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.
Equipment
- Ice cube tray (large cube recommended)
- Small plate (for zest prep)
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- ½ oz spiced simple syrup see notes below
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash orange bitters
- 1 small orange slice
- 1 orange or lemon peel for garnish
- 1 large ice cube or a few smaller cubes
- Optional: pinch of ground nutmeg clove, or cardamom
Instructions
- Drop in the orange slice.
- Pour in the bourbon.
- Add a large ice cube.
- Stir gently for 30 seconds until chilled.
- Express the orange or lemon peel over the drink and drop it in.
- Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of ground spice on top for extra warmth.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
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.
