Maple Cinnamon Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

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A Maple Cinnamon Old Fashioned is such an easy way to bring those warm, cozy flavors into a classic cocktail. This recipe mixes rich maple syrup and a touch of cinnamon with bourbon for a drink that’s smooth, balanced, and perfect for relaxing after a long day.

The touch of spice from the cinnamon gives it a unique twist without making things complicated. I like how this cocktail is simple to put together, but still feels special.

If you want a drink that’s not too sweet but has a hint of fall flavor, this is a good choice. The Maple Cinnamon Old Fashioned is a nice way to enjoy something a little different without much effort.

Maple Cinnamon Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

Maple Cinnamon Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
This drink blends the rich flavor of maple syrup with the warm spice of cinnamon for a twist on the classic Old Fashioned. I focus on simple steps, fresh ingredients, and the right tools to help you make this cocktail at home.
John
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Serving Size 1

Equipment

  • Mixing glass: I use a sturdy glass with enough room to stir the drink.
  • Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon helps me mix everything evenly.
  • Jigger: Measuring the ingredients is important, so I rely on a jigger for accuracy.
  • Muddler: Using a muddler, I press and release the flavors from any garnish or spice.
  • Strainer: A Hawthorne strainer fits snugly on my mixing glass for easy pouring.
  • Rocks glass: This cocktail is served in a short, wide glass—sometimes called an Old Fashioned glass.
  • Peeler or zester: I use this to prepare citrus garnishes.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz 60 ml bourbon
  • 0.5 oz 15 ml pure maple syrup
  • 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 1 small cinnamon stick plus extra for garnish
  • 1 orange peel
  • Ice cubes or a large ice cube
  • Optional: a splash of water to mellow the drink

Instructions

  • Add the cinnamon stick to the mixing glass and gently muddle to release flavor.
  • Pour in bourbon, maple syrup, and Angostura bitters.
  • Optional: Add a splash of water if you prefer a lighter drink.
  • Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds until well chilled.
  • Use a strainer to pour the mixture into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
  • Express an orange peel over the drink by gently twisting it above the glass, then drop it in as garnish.
  • Garnish with an extra cinnamon stick if desired.

Notes

I recommend using a bourbon that is not too sweet, as the maple syrup already gives the cocktail enough sweetness. If the drink tastes too strong, a few drops of water can make it smoother.
For a spicier flavor, I sometimes let the cinnamon stick sit in the glass a minute longer before serving. To change things up, rye whiskey can be used instead of bourbon for a different style.
Fresh, real maple syrup creates a richer depth of flavor compared to pancake syrup or imitation varieties. I avoid using powdered cinnamon because it does not dissolve well and changes the drink’s texture.
Adjust maple syrup and bitters to taste until I find my preferred balance. The garnish adds aroma and visual appeal, enhancing the cocktail experience.

Must Have Ingredients

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of the Maple Cinnamon Old Fashioned, the first thing I notice is the balance between sweetness and spice. The maple syrup gives a smooth and gentle sweetness, which is rounded out by the cinnamon’s warmth.

The bourbon base brings notes of caramel and oak. This matches well with the maple and cinnamon, giving the cocktail a comforting flavor.

As I continue to taste, I pick up hints of orange and a soft, woody aroma from the bitters and cinnamon stick. The texture is rich but not heavy.

Flavors develop as the ice melts, making each sip a bit more mellow. I find this cocktail inviting and easy to drink, especially on cool evenings.

The finish leaves a mild sweetness on my tongue, with just enough cinnamon to give it an interesting twist.

Substitute

Sometimes I just don’t have all the ingredients on hand. Here are a few easy swaps I’ve found that actually work out pretty well in this cocktail.

Ingredients:

  • If I run out of maple syrup, I’ll grab honey or just use simple syrup in the same amount.
  • Cinnamon stick isn’t always sitting in my pantry, so I’ll toss in a bit of ground cinnamon instead.
  • For whiskey, bourbon or rye both do the trick. Bourbon gives a milder vibe, but if I’m after a spicier kick, I lean toward rye.

Instructions:

  • When I use honey instead of maple syrup, I notice it takes a bit more stirring to get it to dissolve.
  • If I’m using ground cinnamon, just a pinch is enough, and I make sure to mix it in well.
  • Sometimes I don’t have orange bitters, so I’ll just use regular aromatic bitters. Not a big deal, honestly.

Equipment:

  • No muddler? I just use the back of a spoon to press whatever needs pressing.
  • And if I can’t find my Old Fashioned glass, any simple glass honestly works fine.

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Hey there, I’m John Watson—a guy who’s spent over 20 years proving that a good drink can fix just about anything (well, almost anything). Whether it’s cocktails that wow or mocktails that mock boredom, I’m all about crafting sips with stories. Founder of ThirstyTales and full-time drink nerd, I’m here to help you shake things up, one glass at a time. Let’s mix, laugh, and maybe spill a little—cheers to the adventure!

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