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25+ Old-Fashioned Cocktails to Make at Home

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Any at-home bartender should master the classic bourbon cocktail, but why stop there? These Old-Fashioned cocktail recipes are the perfect riffs on the timeless classic.

A glass of amber-colored cocktail with an orange peel garnish sits on stacked wooden coasters, with bottles in the background.

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Your ultimate guide to Old-Fashioned Cocktails

I love a good Old-Fashioned cocktail. In fact, it’s been my mission to perfect the classic recipe. And it turns out, many of you love Old-Fashioneds too! It’s one of my most-requested drinks by followers who enjoy its versatility.

It makes sense that there’s such a fan club: The Old-Fashioned is a classic cocktail in every way. This spirit-forward cocktail is elegant and easy to make, making it at the top of my list for any at-home bartender.

Despite its easy recipe, this drink is endlessly customizable — this list alone is evidence of this, but feel free to get creative and craft your own!

Two glasses of cocktail with large ice cubes, garnished with an orange peel and cherry on a skewer. An orange slice and a gold jigger are in the background.

What you need to make Old-Fashioneds  

When it comes to mixing up an Old-Fashioned, the list of ingredients is pretty short — but that means each one is extra important.

  1. Spirits: Bourbon is the most popular choice for this sipper. Other variations on the classic use different spirits that provide a totally different flavor profile.
  2. Sugar: Syrups and sugar help to cut the strength of the alcohol and adds a touch of sweetness, but mixing sugar into a cold liquid is darn near impossible. Instead, I like to make my own simple syrup — it’s so easy and cost-effective.
  3. Bitters: Aromatic (like Angostura bitters) are the traditional choice, adding a little extra fragrance, flavor and complexity to an Old-Fashioned and making it more well-rounded in taste. You can experiment here too to decide what your favorite bitter is in your drink.
  4. Ice: Ice is an honorable mention. Bad ice can ruin the flavor of any drink, and too-small ice dilutes it too much. Large ice cubes have less surface area, so they melt at a slower rate, which is why they are so popular in this spirit-forward drink. Clear ice takes it up another level, as it doesn’t have as many imperfections and cracks, lasts even longer and looks beautiful.

To actually mix your drink, you’ll want your favorite rocks glass (double Old-Fashioned glasses * will work too). Some of these recipes call for a muddler, and a mixing glass * and bar spoon * will be helpful for all of them. Don’t forget an ice tray for those iconic big ice cubes!

old-fashioned essentials

*

Best whiskey

Bourbon is classic, but other types of whiskey work well. Each brand has a unique recipe and technique for aging, which gives each bourbon a unique flavor. For example, rye whiskey gives your drink a drier, spicier taste. 

As usual, my advice is to buy the best brand(s) you can afford, keeping in mind your personal preferences. Taste test them to find your favorite.

decorative icon of a rocks glass.

Don’t miss Bourbon 101 where you can learn more about my favorite brands and bottles to buy.

Bourbon 101
A glass with an amber-colored drink and an ice cube, garnished with a dark cherry on a skewer, next to a spoon and a small dish.

Old-Fashioned variations

Building on the basic recipe to create a totally new drink is easy — probably one of the reasons Old-Fashioneds are so well-loved.

Flavored syrups or fruit can give you a desired flavor, while using a different spirit changes things up as well. These simple swaps keep the ease of the drink, while giving you a totally different result.

For a drink without the booze, an Old-Fashioned mocktail is the perfect solution. You can opt for a low-ABV version or skip the alcohol entirely. Fortunately, you keep the depth of the drink and can feel like you’re imbibing, which is perfect for when you’re the designated driver or simply don’t feel like drinking.

If you need to serve a crowd, Old-Fashioned syrup is the answer. With a little time up-front (only ten minutes), you have a big batch for simple sipping. Once you’ve made your syrup, all you have to do to make your sipper is add some of this pre-made, Old-Fashioned mix to a glass with your ice cube, then add your favorite whiskey and garnishes. 

FAQ

Why do you use a large ice cube in an old-fashioned?

The large ice cube is more than a showpiece, the large surface area melts slower and doesn’t dilute your drink as quickly. It’s not a must-have, but it is a nice touch!

Do you have to muddle an old-fashioned?

No, not always! Sometimes it’s nice to muddle your drink in order to express juices from fruit, but you don’t have to. Flavored syrups can take the place of this step, too.

Do you have to make an old-fashioned in a mixing glass?

Definitely not. It’s nice if you are making a few at once, but you can totally make it in the glass if you prefer.

What’s the garnish for an old-fashioned?

A classic Old-Fashioned includes ice and a cherry or orange zest. This is another place you can make the drink your own, so feel free to use other fruits or zests to compliment the flavors of your sipper.

The best Old-Fashioned Recipes

Grab your favorite bottle and give one of these Old-Fashioneds a try!

Spirit-Forward Old-Fashioneds

1
A glass of Old Fashioned cocktail with an orange peel and cherry garnish, placed on a wooden coaster. A decorative stirrer is in the glass. A small bowl of cherries is nearby.
Classic Old-Fashioned
Keep it timeless with the Classic Old-Fashioned — just bourbon, bitters and sugar. A high-proof bourbon like Wild Turkey 101 or Old Forester makes this one shine.
GET THE RECIPE
2
Two tequila old fashioned cocktails with a gold rimmed glass, ice, and lime.
Tequila Old-Fashioned
Swap in reposado or añejo tequila for an earthy, agave-rich Tequila Old-Fashioned with a smooth, lightly smoky finish. A few dashes of orange or chocolate bitters make it pop.
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3
A glass of whiskey with ice and an orange peel garnish sits on stacked wooden coasters against a white background.
Rum Old-Fashioned
Rich and velvety, the Aged Rum Old-Fashioned adds tropical warmth to this classic drink. Go for a molasses-forward rum like El Dorado 12 or Diplomatico.
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4
Two ribbed glasses of amber liquid with skewered cherries on a silver tray.
Brandy Old-Fashioned
A Midwest favorite, the Brandy Old-Fashioned is slightly sweet with soft fruit notes. Use Korbel or a VSOP brandy and garnish with cherries or citrus.
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5
A glass of a Scotch cocktail with ice and a spoon.
Scotch Old-Fashioned
Bold and smoky, the Scotch Old-Fashioned brings out peaty depth and malty sweetness. Use a blended scotch for balance or go full Islay for drama.
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6
A glass with ice and a bottle of gin, garnished with Oaxaca Old-Fashioned Cocktail.
Oaxaca Old-Fashioned with Mezcal
Earthy, smoky and unforgettable, the Oaxaca Old-Fashioned is all about layered flavor. Choose a well-balanced mezcal like Del Maguey Vida for a smooth finish.
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7
A classic whiskey cocktail sits beside wooden coasters and herb sprigs.
Smoked Old-Fashioned
Add theatrical flair with a Smoked Old-Fashioned — think rich bourbon and a hit of smoke from wood chips or a smoked glass. It's best with a spicy bourbon like Bulleit or Knob Creek.
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8
An old-fashioned cocktail made with Irish whiskey sits alongside a gold cocktail jigger resting on a green dish towel and a stack of gold coasters.
Irish Old-Fashioned
Light and approachable, the Irish Old-Fashioned swaps in smooth Irish whiskey like Jameson or Redbreast. A touch of honey or citrus bitters softens the edges.
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Fruity Old-Fashioneds

9
A glass with geometric patterns contains an amber-colored drink and an ice sphere, placed on a woven coaster.
Banana Old-Fashioned
The Banana Old-Fashioned is subtle, silky and a little tropical thanks to a homemade spiced banana syrup. Try it with a mellow bourbon like Maker’s Mark.
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10
Clear glass with a textured pattern, containing an old fashioned cocktail made with a large ice cube and an orange peel garnish. A peach and a wooden board with peach slices are beside the glass.
Peach Old-Fashioned
Juicy peach syrup and bitters turn this into a summery sipper. Use a wheated bourbon or something soft and floral like Basil Hayden to complement the fruity vibes in this Peach Old-Fashioned.
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11
A glass of a cocktail with figs and a gold spoon.
Fig Old-Fashioned
The Fig Old-Fashioned is rich and jammy with deep, dried fruit flavor. It’s best with a bold bourbon like Woodford Reserve or even a touch of port.
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12
A seasonal fall old-fashioned is flanked by cinnamon sticks and red apples
Apple Pie Old-Fashioned
Cozy and nostalgic, the Apple Pie Old-Fashioned blends apple syrup, warm spices and smooth bourbon. A cinnamon stick garnish seals the deal.
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13
a peanut butter jelly sandwich on a cocktail
Peanut Butter and Jelly Old-Fashioned
Playful and grown-up, this PB&J Old-Fashioned uses peanut butter whiskey and berry syrup or liqueur. Try it with Skrewball and a touch of Angostura.
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14
A glass of light orange cocktail with a large round ice cube and a grapefruit twist, placed next to a spoon and a halved grapefruit.
cakenknife.com
Grapefruit Old-Fashioned
Light and citrusy, this Grapefruit Old-Fashioned adds bright grapefruit to the classic formula. Use a soft, slightly sweet bourbon like Maker’s Mark for a refreshing summer sip.
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15
A glass of amber-colored cocktail on a wooden coaster, garnished with a pineapple wedge on a cocktail pick.
mittengirl.com
Pineapple Old-Fashioned
Pineapple syrup adds tropical sweetness to this fruity spin on the classic. It pairs beautifully with smoky bourbon like Elijah Craig or even a touch of aged rum for a tiki twist.
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Sweet and Spiced Old-Fashioneds

16
A textured glass filled with an orange beverage, garnished with a sprig of thyme. Two similar glasses are blurred in the background.
Honey Old-Fashioned
Delicate and floral, this Honey Old-Fashioned softens bourbon’s edge with smooth sweetness. Use a lighter bourbon or even rye for contrast.
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17
A glass of whiskey with ice sits on a white surface alongside a decanter, a jigger, a jar with a golden spoon, and a green-and-white cloth.
Maple Old-Fashioned
The Maple Old-Fashioned is rich, nutty and warming — perfect for fall or even breakfast for dinner. Use a dark, barrel-aged maple syrup and a bold bourbon like Elijah Craig.
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18
Closeup of a chocolate old-fashioned cocktail in a rocks glass with chocolate rim and chocolate out of focus in the background
Chocolate Old-Fashioned
Bittersweet and luxurious, the Chocolate Old-Fashioned pairs cocoa bitters or syrup with a robust bourbon. It’s an elegant dessert drink with a boozy edge.
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19
s'mores old-fashioned cocktail garnished with toasted marshmallows and a partial graham cracker rim with unlit matches in foreground and graham crackers in background
S’mores Old-Fashioned
A little whimsical, this S’mores Old-Fashioned uses toasted marshmallow syrup, chocolate bitters and a graham cracker rim. Go for a high-proof bourbon to cut through the sweetness.
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20
a coffee old-fashioned on a blue plate with coffee beans
Coffee Old-Fashioned
The Coffee Old-Fashioned blends cold brew or coffee liqueur with bourbon for a bold, smooth drink. Great with rye or a rich bourbon like Buffalo Trace.
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21
A Chai Old Fashioned Cocktail is the fall and winter nightcap of your dreams. Made with chai tea ice cubes, the chai spices infuse slowly as the ice melts into the whiskey, letting more flavor seep in with every sip. (via feastandwest.com)
Chai Old-Fashioned
Warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom and clove turn this into a spiced, comforting sipper. Try it with chai syrup and a spice-forward bourbon.
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22
The Sparkling Cranberry Vanilla Old-Fashioned made with Cranberry DRY Sparkling soda is a stunning, sweeter, seasonal take on the classic whiskey cocktail. Serve up one of these drinks — garnished with sugared cranberries, of course — to your Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's guests for a festive addition to any holiday party. (via feastandwest.com)
Cranberry Vanilla Old-Fashioned
Tart cranberry and sweet vanilla balance beautifully in this festive drink. It works well with bourbon or rye and a splash of cranberry bitters.
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23
a peanut butter old-fashioned on a white background with a blue plate of peanut butter cup candies in the background
Chocolate Peanut Butter Old-Fashioned
Like dessert in a glass, the Chocolate Peanut Butter Old-Fashioned combines sweet, nutty and boozy notes. Try peanut butter whiskey with chocolate bitters for a twist that tastes like a peanut butter cup.
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24
A glass of brown old-fashioned-cocktail with a large ice cube sits on a blue patterned cloth, surrounded by pecans, a bowl of brown sugar, and a canned beverage in the background.
thespeckledpalate.com
Toasted Pecan Old-Fashioned
Infused pecan whiskey brings deep, nutty warmth to the Toasted Pecan Old-Fashioned — perfect for cool nights. Use a high-proof bourbon and let the flavors develop over a few days for the best result.
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Holiday Old-Fashioneds

25
A Christmas Old-Fashioned cocktail in a glass decorated with star patterns, garnished with two cherries and a slice of fruit on a skewer, placed on a white surface with greenery and cookies nearby.
Christmas Old-Fashioned
This holiday version layers warm gingerbread spices, orange and a hint of clove over rich bourbon. Garnish this Christmas Old-Fashioned with a cinnamon stick or star anise for that festive aroma.
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26
two pie pumpkins with a pumpkin spice old-fashioned
Pumpkin Spice Old-Fashioned
Pumpkin spice syrup meets bourbon in this fall-forward drink. Use a cinnamon or clove bitters and a bold bourbon to balance the sweetness of this Pumpkin Spice Old-Fashioned.
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27
a leftover cranberry sauce old-fashioned with a burning piece of rosemary
Cranberry Sauce Old-Fashioned
Make use of leftover Thanksgiving cranberry sauce for this tangy, slightly sweet version. Rye whiskey adds a spicy edge that plays well with the tart fruit in this Cranberry Sauce Old-Fashioned.
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28
A cocktail in a glass with a large round ice cube and a pine sprig garnish, inspired by old-fashioned-cocktails, sits on a wooden surface with a copper jigger and another pine sprig in the background.
gastronomblog.com
Pine Old-Fashioned
Woodsy and unexpected, the Pine Old-Fashioned brings a wintry twist with pine syrup layered over bourbon or rye. Try it with a bold whiskey like Rittenhouse Rye to balance the botanical flavor.
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About Susannah

Susannah Brinkley Henry is the founder of Feast + West, a cocktail blog featuring creative, budget-friendly drinks and hosting ideas. A graphic designer with bartending school training, she shares cocktails, mocktails, appetizers and desserts for easy, stylish entertaining. Her work has been featured by Southern Living, Buzzfeed, The Huffington Post and Mashable, and she was a finalist in the Saveur Blog Awards. Susannah is also a publisher on MSN and has appeared on local news segments sharing seasonal drinks. She lives in Charlotte, N.C., where she brings Southern charm and global inspiration to every pour. Read more.

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