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Maple Old Fashioned

This maple old fashioned transforms a classic cocktail into something warmer and more inviting by swapping simple syrup for pure maple syrup, adding subtle sweetness and autumn comfort. It's sophisticated, balanced, and ready in just two minutes.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: American
Calories: 160
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey
  • 1/2 ounce pure maple syrup
  • 2 to 3 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 1 dash orange bitters optional but recommended
  • Ice cubes preferably large for slower melting
  • Orange peel for garnish
  • 1 maraschino cherry or cocktail cherry optional

Equipment

  • Mixing glass or sturdy drinking glass
  • Bar spoon or long-handled spoon
  • Jigger or shot glass for measuring
  • Rocks glass or old fashioned glass
  • Channel knife or vegetable peeler for citrus peel
  • Cocktail stirrer or long spoon

Method
 

  1. Place your rocks glass in the freezer for at least two minutes while you gather your other ingredients.
  2. Pour 1/2 ounce of pure maple syrup into your mixing glass.
  3. Add 2 to 3 dashes of Angostura bitters and 1 dash of orange bitters to the maple syrup.
  4. Using your bar spoon, stir the maple syrup and bitters together for about 10 seconds until they're well combined and starting to create a light paste.
  5. Pour 2 ounces of bourbon or rye whiskey into the mixing glass with your maple and bitters.
  6. Add several large ice cubes to your mixing glass, filling it about three-quarters full.
  7. Stir continuously for 15 to 20 seconds, making sure your bar spoon contacts the ice frequently.
  8. Remove your chilled rocks glass from the freezer and add one large ice cube or several smaller ones.
  9. Strain your stirred mixture from the mixing glass into your prepared rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
  10. Take an orange peel, twist it over the drink to release its aromatic oils directly onto the surface, then drop it into the glass as a garnish.
  11. If desired, add one quality maraschino cherry or cocktail cherry to your glass for a touch of color.

Notes

Use large ice cubes or a single cube if possible, as they melt slowly and keep your drink from becoming diluted. Invest in pure maple syrup rather than pancake syrup for the best flavor. Don't rush the stirring step - those 15 to 20 seconds properly chill everything and add just enough water to create the right balance. Make your drink right before serving for peak chill and optimal flavor.