Fig Vanilla Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
This twist on a classic cocktail combines the rich flavors of figs and vanilla with bourbon. The result is a smooth and slightly sweet drink perfect for sipping.
Equipment
- Old fashioned glass
- Muddler
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Bar spoon
- Cocktail strainer
- Ice
Ingredients
For one cocktail, gather:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz fig syrup
- 2 dashes vanilla bitters
- 1 fresh fig sliced
- Orange peel for garnish
- Large ice cube or regular ice
The fig syrup can be store-bought or homemade. To make it at home, simmer equal parts sugar and water with fresh figs until syrupy.
Instructions
- Place a slice of fresh fig in the glass and muddle gently.
- Add the bourbon, fig syrup, and vanilla bitters to the glass.
- Fill the glass with ice and stir for 20-30 seconds to chill and mix.
- Strain the mixture into a clean glass over a large ice cube.
- Garnish with an orange peel and the remaining fig slice.
Serve and enjoy responsibly.
Notes
This drink works best with a high-quality bourbon. The sweetness of the fig and vanilla complements the whiskey's oak and caramel notes.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace the bourbon with strong brewed black tea and add a splash of lemon juice for balance.
The fig syrup will keep in the fridge for up to two weeks. Make a larger batch to have on hand for future cocktails.
Experiment with different bitters to create new flavor combinations. Chocolate or walnut bitters can add interesting depth to the drink.