Fig and Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail
A modern twist on a classic—this Old Fashioned blends bourbon, fig syrup, bitters, and citrus for a drink that’s smooth, gently sweet, and full of fall flavor. Simple, sophisticated, and perfect for sipping slow.
Equipment
- Mixing glass
- Old fashioned glass
- Bar spoon
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Peeler
- Large ice cubes
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey Basil Hayden recommended
- 1/2 oz fig simple syrup or 1 bar spoon fig preserves
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash orange bitters
- fresh fig slice or dried fig, for garnish
- orange peel for garnish
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon optional
- ice cubes or large ice cube
Instructions
- Add bourbon whiskey, fig simple syrup (or fig preserves), Angostura bitters, orange bitters, and ground cinnamon (if using) into a mixing glass.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice cubes.
- Stir well for about 20–30 seconds, until well chilled and slightly diluted.
- Place a large ice cube in an old fashioned glass.
- Strain the cocktail into the glass over the ice cube.
- Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink and drop it in.
- Garnish with a fresh fig slice or dried fig, if available.
Notes
Make fig syrup by simmering equal parts water and sugar with chopped figs (fresh or dried) and straining. High-quality bourbon and clear ice make a difference. Fig preserves yield a thicker drink, while syrup keeps it lighter. Adjust syrup and bitters to taste. Add a splash of lemon juice for tartness if desired.