Maple Old Fashioned
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Maple Old Fashioned
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.76 / 5
The Maple Old Fashioned brings a warm, cozy twist to the classic cocktail, perfect for autumn or winter evenings by the fire. With rich maple syrup replacing the usual sugar, this drink blends the deep, spicy notes of bourbon or rye with the sweetness of pure maple. The result is a smooth, mellow cocktail that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re a fan of the traditional Old Fashioned or looking for a fresh take, the Maple Old Fashioned is sure to impress with its layered flavors and inviting aroma.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail
Base ingredient
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Bourbon
Calories
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140 calories
Garnish
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Orange peel, Maraschino cherry
Alcohol content
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25% | 1.58 units *

Tags

Bourbon ingredient icon
Bourbon cocktails

Lowball glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Bourbon cocktail ingredient icon for the Maple Old Fashioned cocktail
Bourbon
Angostura Bitters cocktail ingredient icon for the Maple Old Fashioned cocktail
Angostura Bitters
Maple Syrup cocktail ingredient icon for the Maple Old Fashioned cocktail
Maple Syrup
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The Maple Old Fashioned wraps the familiar warmth of bourbon with the cozy sweetness of maple syrup, crafting a delightful balance that feels like a fireside hug. The bitters add just the right amount of depth, allowing the maple's rich sweetness to mellow out the bourbon's bold character, making it a perfect sipper for chilly nights.

Method
How to make a Maple Old Fashioned

Serves 4 · Takes 5 minutes
In a mixing glass, combine maple syrup and bitters
Add bourbon or rye and ice, then stir until well chilled
Strain into a lowball glass over a large ice cube
Garnish with an orange peel and a maraschino cherry for a touch of sweetness and color

Power tips
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Consider using a barrel-aged maple syrup for an enhanced depth of flavor that complements the bourbon's natural notes, creating a more harmonious taste.
Lightly torch the orange peel before expressing the oils onto the cocktail for a slightly smoky aroma that creates a more complex olfactory experience.
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Maple Old Fashioned masterclass

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Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail Drink Recipe

The Old Fashioned cocktail is a timeless classic that has become synonymous with sophistication and...

Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Bitters  ·  Stir  ·  Strain  ·  Garnish  · 

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FAQ's

Occasion suitability icon

Is the Maple Old Fashioned suitable for any particular seasons or occasions?

The Maple Old Fashioned is ideally suited for autumn and winter evenings, thanks to its warm and cozy flavor profile. The combination of bourbon and maple syrup brings a sense of warmth and comfort, making it perfect for sipping by the fire or during festive gatherings. Its rich and inviting aromas make it a great choice for cozy indoor events, holiday parties, or even as a signature cocktail for Thanksgiving dinners. This cocktail's comforting and indulgent nature makes it an excellent choice for those cooler months when you want to enjoy something both smooth and satisfying.

Ingredient specifics icon

Why is maple syrup used instead of sugar in the Maple Old Fashioned?

Maple syrup is used in the Maple Old Fashioned to introduce a distinctive depth of flavor that complements the spicy and robust notes of bourbon. Unlike regular sugar, maple syrup adds a natural sweetness with subtle caramel and vanilla undertones, which enhance the overall complexity of the drink. This substitution not only provides a richer taste but also aligns with the cocktail's autumnal and wintry appeal, as maple syrup is often associated with those seasons. The result is a smoother, mellower cocktail experience that stays true to the essence of an Old Fashioned while delivering a unique twist.

Preparation techniques icon

What is the proper technique for preparing a Maple Old Fashioned?

To prepare a Maple Old Fashioned, the key is to shake the ingredients rather than stir, which is a slight departure from the traditional Old Fashioned preparation. Start by adding 60 ml of bourbon, 3-4 dashes of Angostura bitters, and ½ teaspoon of maple syrup into a shaker filled with ice. Shake the mixture until well-chilled, ensuring the ingredients are thoroughly blended. Strain the cocktail into a lowball glass over a large ice cube to maintain its chill while preventing it from diluting too quickly. This technique results in a well-integrated cocktail with a refreshingly smooth texture.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How does the alcohol content of a Maple Old Fashioned compare to other cocktails?

The Maple Old Fashioned has an alcohol content of 25%, which is relatively moderate compared to some other classic cocktails. This percentage is common for an Old Fashioned, as it primarily consists of spirits without much dilution. In comparison, cocktails like the Martini or the Manhattan can have similar or even higher alcohol content, depending on their preparation. The Maple Old Fashioned balances the strong character of bourbon with the sweetness of maple syrup and bitters, making it a flavorful yet potent choice for those who appreciate bold, spirit-forward beverages.

Seasonal time recommendations icon

What makes the Maple Old Fashioned particularly appealing during certain seasons?

The Maple Old Fashioned's appeal during the autumn and winter seasons can be attributed to its use of maple syrup, which evokes the cozy and nostalgic flavors of these times of the year. The ingredients meld together to create a drink that's both warming and inviting, ideal for colder weather. The bourbon provides a robust base that is perfectly complemented by the natural sweetness and distinct taste of maple syrup, while the Angostura bitters add an aromatic complexity that enhances the overall experience. This cocktail's profile aligns with what many seek in a seasonal beverage, making it a perfect accompaniment for seasonal gatherings and cooler evenings.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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