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Perfect Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

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A simple and authentic Old Fashioned cocktail recipe that balances bourbon, bitters, sugar, and citrus for a classic, timeless drink perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz Bourbon Whiskey (e.g., Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark)
  • 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
  • 1 Sugar Cube (or 1 teaspoon simple syrup as alternative)
  • Orange Peel (for garnish)
  • Ice (large cubes or a single big cube)

Instructions

  1. Drop a large ice cube or a few smaller cubes into your Old Fashioned glass to chill it.
  2. Place the sugar cube in a mixing glass or directly in your Old Fashioned glass. Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters on top.
  3. Using a muddler, press down firmly to dissolve the sugar into a paste.
  4. Pour 2 ounces (60 ml) of bourbon over the sugar and bitters mixture.
  5. Stir gently with a bar spoon for about 20-30 seconds to chill and blend flavors without over-diluting.
  6. Take a fresh orange peel, twist it over the glass to release oils, rub the rim of the glass with the peel, then drop it in as garnish.

Notes

If the sugar isn’t fully dissolving, add a tiny splash of water (about a teaspoon) to help without watering down the cocktail. Use large ice cubes to prevent early dilution. Stir gently instead of shaking to preserve clarity and texture. Fresh orange peel garnish is essential for aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: Old Fashioned, classic cocktail, bourbon, bitters, easy cocktail recipe, beginner cocktail, whiskey cocktail