Autumn Old Fashioned Cocktail
A cozy fall twist on the classic Old Fashioned: bourbon (or rye) stirred with maple syrup and aromatic bitters, optional apple cider or a splash of mezcal, finished with fragrant orange peel.
Equipment
- Old fashioned glass
- Mixing glass
- Bar spoon
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Peeler or knife
- Ice cubes
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 0.25 oz maple syrup or fall spiced simple syrup
- 2 dashes aromatic bitters
- 0.5 oz apple cider optional
- mezcal small splash, optional
- orange peel for garnish
- brown sugar optional, for rim or extra sweetness
Instructions
- Add bourbon (or rye), maple syrup, and bitters to a mixing glass.
- Optional: add apple cider or a small splash of mezcal.
- Fill with ice and stir for about 20 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into an old fashioned glass over one large cube or fresh ice.
- Express the orange peel over the drink, rub around the rim, and drop it in.
Notes
Adjust sweetness by dialing the maple syrup up or down, or swap in simple syrup for a lighter profile. A drop of walnut liqueur or amaro adds depth. Serve immediately to keep dilution in check and the flavors balanced.