Cinnamon Vanilla Vodka Old Fashioned Cocktail
This cozy spin on the classic Old Fashioned uses vodka, cinnamon syrup, vanilla, and a touch of orange for a warm, sweet, gently spiced cocktail. It’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for fall or winter evenings.
Equipment
- Rocks glass
- Jigger
- Bar spoon
- Muddler
- Cocktail strainer
- Ice cube tray
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka smooth
- 1 oz cinnamon simple syrup
- 1/2 oz vanilla extract or vanilla syrup
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- 1 small orange peel for zest and garnish
- 1 cinnamon stick for garnish and stirring
- 1 tsp brown sugar optional, for extra sweetness
- ice cubes
Instructions
- Drop the brown sugar and cinnamon syrup into your rocks glass.
- Add the orange peel and gently muddle to release oils.
- Pour in the vodka and vanilla syrup or extract.
- Add orange bitters.
- Fill the glass with ice, preferably a big cube.
- Stir with a bar spoon until chilled but not watery.
- Finish with a cinnamon stick and twist of orange peel on top.
Notes
Add extra brown sugar or swap in vanilla syrup for a sweeter drink. Leave the cinnamon stick in for more spice. Vodka keeps things light; swap bourbon for a richer variation. Big ice cubes melt slower. Cinnamon syrup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for two weeks.