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Old fashioned cocktail with large ice cube and orange peel

Timeless bourbon and bitters cocktail

Old Fashioned

Old Fashioned

5 minEasy

Prep Time

5 min

Cook Time

0 min

Total Time

5 min

Servings

1

1 cocktail

Difficulty

Easy

Cost

Moderate

$$

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Old Fashioned

Timeless bourbon and bitters cocktail

A sophisticated, spirit-forward cocktail that lets quality bourbon shine through a touch of sugar and aromatic bitters. The original cocktail, perfected over two centuries.

5m

Prep Time

0m

Cook Time

5m

Total Time

1

Servings

Easy

Difficulty

Moderate $$

Cost

SnackVeganGluten-FreeDairy-Free
Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen

February 4, 2024(Updated April 13, 2026)

The Old Fashioned is the original cocktail—just spirit, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. Its simplicity demands quality bourbon and proper technique for a perfectly balanced result.

Why This Recipe Works

Dissolving sugar with bitters before adding bourbon ensures even sweetness throughout the drink. A large ice cube melts slowly, chilling the cocktail without diluting it too quickly.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
  • 1 sugar cube or 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 1 large ice cube
  • 1 orange peel
  • 1 cocktail cherry (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Place sugar cube in a rocks glass. Add bitters and a splash of water. Muddle until dissolved.

  2. 2

    Add bourbon and stir gently to combine.

  3. 3

    Place one large ice cube in the glass.

  4. 4

    Express the oil from an orange peel over the drink by squeezing it over the surface.

  5. 5

    Drop the orange peel into the glass and add a cherry if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Ways to Serve This Dish

  • Arrange on a platter for easy sharing at your next gathering

  • Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor

Substitutions

BourbonRye whiskey

More traditional with a spicier, drier flavor

Sugar cubeSimple syrup (1/2 oz)

Easier to dissolve and more consistent sweetness

Tips & Storage

Pro Tips

  • Use a large, clear ice cube that melts slowly for the best experience.

  • Express the orange peel oils by holding it over the drink and pinching—the oils should mist visibly.

Storage

Serve immediately. Not suitable for storage.

Reheating

Not applicable—serve fresh.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (0mg) · 1 servings

Calories160
LowModerateHigh

A light, low-calorie option · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet

Protein0g
Carbohydrates0g
Fat4g
Fiber0mg
Sugar0g
Sodium4g

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bourbon or rye?
Bourbon is sweeter and more approachable. Rye is spicier and more traditional.
Can I batch these for a party?
Yes—combine bourbon, simple syrup, and bitters in a bottle. Pour over ice and garnish to serve.

Explore More

More SnackVegan RecipesGluten-Free RecipesDairy-Free RecipesNo-Cook Recipes
Sarah Chen

About Sarah Chen

Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.

View all recipes →

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