Classic Whiskey Old Fashioned Cocktail (the perfect ratio)

This classic old fashioned is made with bourbon or rye, sugar, and Angostura bitters, then stirred until smooth and chilled. It's bold, balanced, and ready in just 5 minutes.

Once you know how to make a classic old fashioned, it quickly becomes a go-to. It's a simple, spirit-forward cocktail made with whiskey, sugar, and Angostura bitters, then stirred until perfectly chilled and smooth.

I always stir-never shake-so the drink stays silky and balanced without getting watered down. A strip of orange peel adds a bright citrus aroma, and a Luxardo cherry brings a subtle richness that rounds everything out.

I love how the flavors come together: warm bourbon or rye, a touch of sweetness, and that unmistakable bitter note. It's easy to make, ready in minutes, and one of those cocktails I come back to again and again.

Tip: Try a flaming orange peel

This tip suits two types of people: those who like smoky flavors, and those who like fun tricks! If you're like me, you're both! Take a little slice of orange peel, then carefully light a match or a lighter next to it before squeezing the zest out. The juice will give a little spark. Hold it over your glass to infuse some of those smoky citrus flavors.

Kristen Stevens

Classic Whiskey Old Fashioned Cocktail (the perfect ratio)

A classic old fashioned made with bourbon or rye, sugar, and Angostura bitters, then stirred and garnished with orange peel and a cherry.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 1 cocktail

Course: Cocktail

Ingredients  

• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar see notes
• 1 teaspoon cold water
• 4 drops Angostura bitters see notes
• 2 ounces whiskey see notes
• 2 inch piece of orange peel
• 1-2 Luxardo cherries

Method

 

1. Add the sugar, cold water, and bitters to a cocktail shaker and stir until the sugar has mostly dissolved.
   1 teaspoon granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon cold water, 4 drops Angostura bitters
   
2. Add a few handfuls of ice and the whiskey and stir for 30 seconds.
   2 ounces whiskey
   
3. Add a large ice cube to a rocks glass, run the orange peel over the edge of the glass, then put the peel into the glass. Strain the cocktail into the glass and garnish with a Luxardo cherry.
   2 inch piece of orange peel, 1-2 Luxardo cherries
   
Tried this recipe? Let us know how it went in the comments below - and if you make it, tag us at @findyourcocktail on Instagram. We love seeing your creations!

Notes

Sugar: Feel free to substitute another type of sugar. Maple syrup works really well!

Bitters: Angostura bitters are found in most grocery stores. For a slightly different taste, try black walnut bitters or orange bitters.

Whiskey: For this recipe, choose your favorite type of whiskey. I love bourbon, so that’s what I normally reach for, but rye is nice, too.

Orange peel: Rub the orange peel around the rim of the glass to elevate this drink. You’ll be able to smell it every time you take a sip.

Cherries: I love Luxardo-style cherries, which are basically fancy maraschino cherries. You can use regular maraschino cherries if you prefer.