Description
The Christmas Old Fashioned is a festive twist on the classic cocktail, combining rich bourbon or rye whiskey with a warm, spiced simple syrup infused with cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and vanilla. Enhanced by aromatic and orange bitters, this drink is garnished with an orange twist or cinnamon stick for a seasonal touch, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Christmas Old Fashioned
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1/4 oz spiced simple syrup
- 2 dashes aromatic bitters
- 1 dash orange bitters
- Ice cubes
- 1 orange twist or cinnamon stick for garnish
- Optional: 1 maraschino cherry for garnish
For the Spiced Simple Syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4-5 whole cloves
- 1 whole star anise
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make Spiced Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine water and granulated sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Add Spices and Simmer: Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise to the saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and steep the spices for 10 minutes.
- Cool and Strain Syrup: Remove the pan from heat and let the syrup cool. Once cooled, strain out the spices and stir in vanilla extract. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Fill Mixing Glass with Ice: Place ice cubes into a mixing glass to chill the drink properly.
- Add Ingredients: Pour bourbon or rye whiskey into the mixing glass along with the spiced simple syrup, aromatic bitters, and orange bitters.
- Stir the Cocktail: Gently stir the mixture with a bar spoon for about 20 seconds to combine the flavors and chill the drink.
- Strain into Glass: Strain the cocktail into an old-fashioned glass over a large ice cube or several smaller ice cubes.
- Garnish: Add an orange twist or a cinnamon stick as garnish. Optionally, add a maraschino cherry for a festive touch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Sip slowly to enjoy the warm spices and rich flavors of this holiday-inspired cocktail.
Notes
- The spiced simple syrup can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to two weeks.
- Adjust the simple syrup amount to taste for desired sweetness.
- Use a large ice cube to minimize dilution and maintain flavor balance.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute whiskey with non-alcoholic whiskey alternatives or spiced tea.
- This cocktail is perfect for holiday parties and cozy winter evenings.
