Cider Old Fashioned: Bourbon Meets Apple & Maple
A fall-ready twist on the Old Fashioned, this Cider Old Fashioned blends bourbon’s caramel warmth with crisp apple cider and a touch of maple syrup. Balanced, aromatic, and comforting — perfect for sweater weather sipping.
The Autumn Take on a Classic
Warm, cozy, and spirit-forward, the Cider Old Fashioned updates a timeless recipe with apple cider and maple syrup for a seasonal touch. It’s the ideal cocktail for crisp evenings and easy entertaining.
Background
The Old Fashioned traces back to the early 1800s, defined by whiskey, sugar, water, and bitters. This autumn version keeps that simplicity but replaces sugar with maple syrup and adds apple cider — creating a smooth, spiced flavor that celebrates fall.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Bourbon – the rich, oaky base that anchors the drink.
- Apple Cider – adds bright sweetness and seasonal depth.
- Angostura Bitters – brings herbal balance and complexity.
- Maple Syrup (¼ oz) – a natural sweetener with an earthy note.
- Orange Peel + Cinnamon Stick – aromatic garnishes that complete the experience.
Equipment
- Rocks glass
- Bar spoon
- Jigger
- Large ice cube
Why You’ll Love It
Cozy Complexity in a Glass
It drinks like autumn — caramel, spice, and citrus mingling with mellow whiskey warmth. Simple enough for a weeknight, elegant enough for guests.
Substitutions & Variations
- Base Spirit Swap: Use rye for extra spice or dark rum for added sweetness.
- Cider Choice: Fresh or spiced cider both work; skip sweetened commercial juice.
- Sweetener Alternative: Honey or agave if maple isn’t on hand.
- Garnish Ideas: Star anise or rosemary sprig add aromatic flair.
Helpful Tips
- Ice Matters: One large cube chills slowly without watering down your drink.
- Batch Option: Combine bourbon, cider, and syrup in advance; add bitters and garnish to order.
- Food Pairing: Try with cheese boards, roasted nuts, or apple desserts.
Cider Old Fashioned Recipe
Type of Glass
Rocks Glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz.
- 1 oz.
- 2-3 dashes
- 1/4 oz.
Directions
- In a rocks glass, combine Bourbon, Apple Cider, Maple Syrup, and Angostura Bitters.
- Add a large ice cube and stir for about 20 seconds until well chilled and properly diluted.
- Garnish with an Orange Peel and a Cinnamon Stick.
The Cider Old Fashioned captures everything we love about fall in one glass — bourbon richness, apple brightness, and maple warmth. It’s simple, seasonal, and endlessly repeatable.
