Introduction

The Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned with Orange Twist is a sophisticated twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. This variation replaces traditional sugar with rich, natural maple syrup, enhancing the depth of bourbon while adding a smooth, warm sweetness. The bright, aromatic orange twist elevates the drink, giving it a zesty finish that balances the caramel and vanilla notes of the bourbon.

Perfect for cozy evenings, dinner parties, or holiday gatherings, this cocktail is a timeless drink with a seasonal flair. Maple syrup adds warmth and complexity, making it especially delightful during autumn and winter months.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s elegant, well-balanced, and incredibly flavorful. The maple syrup complements the bourbon without overpowering it, and the orange twist adds a refreshing citrus aroma that brightens each sip. It’s a cocktail that feels both classic and modern, perfect for savoring slowly or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Every sip is smooth, slightly sweet, and fragrant, making it an ideal companion to cozy nights, holiday celebrations, or sophisticated gatherings.

Why It’s a Must-Try Drink

Classic with a twist: Combines the timeless Old Fashioned with maple sweetness and citrus zest.
Rich and flavorful: Balanced sweetness, bitter notes, and aromatic citrus.
Easy to make: Requires minimal ingredients but yields a refined cocktail.
Perfect for any season: Works well for fall, winter, or cozy indoor evenings.
Impressive presentation: Orange twist garnish adds elegance.

Preparation and Serving Time

Preparation Time: 3–5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 (multiply ingredients for multiple servings)
Calories: ~160 per serving

Course & Cuisine

Course: Cocktail / Beverage
Cuisine: American / Contemporary

Ingredients (Per Serving)

2 oz bourbon
½ oz pure maple syrup
2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
Ice cubes
Orange peel twist (for garnish)

Optional Garnish:

Luxardo cherry or brandied cherry

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Glass

Use a short rocks glass (Old Fashioned glass). Add a large ice cube or several smaller cubes.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Pour 2 oz bourbon into the glass.
Add ½ oz pure maple syrup.
Add 2–3 dashes of Angostura bitters.

Step 3: Stir

Stir gently for about 20–30 seconds to mix the flavors and chill the drink.

Step 4: Add Garnish

Express the orange peel over the glass by gently twisting it to release the oils.
Drop the peel into the glass.
Optional: add a Luxardo cherry or brandied cherry for extra flair.

How to Serve

Serve immediately in an Old Fashioned or rocks glass.
Perfect for enjoying after dinner, during holiday gatherings, or as a refined evening cocktail.
Pair with rich appetizers, dark chocolate, or charcuterie for complementary flavors.

Recipe Tips

Use high-quality bourbon for the best flavor.
Adjust maple syrup based on desired sweetness.
Large ice cubes are preferred to chill without diluting too quickly.
Expressing the orange peel oils adds aromatic depth.
Stir gently, don’t shake, to preserve the smooth texture.

Variations

Smoky Maple Old Fashioned: Use a smoked bourbon or add a dash of smoked bitters.
Spiced Maple Old Fashioned: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
Maple Rye Old Fashioned: Substitute rye whiskey for bourbon for a spicier profile.
Maple Bourbon with Cinnamon Stick: Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a warming aroma.
Maple Bourbon Coffee Old Fashioned: Add a splash of cold brew coffee for a caffeinated twist.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: This cocktail is best prepared fresh; do not store mixed with ice.
Batch Prep: Mix bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters in advance (without ice or garnish) for up to 1 week in a sealed bottle. Add ice and garnish just before serving.
Freezing: Not recommended, as alcohol does not freeze well and will alter the flavor.

Special Equipment Needed

Old Fashioned or rocks glass
Jigger or measuring tool
Stirring spoon
Citrus peeler or knife

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this cocktail sweeter or less sweet?
Yes, adjust maple syrup to taste. Start with ½ oz and add more if desired.

Q2: Can I use simple syrup instead of maple syrup?
Yes, but maple syrup adds a distinct warm, caramel-like flavor.

Q3: Can I make multiple servings at once?
Yes, multiply bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters accordingly. Stir individually with ice and garnish before serving.

Q4: Can I substitute bourbon with another spirit?
Rye whiskey works well for a spicier variation; dark rum can create a richer, sweeter profile.

Conclusion

The Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned with Orange Twist is a timeless, elegant cocktail with a modern, seasonal twist. Its combination of smooth bourbon, natural maple sweetness, aromatic bitters, and citrus zest makes it a must-try for cocktail lovers seeking warmth, depth, and sophistication in a glass.

Perfect for cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, or impressing guests, this cocktail is easy to make, versatile, and guaranteed to delight.