Christmas Old Fashioned Recipe With A Holiday Twist

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a twist on a classic cocktail? The Old Fashioned, a timeless favorite among whiskey enthusiasts, is the perfect canvas for a holiday makeover. In this article, we'll explore the world of Christmas Old Fashioned recipes, featuring unique and delicious twists on the traditional recipe.

What is an Old Fashioned?

Before we dive into the holiday variations, let's take a brief look at the classic Old Fashioned recipe. The Old Fashioned is a simple yet elegant cocktail made with bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. The traditional recipe consists of:

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1 sugar cube (about 1/2 teaspoon)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel (for garnish)

The simplicity of the Old Fashioned is part of its charm, allowing the flavors of the whiskey to take center stage. However, this simplicity also makes it an excellent candidate for experimentation and innovation.

Christmas Old Fashioned Recipes

Now, let's get into the holiday spirit with some Christmas Old Fashioned recipes that put a unique twist on the classic cocktail. Here are a few of our favorites:

1. Cranberry-Orange Old Fashioned

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/2 teaspoon cranberry syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon orange marmalade
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel (for garnish)
• Cranberries (for garnish)

This recipe adds a sweet and tangy twist to the classic Old Fashioned, with the cranberry syrup and orange marmalade providing a festive flavor combination.

2. Spiced Apple Cider Old Fashioned

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/2 teaspoon apple cider syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Apple slice (for garnish)

This recipe captures the warm and spicy flavors of the holiday season, with the apple cider syrup and cinnamon providing a delicious and aromatic twist on the classic Old Fashioned.

3. Maple-Pecan Old Fashioned

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon pecan syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Pecan (for garnish)

This recipe adds a rich and nutty flavor to the classic Old Fashioned, with the maple syrup and pecan syrup providing a delicious and indulgent twist.

Other Holiday Twists

• Try adding a splash of peppermint schnapps for a refreshing and cooling twist on the classic Old Fashioned.
• Experiment with different types of citrus, such as lemon or grapefruit, for a unique and tangy flavor combination.
• Add a dash of holiday spices, such as ground ginger or ground cloves, for a warm and aromatic flavor.

Benefits of Whiskey During the Holidays

Whiskey, in moderation, can be a wonderful addition to the holiday season. Here are a few benefits of whiskey during the holidays:

• Whiskey can help to warm and relax the body, making it a perfect choice for cold winter nights.
• Whiskey can be a great social lubricant, helping to bring people together and foster conversation and connection.
• Whiskey can be a delicious and festive addition to holiday meals and gatherings.

How to Make a Christmas Old Fashioned

Making a Christmas Old Fashioned is simple and easy. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Start by selecting your favorite bourbon or rye whiskey.
2. Add a sugar cube to a mixing glass and crush it with a muddler or the back of a spoon.
3. Add 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey to the mixing glass.
4. Add a dash of bitters and any additional holiday ingredients, such as cranberry syrup or orange marmalade.
5. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for 30-45 seconds.
6. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
7. Garnish with a twist of citrus or a holiday-themed garnish, such as a cranberry or pecan.

Conclusion: Getting Creative with Christmas Old Fashioned Recipes

The holiday season is the perfect time to get creative with Christmas Old Fashioned recipes. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or just looking for a new and delicious twist on the classic Old Fashioned, there's something for everyone in this article. So why not try something new this holiday season and experiment with a Christmas Old Fashioned recipe? Your taste buds will thank you!