Easy Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

Last Updated on November 9, 2026 by Mr. B

If you want a classic drink that truly reflects its heritage, this Easy Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe is a must-try. Dating back to the 1880s, this simple and timeless blend requires just sugar (I prefer simple syrup), your favorite whiskey, and a dash of orange bitters.

This is a somewhat strong drink and if you’re into super sweet and fruity, this is not the drink for you. However, this classic cocktail has withstood the test of time and remains a popular drink recipe still enjoyed by many!

Choose a smooth, high-quality bourbon or rye to serve as the foundation of your drink.

Looking for more alcoholic drinks recipes? Try these:

Homemade Margarita Cocktail Drink (On The Rocks)

Tokyo Tea Cocktail Recipe

Negroni Cocktail Recipe | Alcoholic Drinks Recipes

Applejack Punch Drink Recipe

Orange Daiquiri Cocktail Recipe

Scroll down to the recipe card video where I show you how to make this Easy Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe!

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Easy Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe With Simple Syrup

Master the perfect pour tonight with this Easy Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe. Just grab your favorite whiskey, sugar, and bitters for a classic drink at home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 minute min

Cook Time 1 minute min

Total Time 2 minutes mins

Servings: 1

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Video

Ingredients

  

• 1 Sugar Cube or 1 TSP Simple Syrup to make simple syrup combine 1 tbsp water with 1 tbsp of sugar in microwave safe container. Heat 1 minute and stir to combine
• 2 Dashes Orange Bitters
• 2 OZ Bourbon Makers Mark whiskey was used for this recipe
• Orange Twist

Method

 

1. If using a sugar cube, muddle bitters and sugar cube in bottom of a chilled rocks glass
2. If using simple syrup, combine bitters and simple syrup and pour into chilled rocks glass
3. Add bourbon and stir gently
4. Add ice and stir gently about 30 seconds or until chilled
5. Garnish with orange twist

Video