Maple Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time, known for its simplicity and smooth, balanced flavor.

Traditionally made with sugar, bitters, bourbon, and a hint of citrus, it’s a drink that exudes sophistication and timeless appeal.

However, as the seasons change, so can this iconic cocktail – Enter the Maple Old Fashioned, a cozy, fall-inspired twist that replaces sugar with rich, earthy maple syrup.

This small change transforms the cocktail into a warm, smooth, and slightly sweet drink that captures the essence of autumn. Perfect for crisp fall evenings or festive holiday gatherings, the Maple Old Fashioned brings together the flavors of bourbon, maple, and spice in a way that feels both comforting and indulgent!

Whether you’re relaxing by a fire or hosting friends for a seasonal celebration, this cocktail adds a touch of elegance and seasonal warmth to any occasion.

P.S. In a hurry? Click the “Jump to Recipe” button to skip ahead to the recipe.

What Makes an Old Fashion So Special & Why It’s Perfect for Fall

The Maple Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail, offering a rich, autumnal flavor that sets it apart. Unlike the traditional Old Fashioned, which uses sugar or simple syrup, this version incorporates maple syrup as the sweetener.

The maple syrup adds a natural sweetness with deeper, more complex undertones, enhancing the bourbon’s warm, smoky profile. The orange peel garnish brings a bright citrusy touch, rounding out the drink with an additional layer of flavor.

This substitution brings a cozy, fall-inspired element to the drink, making it perfect for cooler months.

What makes the Maple Old Fashioned even more special is how the sweetness of the maple complements the bourbon’s rich caramel and vanilla notes, while the bitters add a subtle spiced balance.

Ideal for sipping by the fire or impressing guests at holiday gatherings, the Maple Old Fashioned is a cocktail that both whiskey aficionados and seasonal drink lovers can enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to craft the perfect Maple Old Fashioned. These simple ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful cocktail:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/2 oz maple syrup
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 orange peel (for garnish)
• 1 large ice cube or several small ice cubes
• Optional garnish: 1 maraschino cherry

Ingredient Breakdown:

Bourbon (2 oz):
The bourbon forms the backbone of the Maple Old Fashioned, providing rich flavors of caramel, vanilla, and oak. For the best results, choose a high-quality bourbon with a smooth finish, as it will balance perfectly with the sweetness of the maple syrup. A bourbon with notes of spice or smokiness works well to complement the cocktail’s autumnal flavors.

Maple Syrup (1/2 oz):
Replacing the traditional sugar or simple syrup, maple syrup gives this cocktail a smooth, natural sweetness with earthy undertones. The maple adds depth and complexity to the drink, making it feel like a warm, comforting fall treat. Opt for pure maple syrup for the best flavor, and adjust the amount to your sweetness preference.

Angostura Bitters (2-3 dashes):
Bitters are an essential component of any Old Fashioned, and Angostura bitters provide the perfect balance to the sweetness of the maple syrup. With hints of cinnamon, clove, and other spices, they enhance the cocktail’s flavor and bring out the bourbon’s complexity. A few dashes are all you need to elevate the drink’s profile.

Orange Peel (for garnish):
The orange peel adds a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor that complements the richness of the bourbon and maple syrup. Twisting the peel over the glass releases the oils, adding a refreshing burst of citrus that cuts through the sweetness and brings balance to the drink. It also provides a visually appealing garnish.

Ice (1 large cube or several small cubes):
Ice is essential for chilling the Maple Old Fashioned and slightly diluting the strong flavors, allowing them to blend harmoniously. A large ice cube is ideal because it melts slowly, keeping the drink cold without watering it down too quickly. If you don’t have large cubes, several smaller ones will do.

Optional garnish: Maraschino Cherry:
For an extra touch of sweetness and a pop of color, you can add a maraschino cherry as a garnish. While it’s not necessary, it enhances the drink’s presentation and adds a subtle fruity note to each sip.

How to Make a Maple Old Fashioned

Follow these simple steps to create a perfectly balanced Maple Old Fashioned:

Prepare your glass:

Start by selecting a short, sturdy glass, such as a rocks glass or an Old Fashioned glass.

These glasses are ideal for cocktails like this because they allow plenty of room for stirring and garnishing, while also providing a classic, stylish look.

Combine the ingredients:

Add 2 oz of bourbon, 1/2 oz of maple syrup, and 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters to your glass.

The bourbon provides the foundation of the cocktail, the maple syrup adds smooth sweetness, and the bitters add complexity and spice. This combination creates a deliciously rich flavor that highlights the best of fall.

Stir to mix:

Use a bar spoon (or any long-handled spoon) to stir the mixture for about 10-15 seconds. This ensures that the maple syrup blends evenly with the bourbon and bitters.

Tip: Be sure to stir well, as maple syrup is thicker than traditional sugar, and you want the flavors to meld smoothly.

Add ice:

Place a large ice cube or several smaller cubes into the glass. The ice will chill the drink, while the slow melting of the large cube prevents it from becoming too diluted.

If using smaller cubes, stir gently to chill the cocktail evenly.

Garnish and serve:

Take an orange peel, twist it over the drink to release the citrus oils, and drop it into the glass. This adds a refreshing aroma and a hint of brightness that balances the richness of the maple and bourbon.

For an optional touch, add a maraschino cherry to bring a little extra sweetness and a pop of color.

Enjoy!

Serve your Maple Old Fashioned immediately and enjoy the cozy, fall-inspired flavors!

Tips & Recipe Variations

The beauty of the Maple Old Fashioned is how easily it can be customized to suit your preferences.

If you like a stronger drink, simply increase the amount of bourbon to 2.5 or 3 oz, or reduce it for a lighter version. To add complexity, try experimenting with different bitters, such as orange bitters for a citrusy twist or cinnamon bitters for a spiced, holiday vibe.

For those who enjoy a bolder flavor, swap the bourbon for rye whiskey, which brings a spicy, peppery edge to the drink.

You can also experiment with different types of maple syrup—darker syrups provide a more robust, earthy flavor, while lighter ones offer a more delicate sweetness.

Maple Old Fashioned Recipe

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