Old Fashioned Mocktail
Learn how to make the perfect Old Fashioned cocktail with this classic recipe. Made with bourbon, bitters, demerara syrup, and a fresh orange peel, this timeless whiskey cocktail is smooth, balanced, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you're new to mixology or looking to perfect your favorite bourbon cocktail, this classic Old Fashioned recipe delivers bar-quality results in just a few minutes.
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Servings: 1 mocktail
Ingredients
2 oz bourbon whiskey
1 teaspoon demerara simple syrup (or 1 demerara sugar cube)
2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
1 dash orange bitters (optional, but recommended)
1 large clear ice cube
1 wide strip of fresh orange peel, for garnish
1 Luxardo maraschino cherry, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Chill the Glass: Place a rocks glass in the freezer for 2–3 minutes. Alternatively, fill the glass with ice and water while preparing the remaining ingredients.
2. Build the Cocktail: Discard the ice water if using. Add the demerara syrup and bitters directly to the chilled glass. If using a sugar cube, add a small splash of water and gently muddle until completely dissolved.
3. Add the Ice: Place one large clear ice cube into the glass. Large ice cubes melt more slowly, helping maintain the rich flavor of your Old Fashioned without excessive dilution.
4. Pour the Bourbon: Pour the bourbon over the ice.
5. Stir: Using a bar spoon, stir gently for 20–30 seconds until the cocktail is properly chilled and slightly diluted. Taste and stir for an additional 5–10 seconds if you prefer a smoother finish.
6. Garnish: Hold the orange peel over the glass with the peel facing downward and gently squeeze to express the citrus oils over the drink. Rub the peel around the rim of the glass before dropping it into the cocktail. Garnish with a Luxardo cherry if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy your classic bourbon Old Fashioned.
Notes
Best Bourbon for an Old Fashioned
A high-quality bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, or baking spices works beautifully in an Old Fashioned. Chattanooga Whiskey's Tennessee High Malt is an excellent choice, but any well-balanced bourbon you enjoy sipping will produce great results.
Why Use Demerara Syrup?
Demerara syrup adds a subtle molasses richness that complements bourbon better than standard simple syrup, creating a deeper and more complex flavor profile.
Clear Ice Makes a Difference
Large clear ice cubes melt more slowly than regular ice, keeping your Old Fashioned cold while minimizing dilution.
Choosing the Right Bitters
Angostura bitters provide the classic flavor found in a traditional Old Fashioned. Adding a dash of orange bitters brings extra brightness and enhances the citrus aroma.
Stirring Is Essential
One of the biggest differences between an average and an exceptional Old Fashioned mocktail is stirring. Because there is no alcohol to naturally bind the flavors together, a full 30–40 second stir helps create a smoother, more cohesive drink.
Pro Tips
Use a large clear ice cube to minimize dilution.
Always chill your glass before serving.
Express the orange peel over the drink to release its aromatic oils.
Taste before serving and adjust the warmth with a tiny pinch of black pepper or a drop of ginger juice if desired.
Use high-quality non-alcoholic spirits for the most authentic whiskey-like flavor.
Why You'll Love This Old Fashioned Mocktail Recipe
Rich, complex whiskey-inspired flavor without alcohol
Ready in just 3 minutes
Perfect for Dry January, sober lifestyles, and mindful drinking
Easy to make at home
A sophisticated zero-proof cocktail that feels just as special as the original