Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when family gathers, stories are shared, and the aroma of delicious food fills the air. One of my favorite traditions is to kick off the festivities with a classic Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail. It’s like a warm hug in a glass—rich bourbon paired with a hint of sweetness from the sugar and a dash of bitters, all topped off with a vibrant orange peel. Trust me, it sets the perfect mood for the feast ahead! I remember the first time I made it; I was trying to impress my family, and it quickly became a staple at our Thanksgiving table. This cocktail has a festive twist that makes it feel special, elevating the classic recipe just in time for the holiday celebrations. Cheers to good times and great memories!
Ingredients List
- 2 oz high-quality bourbon
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 twist of orange peel
- 1 maraschino cherry
How to Prepare the Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail
Making a Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail is a breeze, and I’m here to walk you through it! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful drink ready in no time. The key is to take your time with each step; this cocktail deserves a little love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by placing the sugar cube in an old-fashioned glass. Add the two dashes of Angostura bitters right on top of that sugar cube. Now, here’s the fun part: muddle them together! Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to crush the sugar and bitters until they’re well combined. You want that sugar to dissolve a bit—it makes all the difference!
- Next, pour in 2 ounces of high-quality bourbon. Oh, the aroma of that bourbon is just heavenly! Fill the glass with ice. I love using one large ice cube because it melts slower and keeps your drink nice and chilly without watering it down too quickly.
- Now, grab a bar spoon and gently stir the mixture. Just a few swirls will do to combine all those delicious flavors—don’t rush it!
- Finally, it’s time for the garnish! Take a twist of orange peel and express the oils over the drink, then drop it in. Top it off with a maraschino cherry for that classic touch. And voila! Your Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail is ready to sip and savor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—ready in just 5 minutes!
- Classic flavors that bring nostalgia and warmth to your Thanksgiving celebration.
- Festive twist with the addition of orange peel and a cherry, making it a beautiful addition to your holiday table.
- Simple ingredients that you might already have on hand, so no last-minute shopping trips!
- Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a cozy drink after a long day of cooking.
- With its rich bourbon base, it pairs wonderfully with all those delicious Thanksgiving dishes.
- Easily adjustable sweetness and garnishes mean you can customize it to suit your taste.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail is absolutely perfect! First off, don’t skimp on the bourbon—choose a high-quality one that you enjoy sipping neat. Trust me, the flavor really shines through in this cocktail, and it makes a world of difference. My go-to is always something smooth and rich to complement those festive flavors.
When it comes to sweetness, feel free to adjust the sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet drink, just muddle a half sugar cube or even try a splash of maple syrup for a seasonal twist! And remember, always express the orange peel over the drink to release those lovely oils; it adds an aromatic touch that elevates the entire experience. So, take your time, enjoy the process, and sip with joy!
Variations
Now, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up your Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail! Here are a few ideas to get your creativity flowing:
- Different Bitters: While Angostura bitters are a classic choice, why not try using orange bitters or even a spiced bitters to give your cocktail a unique twist? Each one will add its own delightful flavor profile.
- Flavored Syrups: Instead of sugar, you could use a splash of maple syrup or even cinnamon syrup for that cozy fall vibe. It’s a game-changer!
- Seasonal Garnishes: Get festive with your garnishes! Try adding a cinnamon stick instead of a cherry, or even some fresh cranberries for a pop of color and flavor. It not only looks beautiful but also adds a nice touch of autumn.
- Apple Cider Infusion: For a truly Thanksgiving-inspired drink, you can add a splash of apple cider to your bourbon before mixing. It brings a warm, fruity note that’s perfect for the season.
- Herbal Touch: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme as a garnish. Just give them a gentle slap before adding them to release their essential oils. It adds an aromatic complexity that’s simply divine!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail. The possibilities are endless, and that’s the beauty of home mixology! Enjoy experimenting!
Nutritional Information
When you’re enjoying a Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail, it’s always nice to know what you’re sipping on! Here’s a quick glance at the estimated nutritional values for one cocktail:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 0mg
Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy your cocktail responsibly, and cheers to a festive celebration!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to pairing delicious bites with your Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail, I’ve got some scrumptious ideas that will elevate your sipping experience. Here are a few tasty options that complement the rich flavors of the cocktail perfectly:
- Cheese Platter: A selection of aged cheddar, creamy brie, and sharp blue cheese pairs beautifully with the bourbon’s warmth.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and a hint of salt provide a crunchy, savory snack that’s absolutely addictive!
- Charcuterie Board: Salty cured meats like prosciutto or salami add a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cocktail.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms with herbs and cheese make for a delicious bite that balances out the drink’s sweetness.
- Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These roasted veggies with a touch of maple syrup echo the holiday flavors and make a fantastic side.
These tasty treats will not only enhance your cocktail experience but also make your Thanksgiving gathering feel even more festive. Cheers to great pairings and wonderful company!
FAQ Section
Can I use rye whiskey instead of bourbon?
Absolutely! Rye whiskey will give your Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail a spicier kick which can be deliciously festive. Just remember, it’ll alter the flavor profile a bit, so choose what you love!
Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?
While I love the fresh taste of a freshly made Old Fashioned, you can pre-mix the bourbon and bitters, then store it in the fridge. Just add the sugar and ice right before serving to keep it refreshing!
What if I don’t have sugar cubes?
No worries! You can easily use simple syrup instead. Just mix about half a teaspoon in with the bitters before adding the bourbon. It’ll dissolve quickly, and you’ll still get that delicious sweetness!
How do I know if my cocktail is balanced?
A balanced cocktail should have a good mix of sweetness, bitterness, and the warmth of the bourbon. If it’s too sweet, add a dash more bitters; if it’s too strong, a splash of water can help mellow it out.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
Definitely! Try using a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative or a rich iced tea as a base, and follow the same muddling and garnishing steps. You’ll still get that cozy, festive feel without the alcohol!
Thanksgiving Old Fashioned Cocktail: 5 Steps to Blissful Sipping
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic cocktail with a festive twist for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 orange peel
- 1 maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Muddle the sugar cube and bitters in a glass.
- Add bourbon and ice.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with orange peel and cherry.
Notes
- Use high-quality bourbon for best flavor.
- Adjust sugar to taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: thanksgiving old fashioned cocktail
