This maple old fashioned is a seasonal twist on the classic bourbon cocktail. It’s everything you love about a traditional old fashioned with a hint of maple flavor. It’s an easy recipe, and it takes just 5 minutes to make!
If you love the spirit-forward bite of a classic old fashioned , this maple version is one you’ll appreciate. I swap the usual sugar or simple syrup for real maple syrup, which adds a subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the drink. It’s gently bitter, slightly spicy, and beautifully balanced with just a hint of maple flavor.
This maple old fashioned couldn’t be easier to make. I stir good-quality bourbon with pure maple syrup and a few dashes of Angostura bitters right in a rocks glass, then add a large ice cube. The bourbon’s natural caramel and vanilla notes pair perfectly with the maple, while the bitters bring a touch of spice and complexity.
I finish it with an orange peel for aroma and, sometimes, a maraschino cherry. It’s a simple, well-balanced cocktail that feels especially fitting for fall dinner parties, holidays, or a cozy night by the fire—easy to make, but still a little special.
A few questions answered
Can I use small ice cubes instead of one large one? While I prefer a large ice cube because it melts more slowly and doesn’t dilute the drink, you can use 3-4 regular ice cubes instead.
Why do I have to add the ice last? I find that it’s tricky to properly mix the maple syrup into the bourbon when there’s a large ice cube in the glass, which is why I add it last.
Can I make it in advance? If you’re throwing a party and want to save time, you can stir together the bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters in a pitcher. Then, when you’re ready to serve, simply pour it over ice and garnish. Many times, I’ve brought a premixed jar to a party, too!
Can I use rye instead of bourbon? Yes! Rye is slightly less sweet than bourbon but still works well in this classic cocktail.
Maple Old Fashioned Recipe
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Ingredients
- ▢ 2 ounces bourbon
- ▢ ¼ ounce maple syrup
- ▢ 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- ▢ Orange peel and maraschino cherry (to garnish)
Instructions
- Add the bourbon, maple syrup, and Angostura bitters to a rocks glass and stir. 2 ounces bourbon, ¼ ounce maple syrup, 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Carefully drop in a single large ice cube. Garnish with a strip of orange peel and a maraschino cherry.
Notes
Nutrition
We have thoroughly tested this recipe for accuracy. However, individual results may vary. See our full recipe disclosure here .
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Maple Old Fashioned Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ounces bourbon
- ¼ ounce maple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel and maraschino cherry , to garnish
Instructions
- Add the bourbon, maple syrup, and Angostura bitters to a rocks glass and stir. 2 ounces bourbon, ¼ ounce maple syrup, 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Carefully drop in a single large ice cube. Garnish with a strip of orange peel and a maraschino cherry.
