There’s nothing quite like sipping on a perfectly balanced Old Fashioned.
This version uses pure maple syrup instead of sugar, giving it a smooth richness that pairs beautifully with bourbon and bitters.
Simple, elegant, and timeless — it’s the kind of cocktail that feels right for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a classic Old Fashioned with a maple twist for natural sweetness.
Uses just a few ingredients but feels sophisticated and polished.
Easy enough for beginners, yet refined enough for cocktail enthusiasts.
Perfect to enjoy year-round, whether cozying up in winter or relaxing on a summer evening.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Bourbon adds depth, warmth, and a strong backbone to the drink.
Pure maple syrup replaces sugar for smooth sweetness and a hint of richness.
Angostura bitters bring spice, balance, and complexity.
Orange peel brightens with citrusy oils that cut through the richness.
Optional brandied cherry adds a touch of luxury.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Chill your glass before building for a more professional finish.
Use large ice cubes to prevent quick dilution.
Always stir gently — don’t shake — to keep the texture silky.
Express the orange peel oils; it elevates the aroma and flavor.
How to Make Old Fashioned Cocktail with Maple Syrup
Step 1 – Chill the glass
Place a rocks glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or fill with ice to chill while you prep.
Step 2 – Mix maple syrup and bitters
Add maple syrup and bitters to a mixing glass or directly into the serving glass.
Stir gently to blend.
Step 3 – Add bourbon
Measure and pour bourbon into the glass with maple and bitters.
Step 4 – Stir to chill
Fill with ice and stir steadily for 20–30 seconds until chilled and lightly diluted.
Step 5 – Strain or build
If using a mixing glass, strain into the chilled rocks glass over one large ice cube.
If built in-glass, just add ice and stir lightly.
Step 6 – Garnish
Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink, rub the peel along the rim, and drop it in.
Add a brandied cherry if desired.
Step 7 – Adjust and enjoy
Taste and tweak — add a dash more bitters if too sweet, or a splash more maple if too strong.
Sip slowly and savor.
What to Serve It With
Pair with salty snacks like roasted nuts or olives.
Enjoy alongside charcuterie, cheeses, or smoked meats.
Serve with dark chocolate for a rich pairing.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap bourbon for rye whiskey for a spicier profile.
Try honey or simple syrup instead of maple for sweetness.
Use different bitters (orange, chocolate, walnut) to change the flavor.
Add a splash of soda water for a lighter, highball-style drink.
Storage & Leftovers
Best enjoyed freshly made — cocktails don’t store well once mixed.
If batching for a party, mix bourbon, maple, and bitters in advance, then stir with ice and garnish just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use rye whiskey instead of bourbon?
Yes, rye gives a spicier, drier flavor compared to bourbon’s sweetness.
Is maple syrup better than sugar for this cocktail?
It depends on preference — maple adds smooth, rich sweetness with more depth.
Can I make this drink without bitters?
Bitters are key to balance, but you can reduce the amount if you prefer a milder flavor.
What’s the best ice to use?
Large cubes or spheres melt slower, keeping the drink from diluting too fast.
Do I have to use a mixing glass?
No, you can build directly in the serving glass for convenience.
What’s the purpose of the orange peel?
It adds bright citrus oils that balance the richness of maple and bourbon.
Can I batch this cocktail for a party?
Yes, combine bourbon, maple, and bitters ahead of time; stir with ice and garnish when serving.
Is this drink very strong?
Yes, it’s spirit-forward, but you can adjust sweetness or dilution to taste.
Can I add soda water to lighten it?
Yes, a splash of club soda turns it into a refreshing variation.
What’s a good food pairing?
It pairs beautifully with charcuterie, cheese, chocolate, or grilled meats.
Final Thoughts
This Old Fashioned with maple syrup is smooth, balanced, and timeless.
With just a few quality ingredients, you can make a cocktail that feels classic yet unique — the kind of drink that never goes out of style.
