The Classic Old-Fashioned is a timeless cocktail that has been enjoyed for generations. This elegant drink combines the rich flavors of bourbon or rye whiskey with the subtle sweetness of a sugar cube and the aromatic complexity of angostura bitters. Finished with a twist of orange peel, it’s a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication.
While most of the ingredients for the Classic Old-Fashioned are common, you might need to pay special attention to angostura bitters. This ingredient is a concentrated bitters made of herbs and spices, and it might not be a staple in every household. You can find it in the cocktail or baking section of most supermarkets.

Ingredients for Classic Old-Fashioned Recipe
Bourbon: A type of American whiskey known for its rich, sweet flavor. Rye whiskey: An alternative to bourbon, offering a spicier, more robust taste. Sugar cube: Provides the necessary sweetness to balance the drink. Angostura bitters: Adds a complex, aromatic flavor with hints of herbs and spices. Orange peel: Used as a garnish to add a citrusy aroma and flavor.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When muddling the sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water, ensure you use a gentle but firm pressure to fully dissolve the sugar. This helps to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the whiskey and creates a smoother drink.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
bourbon - Substitute with brandy: Brandy offers a similar warmth and complexity, making it a good alternative for a rich flavor profile.
rye whiskey - Substitute with scotch whisky: Scotch whisky provides a smoky and robust flavor that can add a unique twist to the classic drink.
sugar cube - Substitute with simple syrup: Simple syrup dissolves more easily and provides a consistent sweetness throughout the drink.
angostura bitters - Substitute with orange bitters: Orange bitters add a citrusy note that complements the whiskey and enhances the overall flavor.
orange peel - Substitute with lemon peel: Lemon peel offers a bright and zesty aroma, providing a refreshing contrast to the drink's richness.
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How to Store / Freeze This Recipe
- To maintain the integrity of your bourbon or rye whiskey, store the bottle in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. This helps preserve the flavor and quality of the spirit.
- For the sugar cubes, keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing moisture and clumping together.
- Angostura bitters should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place. The bitters have a long shelf life, so no need to refrigerate.
- If you have leftover orange peel strips, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for a few days and still be fresh for garnishing.
- To pre-make the sugar and bitters mixture, dissolve the sugar in bitters and a splash of water, then store it in a small, airtight container in the fridge. This mixture can last up to a week.
- If you want to prepare the Old-Fashioned in advance, mix the whiskey with the sugar and bitters mixture, then store it in a sealed bottle in the fridge. This can be kept for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to serve, simply pour the pre-mixed Old-Fashioned over a large ice cube in an old-fashioned glass and garnish with a fresh orange peel.
- For an extra touch, you can freeze the orange peel strips on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, they stay fresh and ready for garnishing whenever you need them.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- Pour the whiskey mixture into a small saucepan.
- Gently heat over low flame, stirring occasionally, until just warm. Avoid boiling to preserve the flavor.
- Alternatively, place the whiskey mixture in a microwave-safe container.
- Microwave on low power in 10-second intervals, stirring in between, until just warm.
- For a more aromatic experience, gently warm the orange peel separately in a dry pan over low heat before garnishing.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Mixing glass: A sturdy glass container used to combine and chill the ingredients before serving.
Muddler: A tool used to crush the sugar cube and mix it with the bitters and water.
Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used to stir the mixture thoroughly.
Jigger: A measuring tool used to ensure the correct amount of whiskey is added.
Strainer: A device used to strain the chilled mixture into the serving glass, leaving the ice behind.
Old-fashioned glass: A short, wide glass used to serve the cocktail, also known as a rocks glass.
Peeler: A tool used to create a strip of orange peel for garnish.
Large ice cube mold: A mold used to create a single large ice cube that will chill the drink without diluting it too quickly.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the whiskey, sugar cube, and bitters in advance to streamline the process.
Use simple syrup: Substitute the sugar cube with simple syrup to skip the muddling step.
Chill the glass: Pre-chill your old-fashioned glass in the freezer to save time on stirring.
Batch cocktails: Make a larger batch of the cocktail and store it in the fridge for easy serving.
Pre-cut garnish: Prepare the orange peel garnish ahead of time and store it in an airtight container.

Classic Old-Fashioned Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
- 1 sugar cube Sugar
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- 1 strip Orange Peel for garnish
Instructions
- Place the sugar cube in a mixing glass.
- Add the bitters and a splash of water.
- Muddle until the sugar is dissolved.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice and add the whiskey.
- Stir until well-chilled.
- Strain into an old-fashioned glass over one large ice cube.
- Garnish with the orange peel.
Nutritional Value
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