When it comes to mixology, I’m always looking for ways to put a new spin on the classics. The Old Fashioned is a timeless drink, but adding warm spices just gives it a whole new life.
A Clove and Nutmeg Old Fashioned brings out these deep, rich flavors that seem made for cozy nights or whenever you want something a little special.
The hint of clove and nutmeg really makes this cocktail stand out from your usual Old Fashioned. Those extra spices just work so well with whiskey, adding warmth and a bit of complexity.
If you’re after a simple but impressive drink to make at home, this recipe is a fun way to experiment without hunting down hard-to-find ingredients.
Clove And Nutmeg Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
This cocktail brings together the deep warmth of bourbon with the comforting spice of clove and nutmeg. It’s honestly perfect for a cozy night or a winter get-together, with flavors that balance sweet and spicy in a really satisfying way.
Equipment
- Cocktail glass: I usually grab a lowball or old fashioned glass.
- Mixing glass: Any sturdy glass or even a small pitcher works for stirring.
- Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon makes mixing easier and less messy.
- Jigger: For me, measuring is key, so I use a jigger for accuracy.
- Fine strainer or sieve: This keeps any stray spice bits out of the final drink.
- Large ice cube molds: Big ice cubes are my go-to—they keep things cold without watering it down too quickly.
- Muddler: If I’m using whole cloves, a muddler helps mash them up gently.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces bourbon (or whiskey, if you prefer)
- 1/4 ounce spiced simple syrup (I simmer sugar, water, cloves, and nutmeg for this)
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- 2 dashes aromatic bitters
- 1 orange peel for garnish
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
- 2 whole cloves (optional for extra flavor or garnish)
- Large ice cube or a few smaller cubes
Instructions
- Pour the bourbon into your mixing glass.
- Add the spiced simple syrup.
- Drop in both types of bitters.
- Sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg.
- Toss in the whole cloves if you’re using them.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice.
- Stir gently for about 30 seconds, just until everything’s nice and cold.
- Strain the drink into your glass over a large ice cube.
- Twist the orange peel over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in.
- If you’re feeling fancy, add a clove on top for aroma.
Notes
Homemade spiced simple syrup lets you control the flavor way better. I simmer water, sugar, whole cloves, and a bit of grated nutmeg for a deeper, richer taste.
The large ice cube is a game changer—it keeps things cold without diluting the drink too fast. Store-bought spiced syrups can work if you’re short on time, but they usually have a different sweetness.
If you’re not a fan of whole cloves floating around, just stick with the syrup and some ground nutmeg. I always twist the orange peel right over the glass, which brings a burst of fresh, citrusy aroma that ties everything together.
Equipment
- Mixing glass or small pitcher
- Muddler (optional, for cloves)
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Ice cube tray (large cube preferred)
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
- ¼ oz spiced simple syrup simmer sugar, water, cloves, nutmeg
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- 2 dashes aromatic bitters like Angostura
- 1 orange peel garnish
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
- 2 whole cloves optional, for aroma or garnish
- 1 large ice cube or 3–4 smaller cubes
Instructions
- In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, spiced simple syrup, orange bitters, aromatic bitters, ground nutmeg, and whole cloves (if using).
- Add ice and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
- Strain the drink into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Express the orange peel over the glass to release its oils, then drop it in.
- Optional: float a clove on top for extra aroma.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Tasting Notes
First sip? It’s smooth and rich. The clove jumps out right away, giving off a gentle spiciness that’s warm but not overwhelming.
The nutmeg brings in a soft, nutty flavor and makes the whole thing feel cozy, with just a touch of earthiness.
The mix of these warming spices really reminds me of fall or winter evenings.
Here’s how I’d sum up the main flavors:
- Clove: spicy, a little sweet, and definitely warming
- Nutmeg: nutty, mellow, and just really comforting
- Whiskey: bold, smooth, and a bit smoky
- Sugar: gently sweetens the whole drink
- Orange: brightens things up with a pop of zest
The spices don’t overpower the whiskey—they just blend in, making each sip feel balanced. I get both sweetness and warmth that make this drink easy to enjoy slowly.
A bit of orange peel at the end brings a fresh note. I get a whiff of orange oil every time I pick up the glass, and honestly, that makes the whole cocktail feel even more inviting.
Substitute
You know, sometimes I just don’t have every single ingredient for an Old Fashioned, but that doesn’t stop me from wanting one. Here are a few easy swaps I’ve come to rely on:
If I’m out of clove or nutmeg:
- I’ll grab allspice, cinnamon, or honestly, just a tiny pinch of ground ginger.
- Steeping a chai tea bag in the whiskey for a few minutes? Surprisingly, it brings a nice spiced vibe.
No orange bitters on hand?
- I’ll reach for Angostura or even lemon bitters.
- If there’s no orange, a twist of lemon or lime keeps things bright enough.
About the whiskey:
- I’ve swapped in bourbon, rye, or even dark rum. Each one changes the drink’s mood a bit, but it’s always pretty good.
Equipment:
- Mixing glass
- Spoon
- Strainer
- Measuring jigger
Ingredients:
- 2 oz whiskey (or whatever you’ve got)
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes bitters (substitute if needed)
- Pinch of substitute spice
- Splash of water
- Ice
- Orange, lemon, or lime peel
Instructions:
