Irresistible Bourbon Maple Old Fashioned Recipe Perfect for Fall

The warm aroma of bourbon mingling with maple syrup and a hint of orange zest—this Bourbon Maple Old Fashioned is the fall cocktail of your dreams. It’s the kind of drink that feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket while the leaves crunch underfoot. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, this cocktail is a surefire way to set the mood for autumn.

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was searching for a way to bring the flavors of fall into one glass. I wanted something classic but with a seasonal twist—enter maple syrup. Its natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the smoky richness of bourbon, and when you add just a dash of bitters and garnish with orange and cherry, you’ve got a drink that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious.

Trust me, this isn’t just your average Old Fashioned—it’s your new favorite fall cocktail. Let’s dive into what makes it so irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Fall: The combination of maple syrup and bourbon screams autumn in the best way possible.
• Quick & Easy: You can whip this up in under five minutes—no complicated techniques required.
• Seasonal Twist: Maple syrup adds an extra layer of flavor that makes this cocktail stand out from the classic version.
• Impressive Presentation: Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, this drink looks stunning with its orange peel and cherry garnish.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or try different bitters to make it your own.

This Bourbon Maple Old Fashioned is more than just a drink—it’s an experience. From the first sip, you’ll taste the smooth, smoky bourbon, the subtle sweetness of maple, and the bright citrus pop from the orange zest. It’s cozy, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This cocktail keeps things simple with just a few ingredients that pack a punch. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Bourbon: Choose a good-quality bourbon for the base of this drink. I recommend something smooth like Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve.
• Maple Syrup: Go for pure maple syrup—it’s worth splurging on for that authentic, rich flavor.
• Angostura Bitters: Adds complexity and balances the sweetness of the maple syrup.
• Orange Peel: Essential for that citrusy aroma and a pop of flavor.
• Luxardo Cherry (or Maraschino Cherry): For the perfect finishing touch.
• Ice: Large cubes or a single sphere work best to chill your drink without watering it down.

These ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store or liquor shop, and once you have them, you can make this cocktail anytime the mood strikes.

Equipment Needed

Gather your tools to make cocktail mixing a breeze:

• Old Fashioned Glass: For the perfect presentation.
• Bar Spoon: Essential for stirring the drink properly.
• Peeler: To create a beautiful orange peel garnish.
• Measuring Jigger: Helps you get the perfect ratio every time.
• Ice Mold: Not mandatory, but large ice cubes or spheres make this cocktail feel extra special.

If you don’t have a fancy bar spoon, a regular spoon will work in a pinch. And if you’re low on equipment, don’t worry—this recipe is forgiving and easy to adapt.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare Your Glass: Place a large ice cube or sphere in an Old Fashioned glass.
2. Measure Your Ingredients: Pour 2 oz (60 ml) of bourbon into the glass, followed by 1/2 oz (15 ml) of pure maple syrup.
3. Add Bitters: Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a flavored bitters like orange or chocolate.
4. Stir: Using a bar spoon, gently stir the ingredients for about 20 seconds to combine and chill the drink.
5. Garnish: Peel a strip of orange zest, twist it over the glass to release the oils, and place it in the drink. Add a Luxardo cherry on top for a final touch.
6. Serve: Your Bourbon Maple Old Fashioned is ready to enjoy. Sip slowly and savor the flavors!

Pro Tip: If your drink tastes too sweet, add a splash of soda water to lighten it up. If you prefer it sweeter, increase the maple syrup slightly.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Bourbon Maple Old Fashioned turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose Quality Bourbon: The bourbon is the star of the show, so opt for a brand you love drinking neat.
• Use Pure Maple Syrup: Avoid pancake syrup—it won’t give you the same depth of flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Stirring: Stirring helps blend the flavors and chills the drink evenly. It’s worth taking your time here.
• Fresh Garnishes: Use fresh orange peel for the best aroma and flavor. Pre-packaged garnishes just don’t compare.
• Experiment: Try swapping the bitters or adding a splash of spiced rum for a fun twist.

Honestly, the beauty of this drink is how simple it is—no fancy tricks required, just great ingredients and a little attention to detail.

Variations & Adaptations

Looking to switch things up? Here are some easy variations:

• Smoky Version: Replace bourbon with a smoky scotch whisky for a bold twist.
• Spiced Maple Old Fashioned: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a holiday vibe.
• Non-Alcoholic Option: Use non-alcoholic whiskey and maple syrup for a mocktail version.
• Gluten-Free Twist: Most bourbons are naturally gluten-free, but double-check if you have sensitivities.
• Seasonal Fruit Garnish: Swap the orange peel for apple slices or a cinnamon stick during fall.

I recently tried adding a splash of apple cider to this drink, and it was such a hit—it added a delightful seasonal flavor without overpowering the bourbon.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to serve and store your Bourbon Maple Old Fashioned:

• Serving: Serve chilled in an Old Fashioned glass with your garnish of choice. It pairs beautifully with roasted nuts or charcuterie boards.
• Storage: While this drink is best made fresh, you can mix a larger batch of the bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
• Reheating: Not applicable—this drink is meant to be served cold.
• Flavor Development: The flavors meld beautifully over time, so a pre-mixed batch can taste even better the next day.

Whether sipping solo or serving to guests, this cocktail is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an approximate breakdown of nutrition per serving:

• Calories: About 150-200
• Carbohydrates: Mainly from the maple syrup—approximately 12g
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Sugar: Natural sugar from the maple syrup

Maple syrup brings antioxidants and trace minerals, while bourbon contains no carbs or sugar (though it is high in calories). Enjoy this drink as an occasional treat—it’s all about balance!

Conclusion

This Bourbon Maple Old Fashioned is the ultimate fall cocktail, perfect for cozy nights and festive gatherings. Its warm, comforting flavors and elegant presentation make it a standout drink that’s sure to impress.

I love how easy it is to customize this recipe based on your preferences. Whether you like it sweeter, smokier, or even alcohol-free, there’s a version for everyone. Plus, it’s just fun to sip something that feels so quintessentially autumn!

If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments how it turned out—or tag me on social media so I can see your beautiful creations! Cheers to making every sip of fall memorable.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of whiskey?

Yes! You can swap bourbon for rye whiskey or even scotch if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Is maple syrup necessary for this recipe?

Maple syrup is what gives this cocktail its fall twist, but you can use a simple syrup or honey if that’s what you have on hand.

What’s the best garnish for this drink?

An orange peel and Luxardo cherry are classic choices, but you can get creative with apple slices or a cinnamon stick.

Can I make this cocktail in advance?

You can mix the bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters ahead of time and store in the fridge. Just add ice and garnish when serving.

What’s the best bourbon for this recipe?

Look for a smooth, high-quality bourbon like Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, or Bulleit. Experiment to find your favorite!

Print