Updated on: 1/24/2025
Maple Old Fashioned Recipe: A Sweet Twist on a Classic
There's something undeniably charming about sipping on a cocktail that combines the rich sweetness of maple syrup with the robust warmth of bourbon. One evening, after a long day of exploring the vibrant streets of Montreal, I stumbled upon a cozy little bar. The bartender, a jovial fellow with a knack for storytelling, recommended a drink that would soon become one of my favorites: the Maple Old Fashioned. As I took my first sip, the harmonious blend of flavors danced on my palate, leaving me both surprised and delighted. It was like autumn in a glass, and I knew I had to share this delightful concoction with you all.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1
- Alcohol Content: Approximately 25-30% ABV
- Calories: Around 200-250 per serving
Classic Maple Old Fashioned Recipe
Creating this delightful cocktail is a breeze. Here's how you can bring a touch of maple magic to your home bar:
Ingredients:
- 60 ml bourbon
- 15 ml maple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel, for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a mixing glass, combine the bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters.
- Add ice cubes and stir until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink and drop it into the glass.
- Enjoy your sweet and smoky masterpiece!
Ingredients and Their Role
The beauty of this mix lies in its simplicity and the quality of its components. Let's break down the key players:
- Bourbon: This spirit forms the backbone of the drink, providing a rich, caramel-like depth. Opt for a mid-range bourbon to balance quality and cost.
- Maple Syrup: The star of the show, maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and a hint of earthiness that elevates the cocktail. Pure maple syrup is a must for the best flavor.
- Angostura Bitters: These bitters add complexity and enhance the flavors, rounding out the sweetness with their aromatic spices.
- Orange Peel: A twist of orange peel not only adds a fragrant citrus note but also a touch of elegance to your drink.
Variations to Try
Why not experiment with some exciting twists on this classic? Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
- Maple Bacon Old Fashioned: Add a savory touch by infusing your bourbon with bacon or garnishing with a crispy bacon strip.
- Smoked Maple Old Fashioned: Introduce a smoky element by using smoked maple syrup or smoking the glass before serving.
- Maple Bourbon Punch: Perfect for gatherings, mix larger quantities of bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters, and serve in a punch bowl with slices of orange.
Tips for Perfecting Your Cocktail
Crafting the perfect drink is all about the details. Here are some tips to ensure your cocktail is a hit every time:
- Ice Matters: Use large ice cubes to slow down the dilution, keeping your drink cold without watering it down too quickly.
- Stir, Don’t Shake: Stirring the ingredients ensures a smooth, silky texture, which is essential for this type of drink.
- Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final product, so choose wisely.
Share Your Maple Old Fashioned Experience!
Now that you have the recipe and some fun variations to try, it's time to get mixing! I'd love to hear how your Maple Old Fashioned turns out. Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don't forget to spread the word by sharing this recipe with your friends on social media. Cheers to sweet moments and delicious sips!