A Bob’s Old Fashioned is the kind of cocktail that never goes out of style. It’s smooth, slightly sweet, and full of warm bourbon flavor with just a hint of citrus. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or hosting friends for a cozy evening in, this drink is always a crowd-pleaser.
Bob's Old Fashioned
I’ve made this drink countless times-especially on cool nights when I want something simple but satisfying. Here’s how to make it just right, with a few tricks I’ve picked up along the way.
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Rocks glass (or a short tumbler)
Ingredients
– 1 sugar cube (or ½ tsp simple syrup)
– 3 dashes Angostura bitters
– 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon
– Ice cubes
– 1 orange peel (for garnish)
– 1 maraschino cherry (optional)
– Splash of club soda (optional)
Method
- Place the sugar cube in the bottom of a rocks glass. Add the bitters right on top. Let it sit for a few seconds so the sugar starts to soak up the flavor.
- Muddle the sugar and bitters together until the sugar breaks down a bit. If you’re using simple syrup, just stir it in with the bitters.
- Add a few ice cubes-enough to fill the glass about halfway.
- Pour in the bourbon. Give everything a gentle stir for about 20-30 seconds. You want the sugar to dissolve and the drink to chill without getting too watery.
- Twist the orange peel over the drink to release the oils, then drop it in. Add a maraschino cherry if you like a little extra sweetness.
- Optional: Add a small splash of club soda if you want a bit of fizz. Totally up to you-some folks swear by it, others skip it.
Tips & Tricks
– Fresh ice is key. Old ice can water down your drink and dull the flavor.
– Don’t skip the orange peel. It’s not just for looks-the oils give the drink a bright citrus aroma that really brings it to life.
– Stir gently, not vigorously. You’re blending, not shaking. Too much movement can melt the ice too fast and make the drink too weak.
– I’ve found that using maple syrup instead of sugar adds a cozy, earthy sweetness-especially nice during the colder months.
Make-Ahead Notes
Want to serve these at a party? You can mix a batch of the bourbon, bitters, and sweetener ahead of time (scale up as needed). Keep it in the fridge until guests arrive. When it’s time to serve, just pour over ice, garnish, and you’re good to go.
Storage
If you’ve pre-mixed a batch, store it in a sealed jar or bottle in the fridge for up to 3 days. Don’t add ice or garnish until you’re ready to serve.
Flavor Variations
Want to change it up? Here are a few ways to play with the flavor:
– Rye whiskey: Swapping bourbon for rye gives the drink a bit more spice and bite.
– Maple syrup: Use ½ tsp in place of the sugar cube for a deeper, richer sweetness.
– Orange or chocolate bitters: Try different bitters for a subtle twist in flavor.
– Spiced version: Add a thin slice of fresh ginger or a cinnamon stick for a cozy kick.
My Go-To Winter Twist
I thought I’d share one of my favorite cold-weather versions of this cocktail:
Bob’s Winter Old Fashioned
– Muddle a thin apple slice with the sugar and bitters
– Add 2 oz bourbon, stir with ice
– Garnish with a cinnamon stick and orange peel
It’s like fall and winter in a glass-warm, smooth, and just the right amount of sweet.
Serving Suggestions
A Bob’s Old Fashioned pairs beautifully with:
– Grilled steak: The bold bourbon flavor stands up to hearty meats.
– Dark chocolate: A square of good-quality dark chocolate brings out the drink’s rich notes.
– Aged cheese: Try sharp cheddar or gouda for a savory contrast.
FAQs
Can I use something other than a sugar cube?
Yes! Simple syrup, maple syrup, or even honey all work. Just use about ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste.
Is club soda necessary?
Not at all-it’s optional. Some folks like the fizz, others prefer it without.
What if I don’t have Angostura bitters?
Try orange bitters or another aromatic bitters. The flavor will change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious.
Can I make it non-alcoholic?
Absolutely. Use a non-alcoholic whiskey or strong black tea with a splash of apple juice. Still garnish with orange and cherry for the full experience.
What’s the best bourbon to use?
Go with one you enjoy sipping. A mid-range bourbon with a smooth, slightly sweet finish works great. Avoid anything too smoky or peaty-it can overpower the drink.
Final Thoughts
A Bob’s Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail-it’s a moment of calm in a glass. It’s simple, classic, and endlessly customizable. Once you’ve made it a few times, you’ll find your own perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and bold.
Whether it’s your first time mixing one or your hundredth, this recipe is a keeper. Cheers!
