Ah, the *Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail*! It’s the warm hug of the season in a glass. Every Thanksgiving, I whip up this classic cocktail to kick off the festivities. I remember the first time I shared it with my family; the kitchen was filled with laughter, and the rich aroma of bourbon mingled with the sweet scent of pumpkin pie. It’s the perfect drink to sip while reminiscing about cherished memories and making new ones. Trust me, this cocktail is a must-have for any Thanksgiving gathering—it adds a touch of elegance and comfort to the table!
Ingredients List
- 2 oz bourbon (I love using a high-quality bourbon for that smooth flavor)
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (you can make this easily by dissolving equal parts sugar and water)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters (this adds that classic aromatic touch)
- 1 orange twist (a beautiful garnish that enhances the aroma)
- 1 cherry (I prefer a maraschino cherry for that sweet burst)
How to Prepare the Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into making this delightful cocktail! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a tasty drink ready to impress your guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by grabbing a mixing glass—this is where the magic happens! Pour in the 2 oz of bourbon, followed by the 1/2 oz of simple syrup and the 2 dashes of Angostura bitters. The bitters really elevate the flavor, so don’t skip this step!
- Next, fill the mixing glass with ice. I usually fill it to the brim; it helps chill the cocktail perfectly. You want it nice and cold, so give it a good stir for about 20-30 seconds. You’ll see the mixture start to get frosty!
- Once it’s chilled, grab an old fashioned glass and place a large ice cube inside. Trust me, a large cube melts slower, keeping your drink from getting watered down too quickly.
- Now, strain the cocktail into your glass over the ice cube, letting that beautiful bourbon mixture flow in. It’s so satisfying to watch!
- Finish it off with the garnish: twist the orange peel over the drink to release those essential oils, then drop it in along with the cherry. Voilà! You’ve made a classic Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail that’s ready to be savored.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time—ready in just 5 minutes!
- Classic flavor that brings warmth and nostalgia
- Perfectly festive for Thanksgiving gatherings
- Simple ingredients that pack a punch
- Elegant enough to impress your guests
Tips for Success
To make the best Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail, start with high-quality bourbon—this really makes a difference in flavor! Don’t skimp on the simple syrup; if you like it sweeter, add a bit more to suit your taste. When stirring, be gentle but thorough; you want to chill the drink without diluting it too much. Also, using a large ice cube not only looks classy but helps maintain the cocktail’s potency. And don’t forget the garnish! That orange twist isn’t just for show; it adds a fragrant citrus aroma that elevates each sip. Cheers to a fabulous cocktail!
Variations
Feeling adventurous? There are so many fun ways to customize your Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail! For a fruity twist, try muddling in some fresh cranberries or adding a splash of orange liqueur. You can also swap out the simple syrup for maple syrup for a hint of fall flavor. Want a spicier kick? Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mix. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this delightful Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail contains approximately 150 calories, 4 grams of sugar, and 5 milligrams of sodium. As always, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy responsibly, and remember, this cocktail is all about savoring the moment!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftover ingredients, store the bourbon, simple syrup, and bitters separately in airtight containers at room temperature. However, once you’ve mixed your Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail, it’s best enjoyed fresh! So, try to make just what you need. If you must store a mixed cocktail, keep it in the fridge and consume it within a day for the best flavor. Remember, this drink is all about enjoying that fresh, vibrant taste!
FAQ Section
Can I use rye whiskey instead of bourbon?
Absolutely! Rye whiskey will give your Thanksgiving Old Fashioned a spicier kick, so feel free to switch it up based on your preference.
What if I don’t have simple syrup?
No worries! You can easily make your own by mixing equal parts sugar and water, heating until dissolved. Or, just use a little honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness.
Can I make this cocktail in larger batches?
Yes, you can! Just scale up the ingredients and mix them in a pitcher. Keep in mind to add the ice just before serving to keep it chilled.
How can I make my cocktail less sweet?
Simply reduce the amount of simple syrup you add. You can always start with less and taste as you go!
Is this cocktail gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free bourbon, your Thanksgiving Old Fashioned will be gluten-free and ready for everyone to enjoy.
Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail: 5 Steps to Bliss
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A classic cocktail for Thanksgiving gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 orange twist
- 1 cherry
Instructions
- In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, simple syrup, and bitters.
- Fill with ice and stir until chilled.
- Strain into an old fashioned glass with a large ice cube.
- Garnish with the orange twist and cherry.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by varying simple syrup amount.
- Use high-quality bourbon for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: thanksgiving old fashioned cocktail
