Spiced Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

Whenever I’m craving a drink that feels both cozy and a little special, I go for a Spiced Bourbon Old Fashioned. This classic cocktail blends smooth bourbon with warming spices, which honestly just hits the spot on a chilly fall or winter evening.

It’s a twist on the traditional old fashioned—definitely worth a try if you like bourbon cocktails but want something that feels more seasonal.

What I really like about this recipe is how it uses real spices and just a touch of sweetness, kind of like a maple old fashioned. Whether it’s a small get-together or just a quiet night in, this drink brings a comforting vibe.

If you want a simple way to upgrade your classic old fashioned, this is a good place to start.

Spiced Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

This spiced bourbon old fashioned is all about the balance—warmth from baking spices and the smoothness of bourbon. I keep the ingredients simple and use just a couple tools, so it’s easy to make at home.

Equipment

• Short rocks glass (Old Fashioned glass)
• Cocktail stirring spoon
• Measuring jigger
• Small plate (for prepping citrus peels and spices)
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for straining fresh juice or syrup)
• Peeler (for orange and lemon zest garnish)
• Ice cube tray (large cube preferred)

Having a sturdy, short glass makes a difference—the ice melts slower, which is nice. I always reach for a peeler to get those strips of orange peel; they really wake up the drink’s aroma.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon (pick your favorite for a richer taste)
• 1/2 oz spiced simple syrup
  
  (recipe: simmer equal parts water and sugar with cinnamon, clove, cardamom, fresh ginger, and an orange peel for 10 minutes, then cool and strain)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 dash orange bitters
• 1 small slice of orange
• 1 lemon peel or orange peel (for garnish)
• 1 large ice cube (or several smaller ones)
• Optional: pinch of ground nutmeg or ground clove for extra spice

Homemade spiced syrup just adds so much warmth—cinnamon, clove, cardamom, all the good stuff. I like to use fresh orange or lemon peel for garnish since it releases so much oil.

Sometimes, if I’m feeling it, I’ll add a splash of orange or lemon juice for extra citrus.

Instructions

• Add the spiced simple syrup, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters to your glass.
• Drop in the orange slice.
• Pour in the bourbon.
• Place one large ice cube (or a few smaller ones) in the glass.
• Stir gently for about 30 seconds, just until it’s well chilled.
• Twist the lemon or orange peel over the glass to release the oils, then drop it in.
• Want more spice? Dust a pinch of ground cardamom, clove, or nutmeg on top.
• Serve right away and enjoy.

I like to stir slowly so the flavors come together but the drink doesn’t get watered down. The peel oils really boost the aroma—don’t skip that step.

Notes

I mess around with the spices in my syrup sometimes. Cinnamon, clove, and cardamom are my go-tos, but a pinch of nutmeg or even star anise can be fun.

A big ice cube keeps the drink cold without watering it down too fast. If I’m out of orange bitters, I’ll just use a little more Angostura or even a splash of orange juice.

If you’re after a sweeter drink, just add more spiced syrup. For a bit more tang, splash in fresh lemon juice.

I like making the syrup ahead and keeping it in the fridge—makes mixing up a drink later super quick. If you don’t have bourbon, this actually works with whiskey too.

Tasting Notes

First thing I notice when I sip this Spiced Bourbon Old Fashioned is how the warming bourbon stands out. The aroma—cinnamon and clove—makes it feel like a winter cocktail right away.

It’s smooth, but there’s a little spicy kick too. The bourbon’s richness and the spices just work together, especially on a fall cocktail night.

Over ice, the cocktail stays cool but somehow keeps that cozy feeling. It’s honestly what I reach for when I want something comforting.

Sipping this by the fire or on a chilly evening with friends just feels right. The spices remind me of holiday desserts, but it never gets overly sweet or heavy.

If I need a break from lighter drinks and want something classic, but with a twist, this is my go-to.

Substitute

If I don’t have bourbon on hand, I’ll usually grab rye whiskey instead. Rye has this spicier kick that I find really interesting in a drink.

Some of my favorites for this are Bulleit, Knob Creek, and Wild Turkey. Each brand has its quirks, and honestly, I think they all pair nicely with the spices.

Sometimes I’m in the mood for a fruitier note. When that happens, I’ll toss in a splash of apple cider.

It’s especially lovely in the fall or winter. The cider brings a bit of sweetness but doesn’t overdo it.

If I’m out of bitters or just want to shake things up, I’ll mix in some gingerbread syrup. It gives the Old Fashioned this warm, cozy vibe—perfect for colder nights.

Equipment:

• Jigger
• Mixing glass
• Bar spoon
• Strainer
• Old Fashioned glass

Ingredients:

• 2 oz rye whiskey or bourbon (Knob Creek, Four Roses, Bulleit, Wild Turkey)
• 1 sugar cube or 1 tsp brown sugar
• 2 dashes gingerbread syrup or bitters
• 1 splash apple cider (optional)
• Orange peel (for garnish)
• Ice

Instructions:

• Add sugar and bitters (or gingerbread syrup) to the mixing glass.
• Pour in the whiskey and a splash of apple cider if that’s your thing.
• Stir with ice until it’s nicely blended and chilled.
• Strain into an Old Fashioned glass over some fresh ice.
• Garnish with an orange peel.