Smoky Maple Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
For a classic drink with a twist, I reach for maple syrup and a smoky bourbon. Every step feels important, from the tools I grab to how I put it all together.
Equipment
- Old Fashioned glass or rocks glass
- Jigger: For precise measuring.
- Mixing glass or shaker
- Bar spoon: for stirring.
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Large ice cube or round ice mold
- Small culinary torch or smoking gun (for smoke effect)
- Peeler or sharp knife for orange zest
- Cocktail pick or toothpick (optional, for garnish)
Ingredients
- 2 oz smoked or high-proof bourbon
- 1/2 oz pure maple syrup preferably grade A
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 orange peel or strip of zest
- 1 large ice cube
Instructions
- Place a large ice cube in the rocks glass.
- Pour bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters into a mixing glass.
- Add ice to the mixing glass and stir for 20-30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over the ice cube.
- Express the orange peel over the drink by holding it over the glass and twisting to release oils.
- Rub the peel around the rim, then drop it into the glass.
- If using, torch a small amount of wood chip or use a smoking gun to add smoke to the glass before or after pouring.
- Garnish with cherry if desired.
Notes
I tweak the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup, depending on my mood. If it’s too strong, I’ll let it sit for a minute so the ice does a bit more work.
Using smoked bourbon or a torch for smoke really changes the aroma and flavor. High-quality ice is a must—it keeps things cold and melts slowly.
Sometimes I’ll toss in a pinch of smoked sea salt for extra smokiness. If I’ve got friends coming over, I prep zest and garnishes ahead so I can throw the cocktail together fast.