Pear and Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

I’m always on the lookout for new spins on old favorites, and the Pear and Bourbon Old Fashioned has a way of sneaking into my regular rotation. There’s just something about the smooth bourbon and juicy pear combo that hits differently—especially when you want to impress someone or just treat yourself.

It’s not a fussy drink, either. No need to be a pro bartender here. Most of the stuff you’ll need is probably lurking in your kitchen already, which is honestly a relief.

Pear and Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

Honestly, the way fresh pear and bourbon play together is a little surprising in the best way. You get this mellow warmth, a touch of sweet fruit, and just enough tartness to keep things interesting.

You don’t need to overthink it, but having the right tools can make the process smoother.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker: I like using this to chill everything down fast.
• Jigger: Makes it easier to avoid over-pouring (which, depending on your mood, could be good or bad).
• Muddler: For smashing the pear and letting the flavors out.
• Mixing glass: Works fine if you want to stir instead of shake.
• Strainer: Keeps out the chunky bits—unless you’re into surprises.
• Old Fashioned glass: The classic, short glass just fits this drink.
• Bar spoon: Handy for stirring, though a regular spoon works in a pinch.
• Knife and cutting board: For slicing up the pear and lemon.
• Ice cube tray: Bigger cubes are better if you can swing it.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (I lean toward something smooth but not too pricey)
• 1 oz pear simple syrup (homemade if I’m feeling ambitious)
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1/4 of a ripe pear (for muddling)
• Ice cubes (the larger, the better)
• Pear slice or lemon twist (for garnish)

Pear Simple Syrup

Just simmer equal parts sugar, water, and chopped pear until the fruit softens. Strain it and let it cool before using.

Instructions

• Toss the pear chunk and simple syrup into your shaker.
• Muddle until the pear’s mostly mashed and juicy.
• Add bourbon, lemon juice, and bitters.
• Fill with ice, shake for 10-15 seconds.
• Strain into an Old Fashioned glass over fresh ice.
• Top with a pear slice or a twist of lemon.

Sometimes I skip the shaker and just stir everything in a mixing glass if I’m after a silkier texture. If I’m making drinks for a group, I’ll chill the glasses ahead of time—makes a difference.

Notes

Fresh pear is ideal, but canned works if that’s what you’ve got. I’m partial to big ice cubes since they melt slow and keep the drink from getting diluted.

If you want a bit more sweetness, just add another splash of simple syrup. For extra coziness, try simmering a cinnamon stick in your pear syrup—it’s a subtle touch, but so good.

If your pear’s super ripe, you’ll barely need to muddle. Sometimes I double-strain to get rid of all the pulp, but that’s totally optional. Taste as you go—finding that sweet spot between fruit, tart, and bourbon is part of the fun.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of the Pear and Bourbon Old Fashioned, it’s got this smooth, mellow feel right away. The bourbon brings a rich, warm flavor that lingers on my tongue.

It isn’t too sharp, which I appreciate. The fresh pear adds a gentle sweetness and a touch of fruitiness.

I love how the pear balances out the strength of the bourbon. There’s a little hint of spice from the bitters, and honestly, that keeps things interesting.

The drink isn’t overly sweet, and the finish is nice and smooth. Ice cools it down and, somehow, opens up the flavors a bit more.

Sometimes, as the ice melts, I get a little extra pear coming through. It’s a cozy cocktail, honestly—perfect for sipping slow.

The pear and bourbon just click, each flavor getting its own moment without stepping on each other’s toes.