Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail Drink Recipe
The Old Fashioned cocktail is a timeless classic that has become synonymous with sophistication and...
Coffee Old Fashioned Cocktail recipe
Cocktail recipe
Rating
4.8 / 5
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The Coffee Old Fashioned is a modern twist on the Old Fashioned template, keeping the drink’s spirit-forward backbone while nudging...
... more
The Coffee Old Fashioned is a modern twist on the Old Fashioned template, keeping the drink’s spirit-forward backbone while nudging it into after-dinner territory. You’ll find it sits comfortably in the contemporary wave of coffee-in-cocktails riffs, where a small measure of coffee is used like a seasoning rather than a full-on mixer. It reads as familiar and classic in shape, but with a distinctly café-leaning accent that makes it feel current without straying far from tradition.
On the palate, bourbon brings warmth and vanilla-leaning sweetness, while aromatic bitters tighten the edges and add a dry, spiced snap. Coffee adds a roasted, slightly bitter depth that plays against the whiskey rather than covering it up. A small touch of maple syrup rounds everything out, smoothing the coffee’s bite and knitting the bitters into the bourbon’s sweetness for a richer, more cohesive sip.
Serve this when you want something contemplative and unfussy: a slow sipper for late evenings, post-dinner wind-downs, or swapping dessert for a drink. If you like whiskey cocktails but also reach for coffee, you’ll appreciate how it stays bold and spirit-led while still feeling cozy and indulgent.
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Base ingredient
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Bourbon
Calories
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154 calories
Garnish
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Orange twist, Coffee beans
Alcohol content
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22% | 1.72 units units of alcohol *
Cocktail Colin says:
5/5
Bourbon leads with warm oak and vanilla, deepened by coffee’s roasted bitterness, while aromatic bitters add clove-and-citrus lift and maple syrup rounds the edges with a faint caramel sweetness. It works because the coffee and bitters dry out the maple’s sweetness without dulling the bourbon, making it ideal for after-dinner sippers who like spirit-forward drinks with a roasted finish.
Method
How to make a Coffee Old Fashioned
Serves 4 · Takes 5 minutes
- Bourbon 60 ml, Aromatic bitters 3 dashes, Coffee 15 ml, Maple syrup ½ teaspoon
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- In a mixing glass, combine coffee, bitters, and maple syrup
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- Add bourbon and ice, then stir until well chilled
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- Strain into a lowball glass over a large ice cube
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- Garnish with an orange twist and a few coffee beans for an aromatic finish
Power tips
Elevate the Coffee Old Fashioned with these master mixologist tips
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Find out more- Use a high-quality, freshly brewed coffee, preferably a cold brew or espresso, to enhance the depth and richness of the coffee flavor. Cold brew coffee provides a smoother and fuller body, which pairs beautifully with bourbon.
- Consider infusing your bourbon with coffee beans for 24 hours before using it in the cocktail. This will impart a subtle, cohesive coffee aroma throughout the drink without overpowering the bourbon's character.
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FAQ's
What type of coffee should be used in a Coffee Old Fashioned?
For a Coffee Old Fashioned, it is recommended to use a strong, bold coffee to match the robust flavors of the bourbon. Espresso or a dark roast coffee typically complements the other ingredients well, offering a rich and intense flavor profile without being overly bitter. The coffee should be cooled before mixing with the other ingredients to ensure the cocktail remains properly chilled, contributing to its smooth and refreshing profile.
Can I use a different type of whiskey instead of bourbon in a Coffee Old Fashioned?
Yes, while bourbon is the traditional choice for a Coffee Old Fashioned, you can substitute it with other types of whiskey, such as rye or a blended whiskey. Each type will bring a slightly different character to the cocktail. Rye whiskey, for instance, tends to be spicier, which can add an interesting twist to the drink. Similarly, a smoother blended whiskey might result in a mellower flavor profile. Experimenting with different types of whiskey can personalize the cocktail to fit your taste preferences.
Why is the Coffee Old Fashioned shaken and not stirred?
The Coffee Old Fashioned is shaken because shaking helps to properly mix the ingredients, especially when incorporating coffee. Shaking increases the level of dilution slightly, which can be beneficial in blending the flavors and ensuring a colder, more refreshing drink. Shaking also creates a silky and smoother texture, enhancing the mouthfeel of the cocktail. While the classic Old Fashioned is often stirred, this coffee-infused version benefits from the shaking process to achieve a harmonious balance of flavors.
What is the ideal occasion to serve a Coffee Old Fashioned?
The Coffee Old Fashioned is well-suited for evening gatherings and occasions where you want to offer a sophisticated and unique drink choice. Its energizing coffee notes make it a great option for after-dinner drinks or socializing late into the evening. It can serve as an elegant alternative to dessert cocktails and is particularly favored by coffee enthusiasts who appreciate a rich blend of flavors. Whether for a cozy night in or a stylish cocktail party, the Coffee Old Fashioned adds a touch of refined indulgence to any occasion.
How does the alcohol content of a Coffee Old Fashioned compare to other cocktails?
With an alcohol content of around 22%, the Coffee Old Fashioned has a relatively moderate strength compared to many classic cocktails. It is generally stronger than lighter citrus-based cocktails like a Mojito or a Tom Collins, which typically have lower alcohol content due to their higher mixer-to-spirit ratio. However, it can be weaker than other spirit-forward cocktails like the classic Old Fashioned or a Manhattan, which might have a higher alcohol percentage. This makes the Coffee Old Fashioned both robust in flavor and moderately potent, ideal for those who enjoy a balanced cocktail experience.
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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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