The classic old-fashioned is a timeless cocktail that has been enjoyed for generations. Its simplicity and elegance make it a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts. This drink combines the rich flavors of bourbon or rye whiskey with the sweetness of a sugar cube and the aromatic complexity of angostura bitters. A twist of orange peel and lemon peel adds a refreshing citrus note, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
While most of the ingredients for this classic old-fashioned are common, you might need to pay special attention to angostura bitters. This ingredient is a key component that adds depth and complexity to the cocktail. It can usually be found in the cocktail mixers section of your supermarket. Make sure to also pick up fresh orange and lemon for the peels, as these will enhance the drink's aroma and flavor.

Ingredients For Classic Old-Fashioned Recipe
Bourbon: A type of American whiskey that is known for its rich, sweet flavor. It forms the base of the cocktail.
Rye whiskey: An alternative to bourbon, rye whiskey offers a spicier, more robust flavor profile.
Sugar cube: Provides the sweetness needed to balance the strong flavors of the whiskey and bitters.
Angostura bitters: A concentrated bitters made from herbs and spices, essential for adding complexity to the drink.
Orange peel: Adds a citrusy aroma and flavor, enhancing the overall experience of the cocktail.
Lemon peel: Complements the orange peel with a slightly different citrus note, adding depth to the drink.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing an Old-Fashioned, it's crucial to use large ice cubes rather than smaller ones. Large ice cubes melt more slowly, which helps maintain the integrity of the whiskey without diluting it too quickly. This ensures that each sip remains balanced and flavorful throughout the entire drink.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
bourbon - Substitute with brandy: Brandy offers a similar depth and warmth, making it a good alternative for those who prefer a slightly fruitier note.
rye whiskey - Substitute with scotch: Scotch provides a smoky and complex flavor profile that can add a unique twist to the classic drink.
sugar cube - Substitute with simple syrup: Simple syrup dissolves more easily and ensures a consistent sweetness throughout the drink.
angostura bitters - Substitute with orange bitters: Orange bitters add a citrusy note that complements the orange peel and lemon peel.
orange peel - Substitute with grapefruit peel: Grapefruit peel provides a slightly more bitter and aromatic citrus flavor.
lemon peel - Substitute with lime peel: Lime peel offers a tangy and fresh citrus note that can brighten up the drink.
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How To Store / Freeze This Recipe
- Store any leftover bourbon or rye whiskey in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality. Ensure the bottle is tightly sealed to prevent oxidation.
- For the sugar cubes, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to avoid moisture absorption.
- Angostura bitters should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The bottle cap should be securely fastened to preserve its aromatic properties.
- Fresh orange peels and lemon peels can be stored in the refrigerator. Place them in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container to keep them from drying out.
- If you have prepared orange peels and lemon peels in advance, you can freeze them. Lay the peels flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This will keep them fresh for up to three months.
- To maintain the integrity of the ice cubes, use a dedicated ice cube tray and store the cubes in a sealed plastic bag in the freezer to prevent them from absorbing any unwanted odors.
- If you have mixed the Old-Fashioned cocktail and need to store it, pour it into a glass bottle with a tight seal. Keep it in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours for the best flavor.
- Avoid storing the mixed Old-Fashioned with the ice cubes as the ice will dilute the drink over time. Instead, add fresh ice when ready to serve.
How To Reheat Leftovers
- Place the old-fashioned glass with the classic old-fashioned in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to chill it slightly.
- Remove the glass from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to take off the chill.
- Add a fresh sugar cube and a few dashes of angostura bitters to the glass.
- Muddle the sugar cube and bitters gently to dissolve the sugar.
- Add a few large ice cubes to the glass.
- Pour the leftover bourbon or rye whiskey over the ice.
- Stir gently to combine the ingredients and chill the drink evenly.
- Garnish with a fresh strip of orange peel and lemon peel to enhance the aroma and flavor.
Essential Tools for This Recipe
Old-fashioned glass: The traditional glass used for serving an Old-Fashioned cocktail, providing the right volume and aesthetic.
Muddler: A tool used to crush the sugar cube and mix it with the bitters and water, ensuring the sugar is fully dissolved.
Jigger: A measuring tool to accurately measure the 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey.
Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring the cocktail gently to mix the ingredients without over-diluting.
Peeler: A tool to create thin strips of orange and lemon peel for garnishing the drink.
Ice cube tray: Used to make large ice cubes, which melt slower and keep the drink cold without diluting it too quickly.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Pre-mix the sugar and bitters: Combine sugar and bitters in advance to save time when making multiple drinks.
Use simple syrup: Substitute the sugar cube with simple syrup to speed up the process.
Pre-cut citrus peels: Prepare strips of orange peel and lemon peel ahead of time.
Use large ice cubes: Keep a tray of large ice cubes ready in the freezer for quick access.
Batch your drinks: If serving a crowd, mix a larger batch of whiskey and bitters in a pitcher.

Classic Old-Fashioned Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
- 1 sugar cube Sugar
- 2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters
- 1 strip Orange Peel
- 1 strip Lemon Peel
Instructions
- Place the sugar cube in an Old-Fashioned glass.
- Saturate the sugar cube with bitters, add a few dashes of plain water.
- Muddle until the sugar cube is dissolved.
- Fill the glass with large ice cubes, add whiskey, and gently stir.
- Garnish with an orange peel and a lemon peel.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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