Description
The Maple Old Fashioned is a cozy twist on the classic cocktail, combining the smooth warmth of bourbon with the rich sweetness of pure maple syrup and aromatic bitters. Enhanced with a fragrant orange peel and optional cinnamon stick garnish, this drink is perfect for a comforting evening or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cocktail
- 2 ounces bourbon
- 2 dashes bitters
- 1 tablespoon (½ ounce) pure maple syrup
- Crushed ice (plus ice cubes for serving)
Garnish
- Orange peel
- Cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add 2 ounces of bourbon, 2 dashes of bitters, and 1 tablespoon (½ ounce) of pure maple syrup along with some crushed ice.
- Shake to Chill and Blend: Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until it is fully blended and chilled.
- Prepare Glass: Place a large ice cube into a rocks or low-ball glass to keep the drink cold without diluting it too quickly.
- Strain Cocktail: Strain the shaken mixture over the ice cube in the glass to ensure a smooth, refined texture free of ice shards.
- Add Aromatic Garnish: Twist an orange peel over the drink to release the essential oils which add fragrant citrus notes, then drop the peel into the glass.
- Optional Garnish: Add a cinnamon stick into the glass to impart a subtle warming spice aroma, enhancing the maple flavor.
- Serve: Present the drink immediately and enjoy the cozy, sophisticated flavor of this Maple Old Fashioned.
Notes
- Use good quality bourbon for the best flavor balance.
- Pure maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and depth compared to simple syrup.
- Shake with crushed ice to properly chill and slightly dilute the drink for smoothness.
- The orange peel brightens the cocktail with citrus aroma without adding acidity.
- The cinnamon stick is optional but adds a warming spice note ideal for colder months.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Maple Old Fashioned, cocktail, bourbon, maple syrup, bitters, classic drink, autumn cocktail
