Cranberry Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

When I want a twist on the classic bourbon cocktail, I go for a Cranberry Old Fashioned. It’s a simple drink—cranberry syrup and fresh cranberries add a bright, tart flavor.

Making a cranberry bourbon cocktail at home is easy and honestly makes any night feel a little more special.

I love how the cranberry brings just the right touch of fruitiness and a pop of color to the old fashioned. If you’re after a cocktail that’s festive but not fussy, you’re in the right spot.

Let me show you how I throw it together.

Equipment:

• Old fashioned glass
• Muddler or spoon
• Jigger
• Spoon for stirring

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/2 oz cranberry syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel (for garnish)
• Fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

• Add cranberry syrup and bitters to your glass.
• Drop in the orange peel and muddle gently if you want extra orange flavor.
• Pour in the bourbon and toss in some ice cubes.
• Stir gently for about 20 seconds.
• Garnish with orange peel and a few cranberries if you’re feeling fancy.

Cranberry Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

I like making a Cranberry Old Fashioned because the tart kick and hint of sweetness really wake up the classic drink.

Using cranberry simple syrup, bourbon, and the right garnishes, I get a fresh twist on a traditional favorite.

Equipment

• Rocks glass
• Jigger for measuring
• Bar spoon or regular spoon
• Cocktail strainer (if mixing in a separate glass)
• Muddler (optional, for cranberries or orange)
• Small knife or peeler (for that orange twist)

I always start with clean tools—nobody wants weird flavors sneaking in. A sturdy rocks glass helps keep the ice from melting too fast.

I usually grab a bar spoon for mixing, but honestly, any spoon will do in a pinch.

If I’m feeling extra, I’ll use a strainer and muddler for the cranberries.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 0.5 oz cranberry simple syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 dash orange bitters
• Ice (big cubes are best)
• Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
• Orange twist (for garnish)

Sometimes I make the cranberry simple syrup at home—just equal parts sugar, water, and fresh cranberries simmered together.

For the bourbon, I pick a brand I actually like sipping straight. The bitters give it depth, and a hit of orange on top makes the drink smell amazing.

Instructions

• Add cranberry simple syrup, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters to your rocks glass.
• Pour in the bourbon.
• Add a big ice cube or a few smaller ones.
• Stir gently with the bar spoon for 15-20 seconds.
• Garnish with a few cranberries and a twist of orange.

I always stir instead of shake—keeps the drink clear and smooth. Large ice cubes are clutch; they slow down the dilution.

A good orange twist and a few cranberries on top make it look like you tried (even if you didn’t).

Notes

Sometimes I’ll swap in rye whiskey for bourbon if I want a little more spice.

If I’m craving something sweeter, I’ll toss in an extra splash of cranberry syrup. The homemade syrup keeps in the fridge for about two weeks, which is pretty convenient.

No orange bitters? I just use a bigger orange twist and call it good. If I’m using store-bought cranberry syrup, I taste it first—some are sweeter or more tart than others.

Fresh cranberries are just for looks, really. I don’t eat them; they’re way too tart on their own.

Tasting Notes

When I sip my Cranberry Old Fashioned, the first thing that hits me is that balance—tart cranberry up front, warm bourbon right behind it.

The cranberry brings a gentle tartness, enough to stand out but not so much that it takes over.

Bourbon comes through smooth and just a touch sweet.

That hint of orange, whether from the garnish or bitters, gives a fresh twist I honestly didn’t expect.

It’s definitely more vibrant than a traditional old fashioned.

Yet, the classic, oaky richness is still there, which I appreciate.

Honestly, it’s a great holiday cocktail.

The cranberry gives it that signature, seasonal flair—the bright red color just looks so good in the glass.

Whenever I make this one for friends, most people say it tastes like a twist on an old favorite.

It’s familiar, but there’s something new in every sip, and I love sharing that.