Gingerbread Old Fashioned: A Festive Twist on a Timeless Classic
The Gingerbread Old Fashioned is a cozy, spiced twist on the classic bourbon cocktail, featuring homemade gingerbread syrup for a festive holiday treat.
The Gingerbread Old Fashioned is the perfect holiday cocktail, blending the bold flavors of bourbon with the warm, spiced sweetness of gingerbread. This festive take on the classic Old Fashioned elevates any holiday gathering with its comforting aromas of cinnamon, cloves, and molasses. Whether you're hosting a Christmas party or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, this cocktail is guaranteed to bring a bit of holiday magic to your glass.
Why make this recipe? It’s a sophisticated drink with a seasonal twist that’s simple to prepare and sure to impress. The homemade gingerbread simple syrup is the star of the show, adding depth and sweetness while allowing you to control the flavors. Plus, this recipe can easily be scaled for parties, making it a versatile addition to your holiday menu.
Tips and Tricks:
Use Quality Bourbon: A mid-range bourbon like Makers Mark or Buffalo Trace works perfectly, balancing the cocktail’s flavors without overpowering them.
Prep Ahead: The gingerbread simple syrup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to several weeks.
Keep It Cool: Use one large ice cube to chill the drink without diluting it too much.
Adjust Sweetness: The Old Fashioned is traditionally not very sweet, so start with a small amount of syrup and adjust to your taste.
Commonly Asked Questions:
Can I make this cocktail for a crowd? Yes! Multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher for easy serving.
Can I use a pre-made gingerbread syrup? While homemade syrup is best for flavor, pre-made can work in a pinch.
What other garnishes can I use? Add a sprig of rosemary or a few candied ginger pieces for extra flair.
A Little History:
The Old Fashioned dates back to the early 19th century and is considered one of the first true cocktails. Adding a holiday twist with gingerbread spices modernizes this timeless drink while paying homage to its history. Gingerbread itself has roots in medieval Europe and has become synonymous with Christmas, making it a perfect match for this festive cocktail.
The Gingerbread Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail—it’s a holiday experience in a glass. Its warm spices and rich bourbon base make it perfect for sipping by the fire or serving at festive gatherings. With a little prep, you can create a drink that embodies the magic of the season while honoring the timeless elegance of the classic Old Fashioned. Cheers to a drink that’s sure to become a holiday tradition!
Gingerbread Old Fashioned: A Festive Twist on a Timeless Classic
Ingredients
For the Gingerbread Simple Syrup:
1 cup water
1 cup fresh ginger, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/3 cup unsulphured molasses (not blackstrap)
1 teaspoon fresh orange zest
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Gingerbread Old Fashioned:
2 ounces bourbon
1/4 ounce gingerbread simple syrup (about 1 teaspoon)
2-3 dashes orange bitters
1 large ice cube
Orange twist for garnish (optional)
Cinnamon stick for garnish (optional)
Instructions
To Make the Gingerbread Simple Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine water, ginger, brown sugar, molasses, orange zest, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice. Stir to combine.
Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it boils, stirring often to dissolve the sugar.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow to steep for at least 15 minutes.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove solids. Store the syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to several weeks.
To Make the Gingerbread Old Fashioned:
In an Old Fashioned glass, combine bourbon, gingerbread simple syrup, and orange bitters. Stir to mix.
Add one large ice cube and stir 15-20 times to chill and slightly dilute the mixture.
Garnish with an orange twist and cinnamon stick, if desired. Enjoy!