Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail recipe
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The Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned is a modern, dessert-leaning twist on the Old Fashioned template: whiskey, a touch of sweetness, and bitters built for slow sipping. While the Old Fashioned itself is one of the earliest defined cocktail styles, this variation feels very contemporary—swapping plain sugar for fruit syrup and layering in specialty bitters to steer the drink toward richer, after-dinner territory without losing that classic, spirit-forward backbone.
You’ll find bourbon’s vanilla-and-caramel warmth takes the lead, with cherry syrup adding a concentrated, jammy sweetness that softens the whiskey’s edges. Chocolate bitters bring a dry cocoa accent that deepens the mid-palate rather than turning it candy-sweet, while the aromatic bitters add a sharper spice-and-herb lift that keeps the cherry and chocolate from feeling heavy. The result is balanced: rich up front, structured through the finish.
Serve it in a lowball when you want something cozy and grown-up—ideal for nightcaps, winter gatherings, or as a “dessert in a glass” for whiskey drinkers. If you like Old Fashioneds but crave a darker, fruitier profile, this one hits the spot without straying too far from the original vibe.
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Lowball / rocks glass
Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Bourbon leads with warm oak and vanilla, rounded by cherry syrup’s dark fruit sweetness, while chocolate bitters add cocoa depth and aromatic bitters bring clove-like spice that lingers on the finish. The cherry syrup softens the bourbon’s edge as the two bitters keep it from turning cloying, making it ideal for slow sippers who like dessert-leaning whiskey drinks.
Method
How to make a Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned
- Bourbon 60 ml, Cherry syrup 10 ml, Chocolate bitters 2 dashes, Aromatic bitters 1 dash
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- Add cherry syrup, chocolate bitters, and Angostura bitters to a glass
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- Stir to combine the ingredients
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- Add ice cubes and pour in the bourbon
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- Stir until well chilled and strain into a glass with fresh ice
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- Garnish with a cherry and a chocolate-dipped orange slice for extra decadence
Power tips
Elevate the Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned with these master mixologist tips
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Find out more- Infusing your bourbon with cocoa nibs for 24 hours before making the cocktail will amplify the chocolate notes, making them more pronounced and integrated, creating a complex layer of flavor that complements the cherry syrup spectacularly.
- Consider using a smoked glass technique to introduce a subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate and cherry elements. Smoke the glass before adding the cocktail by lighting a small piece of cherry wood and capturing the smoke in the glass.
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FAQ's
Can I use a different type of whiskey instead of bourbon in a Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned?
Yes, you can substitute other types of whiskey for bourbon in a Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned, although it will alter the flavor profile. Bourbon, known for its sweet and oaky notes, pairs exceptionally well with chocolate and cherry. However, using a rye whiskey can impart a spicier, more robust flavor, while a Scotch whisky might introduce a smoky element to the drink. Experimenting with different whiskeys can be a fun way to customize the cocktail to suit your personal taste preferences. Keep in mind that altering the main spirit can significantly change the overall experience of this luxurious cocktail.
What is a good garnish for a Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned?
A Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned can be garnished with a variety of complimentary options that enhance its rich flavors. A classic choice would be a maraschino cherry, which ties into the cherry syrup used in the drink. You can also consider using a twist of orange peel, lightly expressed over the glass to release its fragrant oils, adding a citrusy brightness to each sip. For a more indulgent touch, consider grating a small amount of dark chocolate over the top right before serving. These garnishing options not only add to the visual appeal of the cocktail but also complement the drink's characteristic flavors.
What is the best way to prepare a Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned?
The Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned is best prepared by first combining the bourbon, cherry syrup, chocolate bitters, and Angostura bitters in a cocktail shaker with ice. While traditional Old Fashioneds are typically stirred, shaking this cocktail helps to blend the thick cherry syrup more evenly with the bitters and bourbon, creating a well-integrated flavor profile. After shaking, strain the mixture into a lowball glass over a large ice cube, which will keep the drink cool without overly diluting it. Shaking the mix ensures that the robust flavors of cherry and chocolate meld seamlessly with the warmth of the bourbon, providing a smooth, dessert-like drink.
What occasions is a Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned best suited for?
The Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned is a versatile cocktail that excels at both intimate and celebratory settings. Its rich, dessert-like quality makes it a perfect after-dinner treat, ideal for cozy winter gatherings or festive holiday parties. It's a comforting choice that complements quiet evenings by the fire or can serve as a sophisticated offering for dinner parties, impressing guests with its unique flavor blend. Its luxurious taste profile means it's fitting for occasions where indulging in a decadent drink feels just right, such as anniversaries or a special date night.
What food pairs well with a Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned?
A Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned pairs exquisitely with desserts and rich meals that can stand up to its bold flavors. Consider pairing it with dark chocolate desserts, such as a molten lava cake or a rich chocolate tart, which echo the drink's chocolate notes while complementing its cherry undertones. Cheese platters featuring creamy or blue cheeses can also pair well, their savory aspects balancing the sweetness of the cocktail. For main courses, dishes with savory and sweet elements, such as glazed roast duck or pork with a cherry or berry reduction, can create a harmonious dining experience alongside this sophisticated cocktail.
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