nicely together.