Best Old Fashioned Recipes: 10 Delicious Twists on a Classic Cocktail

The Old Fashioned is one of those cocktails that just feels right no matter the season.

I remember the first Old Fashioned I ever had. I was at a cozy little steakhouse in Savannah with my husband. We were sitting at the bar, waiting for our table, and the bartender handed me a drink made with bourbon, a sugar cube, and just a kiss of bitters.

It was strong, sweet, citrusy, and smooth all at once.

I was hooked.

Ever since then, I’ve had a soft spot for Old Fashioneds, but over the years I’ve learned that there’s more than one way to enjoy this timeless drink. From regional traditions like the Wisconsin-style version to smoky mezcal or even maple-spiked options, each one has its own charm.

I’ve officially tried 10 incredible Old Fashioned recipes here on ThisGalCooks, and so today, I’m rounding up all 10 into one post, so you can pick your next experiment and decide which of these Old Fashioned recipes you consider to be the best.

What Makes An Old Fashioned One Of The Best Cocktails Around?

A truly great Old Fashioned depends on balance. The base spirit, bitters, sweetener, and garnish all work together to enhance each sip without overpowering the drink. The original version is made with bourbon or rye, sugar, Angostura bitters, and an orange twist. It’s served over ice in a lowball glass, often with a cherry.

The quality of your ingredients really shines in this simple cocktail. Using a high-quality whiskey or creative sweetener, like maple syrup or brown sugar, can shift the flavor dramatically. Bitters and garnishes add even more personality. Some of the recipes below even switch out the spirit entirely, using tequila, brandy, or rum instead.

The best Old Fashioned recipe for you will depend on your taste preferences, but each of these has something unique and flavorful to offer.

The 10 Best Old Fashioned Recipes You Need To Try

This cocktail may be simple at its core, but it’s endlessly adaptable, and frankly, that’s where the fun begins. Whether you lean toward smoky, sweet, spiced, or citrusy, these ten Old Fashioned recipes offer something for every kind of cocktail lover.

Each one brings its own personality to the table, and trying them all is half the fun.

1. Classic Old Fashioned

This is the cocktail that started it all. The Classic Old Fashioned uses bourbon, Angostura bitters, a sugar cube, and an orange twist. No fluff, no filler. It’s boozy and slightly sweet with a warm spice from the bitters and a bright citrus finish. If you’re new to making Old Fashioneds at home, this is the best place to start.

Get the full Classic Old Fashioned recipe here.

2. Bourbon Old Fashioned

The bourbon version stays true to the original, but it highlights the sweeter, richer notes of bourbon compared to rye. It’s smooth, slightly vanilla-forward, and easy to sip. You’ll still use bitters and a sugar cube or simple syrup, but the depth of the bourbon makes this one especially good for fall or cozy nights.

The bourbon Old Fashioned is a fan favorite around here. It’s great for entertaining and easy to batch if you’re hosting a group.

Get the full Bourbon Old Fashioned recipe here.

3. Tequila Old Fashioned

This recipe swaps whiskey for Añejo tequila, which brings warm vanilla and oak notes with a peppery edge. It’s a smooth drink with a bit more brightness, especially when paired with orange bitters or a cinnamon-spiced syrup.

The flavor profile is rich and balanced but leans just a little sunnier and lighter. It’s a good pick if you love margaritas but want something more spirit-forward.

Get the full Tequila Old Fashioned recipe here.

4. Mezcal Old Fashioned

Mezcal gives this drink a whole different character. It’s smoky, earthy, and complex. If you’ve never had mezcal before, think of it as tequila’s moodier cousin. In this cocktail, mezcal pairs beautifully with agave syrup and mole or chocolate bitters.

I like to serve this one on cool nights with a side of dark chocolate. It’s bold and smoky but still smooth.

Get the full Mezcal Old Fashioned recipe here.

5. Wisconsin Old Fashioned

The Wisconsin Old Fashioned is a category all its own. Instead of whiskey, it uses brandy. And instead of bitters and sugar, it’s built with muddled fruit and a splash of soda, like 7UP or Sprite. It’s sweeter, more playful, and a staple at supper clubs across the Midwest.

If you like your cocktails more fruity and less boozy, this one’s for you. It’s also a great conversation starter at parties.

Get the full Wisconsin Old Fashioned recipe here.

6. Brandy Old Fashioned

This take leans into the smooth, mellow flavor of brandy but sticks a bit closer to the classic recipe format. We use spiced orange syrup instead of muddled fruit or soda, which adds depth and a warm citrus note.

Brandy gives this version a rounder, almost caramel-like finish. It’s especially nice with a cherry garnish and a big cube of ice.

Get the full Brandy Old Fashioned recipe here.

7. Maple Old Fashioned

Using real maple syrup instead of sugar gives this Old Fashioned a rich, earthy sweetness that’s perfect for fall. It pairs beautifully with bourbon or rye and plays nicely with both classic and orange bitters.

This one tastes like sitting by a fire in a cozy sweater. I like to add a flamed orange peel to bring out a bit of smokiness.

Get the full Maple Old Fashioned recipe here.

8. Rum Old Fashioned

If you haven’t tried an Old Fashioned made with dark rum, you’re in for a treat. This version swaps whiskey for a full-bodied aged rum, giving it a slightly tropical edge. The flavor is smooth, rich, and just a little spicy.

You can use a brown sugar syrup and classic bitters or even try it with a touch of allspice dram. It’s a great warm-weather take on a wintery classic.

Get the full Rum Old Fashioned recipe here.

9. Smoked Old Fashioned

This recipe is all about presentation and depth. You start with the classic build, then use a smoking gun or smoked glass to infuse the drink with a gentle campfire aroma. It makes the cocktail feel luxurious and dramatic.

It’s a favorite for date nights or when you want to make an impression. The smoke complements bourbon or rye beautifully.

Get the full Smoked Old Fashioned recipe here.

1o. Oaxaca Old Fashioned

The Oaxaca Old Fashioned blends mezcal and tequila with agave and mole bitters. It’s rich, smoky, slightly sweet, and layered with complexity. The combination of spirits brings balance and character, with a finish that lingers in the best way.

If you want to ease into mezcal or try something with a Mexican twist, this one hits all the right notes.

Get the full Oaxaca Old Fashioned recipe here.

The Best Cherries for an Old Fashioned

Choosing the right cherry can make a big difference in your cocktail’s final flavor and presentation. While the bright red maraschino cherries you see at ice cream shops are widely available, they’re overly sweet and can taste artificial. For an Old Fashioned, quality is key.

Here are a few of my go-to options:

• Luxardo cherries: Deep red, syrupy, and intensely flavorful. They’re the gold standard.
• Amarena cherries: Italian and slightly more tart, these have a thicker syrup and bold flavor.
• Homemade bourbon-soaked cherries: If you like DIY projects, you can soak fresh cherries in bourbon and simple syrup.

Each of these options adds something special to your cocktail. They look beautiful, taste amazing, and elevate the entire drink. Store them in the fridge and use a bar spoon to drizzle a little syrup into the glass if you like extra sweetness.

The Best Bitters for an Old Fashioned

Bitters are a small but mighty part of this cocktail. They add structure and complexity and help balance the sweetness. The classic choice is Angostura, but there are plenty of ways to tailor your bitters to your chosen spirit.

A few favorites to try:

• Angostura bitters: Spicy and aromatic, a must-have for the classic.
• Orange bitters: Bright and citrusy, these pair well with bourbon or tequila.
• Mole or chocolate bitters: Deep and earthy, perfect for mezcal or rum-based versions.
• Cherry or spiced bitters: Great with brandy, especially for Wisconsin-style cocktails.

Keep in mind that bitters are concentrated, so a few dashes go a long way. Store them in a cool, dark place, and experiment by mixing a few types to find your perfect combo.

Tips for Serving the Perfect Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is as much about the presentation as it is the flavor. It’s a simple drink on paper, but when you serve it with care, it becomes something that feels elegant and intentional. A few thoughtful details can elevate the entire experience and turn your cocktail into a moment worth savoring.

1. Use a lowball glass.

This glass, also called a rocks glass or Old Fashioned glass, is designed specifically for drinks like this. It’s short and sturdy, with a solid base that feels balanced in your hand. The wide mouth isn’t just for looks—it makes room for muddling, stirring, and that all-important large ice cube. There’s a reason this glass has stood the test of time.

2. Use a large ice cube or sphere.

One big cube melts slower than a handful of smaller ones, which keeps your drink cold without watering it down too fast. It also just looks beautiful in the glass, especially with the golden color of the spirit shining through. If you want your Old Fashioned to taste great from the first sip to the last, this little upgrade goes a long way.

3. Chill your glass.

It’s a small step that makes a big difference. Just pop the glass in the freezer for five to ten minutes while you prep your ingredients. A chilled glass keeps your drink colder for longer and gives it a crisp, clean feel that makes every sip more refreshing.

4. Express your citrus peel.

This is where the aroma comes in. Use a fresh strip of orange peel, and gently twist it over the drink to release the essential oils. Then run it along the rim before dropping it in. It adds a fragrant burst right as you take a sip and brings out the subtle citrus notes in the bitters or any orange syrup you’ve used.

5. Use metal or wood garnish picks.

Don’t use plastic. Get a reusable metal skewer or a simple wooden cocktail stick. It looks more polished, feels more intentional, and adds a nice little finishing touch to your presentation. Plus, it’s better for the environment and just feels more grown-up.

Whether you’re making one drink or prepping a batch for a party, taking the time to serve it well makes all the difference. Your guests will notice, even if they can’t quite put their finger on why the drink feels extra special. It’s those little touches that turn a simple cocktail into something memorable.

FAQs About the Best Old Fashioned Recipes

Here are some straightforward answers to the most common questions I receive about this Old Fashioned recipe roundup.

What is the best alcohol to use in an Old Fashioned?
Bourbon and rye whiskey are traditional choices, with bourbon being smoother and rye offering a spicier bite. That said, some of the best Old Fashioned recipes use tequila, brandy, rum, or mezcal for a unique twist.

What is the best sugar option for an Old Fashioned?
A classic Old Fashioned uses a sugar cube, but some of the best variations swap in maple syrup, brown sugar syrup, or spiced orange syrup for extra depth.

What are the best bitters for an Old Fashioned?
Angostura is the classic, but orange bitters, mole bitters, and cherry bitters are excellent for creative spins. Choose your bitters based on your base spirit and any additional flavor notes.

What’s the best cherry for an Old Fashioned garnish?
Luxardo cherries are widely considered the best. Amarena cherries are another great option, and homemade bourbon-soaked cherries can be a standout touch.

What’s the best glass to serve an Old Fashioned in?
Always use a lowball or rocks glass. These glasses have a wide mouth and sturdy base, perfect for muddling and serving over a large ice cube.

What’s the best way to mix an Old Fashioned?
Stir gently with a bar spoon over ice. Avoid shaking, as this will over-dilute and cloud the drink.

What’s the best way to add citrus to an Old Fashioned?
Use a peel, not a wedge. Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink, then drop it in for aroma and garnish.

What’s the best ice for an Old Fashioned?
Use a single large ice cube or sphere. It melts slowly and keeps the drink cold without watering it down too fast.

What’s the best way to batch Old Fashioneds for a party?
Mix the spirit, sweetener, and bitters in a pitcher. Keep the citrus peels and ice separate until serving. This keeps everything fresh and easy to serve.

What’s the best Old Fashioned variation for beginners?
Start with the classic, then try the bourbon or maple versions. They’re approachable, easy to make, and crowd-pleasers.