This Maple Old Fashioned is a refined take on the classic whiskey cocktail, accented with real maple syrup and a touch of fruit. The version below comes from the historic Fedora bar in Manhattan and highlights nutty, caramel notes balanced with bright citrus and cherry. It’s an ideal cocktail for cool evenings when you want something warm, round, and quietly elegant.
Why it works
The Maple Old Fashioned keeps the spirit of the original while adding a subtle maple sweetness that layers nicely with bourbon’s caramel and vanilla notes. Real maple syrup brings a gentle, complex sweetness that feels more rounded than simple syrup or granulated sugar.
Combining maple and bourbon creates a warm, lightly nutty flavor with hints of caramel. The bourbon provides structure and depth; the maple smooths and sweetens without overwhelming the spirit. A splash of cherry liqueur introduces a concentrated fruit note, while bitters and a squeezed orange peel lift the aromatics and give the drink a bright finish.
This recipe’s signature touch is toasted pecan bitters, which reinforce the maple’s nutty character. If pecan bitters aren’t available, aromatic bitters such as Angostura work well, and cherry or orange bitters are great alternatives if you want to emphasize the fruit or citrus qualities.
The recipe originates from The United States of Cocktails by Brian Bartels and was served at Fedora, a notable Manhattan bar. The result is a balanced, slightly sweet Old Fashioned that remains whiskey-forward and sophisticated.
Ingredients
Simple, high-quality ingredients make this cocktail sing. Use real maple syrup and a bourbon you enjoy drinking neat.
- Bourbon: Choose a solid mid-shelf bourbon with good flavor and balance. Options often recommended include Four Roses, Maker’s Mark, Jim Beam, or Buffalo Trace, but use whatever bourbon you like.
- Cherry liqueur: Cherry Heering is traditional, but any cherry liqueur will add rich fruit depth.
- Maple syrup: Use genuine maple syrup, preferably amber for more complexity. Avoid pancake syrups or overly processed substitutes.
- Bitters: Toasted pecan bitters are the original choice here. If you can’t find them, Angostura bitters are a reliable substitute. Cherry or orange bitters are also excellent for emphasizing fruit or citrus notes.
- Garnish: Luxardo-style cherries and an orange peel are classic; both add aroma and a pleasant finishing touch.
Garnish
Luxardo cherries are a favorite garnish: they’re richer and less cloying than standard maraschino cherries and add a pleasant syrupy note. Fresh cherries are a lovely seasonal option, and frozen cherries can work in a pinch.
An orange peel squeezed over the finished cocktail releases essential oils that complement both bourbon and maple. For extra depth, briefly torch or char the orange peel to create a burnt-orange aroma and a hint of bitterness that contrasts nicely with the maple’s sweetness.
Small visual touches—an elegant twist, a neatly skewered cherry, or a lightly toasted peel—elevate the drink and make it feel special without complicating preparation.
Related recipes
If you enjoy warm, boozy cocktails with a comforting character, try other recipes that pair well with bourbon and seasonal flavors, such as hot toddies, spiked hot chocolate, or nut-forward cocktails. These companions make for a pleasing lineup when entertaining or relaxing at home.
Recipe Card
Maple Old Fashioned
1 drink
4 minutes
4 minutes
A warming, balanced Maple Old Fashioned that’s elegantly simple and perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces bourbon
- ¼ ounce cherry liqueur
- ¼ ounce maple syrup (real maple)
- 3 dashes toasted pecan bitters (or Angostura / cherry / orange bitters)
Instructions
- Combine bourbon, cherry liqueur, and maple syrup with ice and stir (or gently shake) until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled rocks glass over a large ice cube or fresh ice.
- Add bitters on top and give the drink a gentle stir to integrate them.
- Garnish with cherries and an orange peel; squeeze the peel to release oils, then drop it in.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
Pecan bitters bring a nuanced nuttiness that complements maple and bourbon. If unavailable, Angostura, cherry, or orange bitters are fine substitutions depending on which flavor you want to highlight.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 156
Total Fat: 1g
Sodium: 2mg
Carbohydrates: 19g
Sugar: 18g
Nutrition estimates will vary by brand and exact measurements; calculate using your specific ingredients for precision.