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Gingerbread Old Fashioned

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated:

Categories Cocktails, Recipes

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As the winter season rolls in, there’s no better way to warm up than with a cozy cocktail that embodies the spirit of the holidays.

The Gingerbread Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the classic bourbon cocktail, infusing it with the rich, spiced flavors of gingerbread. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or relaxing by the fireplace, this drink is guaranteed to bring festive cheer to your glass.

With a blend of smooth bourbon, spiced gingerbread syrup, and aromatic bitters, the Gingerbread Old Fashioned offers a sophisticated take on holiday flavors.

Why You’ll Love the Gingerbread Old Fashioned

The Gingerbread Old Fashioned is more than just a seasonal cocktail—it’s a sensory experience.

Here’s why it’s a must-try this winter:

  • Warm and Spiced Flavors: The gingerbread syrup adds a cozy, festive flavor profile with hints of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Balanced Sweetness: The syrup pairs perfectly with the robust notes of bourbon, creating a drink that’s sweet but not cloying.
  • Customizable Options: This cocktail allows for variations, whether you prefer rye whiskey, a touch of smoke, or additional spices.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: It’s equally suited for holiday gatherings or a quiet evening by the fire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this festive cocktail:

  • 2 oz bourbon (or rye whiskey for a spicier kick)
  • 1/2 oz gingerbread syrup (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2-3 dashes aromatic bitters (such as Angostura)
  • Orange peel (for garnish)
  • Cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)
  • Ice (preferably a large ice cube)

How to Make A Gingerbread Old Fashioned

1. Prepare the Glass

Start by placing a large ice cube into an old-fashioned glass. Large cubes melt more slowly, ensuring your drink stays cold without becoming diluted. If you don’t have a large ice cube mold, regular ice cubes work just as well.

2. Mix the Cocktail

Add the bourbon, gingerbread syrup, and aromatic bitters directly into the glass. Stir gently with a bar spoon for 20-30 seconds to combine the flavors and chill the drink.

3. Garnish and Serve

Take an orange peel and express its oils over the drink by holding it over the glass and giving it a gentle twist. Drop the peel into the glass as a garnish. For an extra festive touch, add a cinnamon stick, which can also double as a stirrer. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Tips for Personalizing Your Gingerbread Old Fashioned

One of the great things about this cocktail is its versatility. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Adjust the Sweetness

If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the gingerbread syrup to 1/4 ounce or balance it with a splash of simple syrup. For a sweeter profile, add a bit more gingerbread syrup.

Experiment with Spirits

While bourbon is the traditional choice, rye whiskey brings a spicier edge that complements the gingerbread flavors. Alternatively, dark rum adds a rich molasses undertone, making for a unique variation.

Add a Smoky Element

For a more complex flavor, incorporate a smoky whisky like an Islay Scotch or use a smoked bourbon. Even a few drops of liquid smoke can elevate the drink’s profile.

Enhance the Spices

Amp up the holiday vibes with additional spice elements. Cinnamon bitters or clove-infused bitters are great options, and a garnish of crystallized ginger adds both flavor and visual appeal.

How to Make Homemade Gingerbread Syrup

If you want to elevate your Gingerbread Old Fashioned, homemade gingerbread syrup is the way to go. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp molasses
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground allspice
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the water, brown sugar, and molasses. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Add the spices and continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
  3. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve if needed.
  4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

This syrup isn’t just for cocktails—it’s also a delicious addition to coffee, tea, or desserts.

Serving Suggestions

The Gingerbread Old Fashioned is a showstopper at holiday gatherings. Serve it alongside a dessert spread of gingerbread cookies, pecan pie, or spiced nuts for a truly festive pairing.

If you’re hosting, consider setting up a cocktail station with all the ingredients and letting guests build their own Gingerbread Old Fashioned for an interactive experience.

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Gingerbread Old Fashioned Recipe

Gingerbread Old Fashioned

The Gingerbread Old Fashioned is a festive twist on the classic cocktail, combining bourbon with the warm, spiced flavors of gingerbread. This sophisticated drink is perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night by the fire.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Drinks
Servings 1
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
  • 1/2 oz gingerbread syrup store-bought or homemade
  • 2-3 dashes aromatic bitters such as Angostura
  • Orange peel for garnish
  • Cinnamon stick optional, for garnish
  • Ice preferably a large ice cube

Homemade Gingerbread Syrup

  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp molasses
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground allspice
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

  • Place a large ice cube into an old-fashioned glass. If you don’t have a large cube, fill the glass with regular ice cubes.
  • Pour 2 oz bourbon, 1/2 oz gingerbread syrup, and 2-3 dashes of aromatic bitters into the glass.
  • Use a bar spoon to gently stir the ingredients for about 20-30 seconds, ensuring they are well combined and chilled.
  • Take a piece of orange peel and hold it over the glass. Gently twist the peel to release its oils, then drop it into the drink. For a festive touch, add a cinnamon stick, which can also serve as a stirrer.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, spiced flavors of this holiday-inspired cocktail.

How to Make Gingerbread Syrup

  • Combine water, brown sugar, and molasses in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  • Add ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and a pinch of salt.
  • Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Remove from heat and let cool.
  • Strain if necessary and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
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