Introduction: What Is a Christmas Old Fashioned?
The Old Fashioned is the cocktail that never goes out of style—bold, simple, and endlessly sippable. But when winter rolls around, it’s time to take that timeless drink and give it a holiday makeover. Enter the Christmas Old Fashioned, a warmly spiced, citrus-kissed version of the original that feels like a cozy hug by the fire.
This festive twist doesn’t reinvent the wheel. Instead, it layers holiday flavors—like cinnamon, orange, and herbal rosemary—onto the classic base of bourbon and bitters. The result? A cocktail that’s rich, balanced, aromatic, and perfectly suited for slow sipping during the holidays.
Whether you’re curled up in a knit blanket, entertaining friends at a holiday gathering, or just looking for something seasonal to replace your usual pour, this drink delivers warmth, nostalgia, and elegance in a single glass.
The History of the Old Fashioned
To appreciate the Christmas Old Fashioned, we first have to understand the legacy it’s built upon. The Old Fashioned isn’t just a drink—it’s a legend. One of the earliest known cocktails, its origins date back to the early 1800s, and it remains a cornerstone of classic cocktail culture to this day.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
🥃 Origins of a Legend
The term “cocktail” was originally defined in 1806 as a combination of spirit, sugar, water, and bitters—a formula that perfectly describes the Old Fashioned. While the drink evolved over the years, it found its true identity in the late 19th century when bartenders began calling it an “Old Fashioned” to distinguish it from newer, more complex concoctions.
Back then, it was all about simplicity and balance:
- A good base spirit (usually whiskey)
- A touch of sugar or syrup
- A few dashes of bitters
- Citrus peel for aromatics
It was, and still is, a minimalist’s masterpiece.
💫 Why It’s Still Relevant
Despite the ever-changing cocktail trends, the Old Fashioned has endured for centuries. Why? Because it’s:
- Elegant in its simplicity
- Easy to make but hard to master
- Perfect for highlighting a quality spirit
- Adaptable—just like we’re doing with this Christmas twist
Modern bartenders (and home mixologists) love it because it serves as a blank canvas for seasonal flavors. Add a flavored syrup, infuse the bitters, or experiment with garnishes—and you’ve got a whole new experience.
🎄 Making It Holiday-Ready
That’s where the Christmas Old Fashioned comes in. Instead of plain simple syrup, we’re using cinnamon simple syrup to infuse warmth and spice. The orange peel gets a festive upgrade with a sprig of fresh rosemary, and just like that—you’ve taken a classic and turned it into a holiday hero.
Think of it like wrapping a timeless gift in holiday paper. It’s still the same beloved present—but with a little seasonal sparkle.
How the Christmas Old Fashioned Adds a Festive Flair
The Christmas Old Fashioned doesn’t try to overshadow the classic—it simply dresses it up for the season. Like adding a holiday sweater to your favorite outfit, this twist is all about enhancing what’s already great with cozy, comforting, seasonal flavors.
If a traditional Old Fashioned is a quiet, dimly lit bar on a Friday night, the Christmas version is that same bar strung with twinkle lights, filled with the smell of cinnamon, and buzzing with holiday cheer.
🪵 So What Makes It “Christmas”?
- Cinnamon Simple Syrup
- The star of the show.
- Replaces traditional sugar or plain simple syrup.
- Adds a warm, spicy note that instantly evokes memories of holiday baking, mulled cider, and fresh pine.
- Orange Peel
- A classic element in Old Fashioneds.
- Adds brightness and citrus oil to balance the sweetness and spice.
- Its color and aroma fit right in with holiday vibes.
- Bitters
- Still essential, but you can opt for seasonal bitters like:
- Spiced cherry
- Orange-clove
- Chocolate or walnut bitters for a deeper, dessert-like finish
- Still essential, but you can opt for seasonal bitters like:
- Rosemary Garnish
- This is where the magic happens.
- A fresh rosemary sprig isn’t just a garnish—it’s an aromatic experience.
- Smells like a Christmas tree and complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- For added flair, you can even light the rosemary briefly for a smoked effect.
🎄 The Holiday Vibes
When all these elements come together, the drink transforms. It’s still an Old Fashioned—strong, slow-sipping, and classy—but now it feels like December in a glass. It’s something you want to sip while watching snow fall or wrapping gifts, curled up by the fire in your warmest socks.
The best part? It’s still easy to make. No obscure ingredients. No complicated steps. Just thoughtful tweaks to a classic format that make it feel incredibly intentional and festive.
Ingredients Overview
The beauty of the Christmas Old Fashioned is that it keeps the ingredient list short and sweet—while still delivering depth, warmth, and balance. Just a few key upgrades to the traditional recipe, and you’ve got yourself a holiday masterpiece in a glass.
Here’s a full breakdown of the ingredients and what each one brings to the table.
🥃 Bourbon (2 oz)
This is the foundation of the drink. Bourbon brings:
- Sweet vanilla and caramel notes
- A hint of oak and spice
- That warming, slow-sipping comfort that makes you feel like you’re next to a fireplace
It’s important to use a good-quality bourbon here since the drink is spirit-forward. More on the best bourbon choices later.
🍯 Cinnamon Simple Syrup (½ oz)
This is where the holiday magic starts. The cinnamon syrup replaces traditional sugar or plain simple syrup to add:
- A soft, warming spice
- A touch of sweetness without being cloying
- That unmistakable flavor of the holidays (think: cinnamon rolls, apple pie, mulled wine)
Homemade is best—and super easy. Just combine equal parts sugar and water with a couple cinnamon sticks, simmer, strain, and store.
Bitters (2–3 dashes)
Bitters are essential in any Old Fashioned. They cut through the sweetness and bring complexity and balance. For a Christmas version, try experimenting with:
- Angostura bitters (classic and reliable)
- Orange bitters (adds a bright citrus punch)
- Holiday bitters like cherry, chocolate, or even gingerbread varieties if you can find them
They add a layer of depth and spice that plays beautifully with the cinnamon syrup and citrus.
🍊 Orange Peel
This isn’t just for looks. Expressing an orange peel over the glass releases essential oils that:
- Add a bright, citrus aroma with every sip
- Help cut through the bourbon’s warmth and cinnamon’s richness
- Create that first impression your nose gets before your lips even touch the glass
Use a wide peeler or paring knife and gently twist the peel over the drink before dropping it in.
🌿 Rosemary Sprig (for garnish)
Optional, but highly recommended. It:
- Looks like a mini Christmas tree in your glass
- Smells like the holidays
- Adds herbal freshness that balances the sweetness and spice
Pro move: light the rosemary sprig briefly with a match and blow it out—then drop it in the drink. The smoke adds an extra cozy aroma that makes this cocktail unforgettable.
🧊 Ice
This is a slow-sipping cocktail, so the ice you use matters. Go for:
- A large single cube or sphere (melts slowly, keeps drink cold)
- Crystal-clear ice for an elevated look
Avoid crushed ice or too much dilution—you want the flavors to shine, not get watered down.
Choosing the Right Bourbon
In a cocktail as spirit-forward as the Christmas Old Fashioned, your choice of bourbon is more than just a base—it’s the star of the show. Since there are no mixers to mask its flavor, you want something smooth, rich, and flavorful, with enough character to stand up to the cinnamon syrup and bitters without overpowering the subtle citrus and herb notes.
Let’s walk through how to choose the perfect bourbon and highlight some top-shelf (and budget-friendly) picks that’ll elevate your holiday cocktail game.
🥃 What to Look for in a Holiday Bourbon
You’re looking for a bourbon that’s:
- Warm and round – Think vanilla, caramel, and oak.
- Not overly spicy – Rye-heavy bourbons can clash with the cinnamon.
- Smooth and slightly sweet – To complement the syrup and orange.
Avoid bourbons that are too hot (high-proof without balance) or overly aggressive on the spice front unless you’re intentionally going for a bolder drink.
🥇 Recommended Bourbons for a Christmas Old Fashioned
⭐ Maker’s Mark
- Smooth, sweet, and widely available.
- The soft red winter wheat mash gives it a mellow flavor—ideal for cocktails with a gentle finish.
⭐ Woodford Reserve
- Rich and full-bodied with notes of dried fruit and baking spices.
- A premium feel without the premium price tag.
⭐ Buffalo Trace
- A fan favorite.
- Balanced and slightly oaky, with a smooth finish that works beautifully with cinnamon and orange.
⭐ Bulleit Bourbon
- A bit more spice-forward (thanks to a higher rye content), but it adds a pleasant bite if you want a slightly bolder sip.
⭐ Elijah Craig Small Batch
- Aged well, deep in flavor, and perfect for a rich Old Fashioned. Slight hints of cinnamon make it a great match for this holiday twist.
💸 Budget-Friendly Options
- Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond – Strong, affordable, and surprisingly tasty for the price.
- Wild Turkey 101 – High-proof, so use with care, but its bold flavor holds up well in a winter cocktail.
🥃 Want to Go Ultra-Lux?
If you’re in the mood to splurge for a special evening or gift:
- Blanton’s Single Barrel
- Angel’s Envy
- Basil Hayden’s
- Four Roses Small Batch Select
These premium bourbons offer incredible depth and complexity, perfect for impressing guests or savoring slowly by the fire.
🔥 Pro Tips:
- Taste test your bourbon on its own before building the cocktail. If you wouldn’t sip it neat, you probably won’t love it in your Old Fashioned either.
- A higher-proof bourbon (90–100+) will give your drink more punch, especially if serving it over a big ice cube.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Now that you know what goes into it and how to make it stunning, let’s actually build the Christmas Old Fashioned—step-by-step. This is a drink that’s all about craftsmanship, not complexity. With a few quality ingredients and a little finesse, you’ll have a cocktail that’s as elegant as it is festive.
Here’s exactly how to make it, whether you’re mixing one for yourself or prepping a small batch for holiday guests.
🎄 Christmas Old Fashioned Recipe
📋 Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- ½ oz cinnamon simple syrup (homemade or high-quality store-bought)
- 2–3 dashes bitters (Angostura, orange, or your holiday choice)
- Orange peel, for garnish
- Rosemary sprig, optional garnish
- Large ice cube or sphere
🥄 Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glass
- Use a lowball or rocks glass—the traditional choice for an Old Fashioned.
- If you’re using sugar for a rim (optional), rub the edge of the glass with an orange wedge and dip into cinnamon sugar for a little holiday sparkle.
2. Add the Ingredients
- Pour 2 oz of bourbon into the glass.
- Add ½ oz of cinnamon simple syrup.
- Dash in 2–3 drops of bitters (you can combine types, like Angostura + orange).
3. Add Ice
- Drop in a large cube or sphere of ice. This chills the drink slowly and prevents it from becoming watered down too fast.
- No crushed ice here—this is a sipping drink.
4. Stir Gently
- Stir with a bar spoon or stir stick for about 15–20 seconds.
- This chills the drink, dilutes just a touch, and blends the flavors.
- Don’t overdo it—the goal is cold and smooth, not watery.
5. Express the Orange Peel
- Take a strip of orange peel and twist it over the glass to release the oils.
- Rub it along the rim of the glass, then drop it in or rest it on the edge.
6. Garnish Like a Pro
- Add a fresh rosemary sprig (gently slapped to release aroma).
- Optional: Smoke the rosemary before adding it for a dramatic, aromatic presentation.
- Want more holiday flavor? Add a cinnamon stick or cherry as well.
🧑🎄 That’s it!
You’ve now made a Christmas Old Fashioned that looks like it came from a craft cocktail bar—but it was done in minutes, right in your own kitchen.
🥂 Scaling for a Crowd?
You can multiply the ingredients and pre-mix a batch in a pitcher for 4–6 servings. Just stir with ice when serving and add garnishes individually.
Conclusion: Why It’s a New Holiday Classic
The Christmas Old Fashioned is everything a holiday cocktail should be: warm, elegant, simple, and memorable. It’s a drink that invites slowing down, taking a breath, and soaking in all the magic this season has to offer.
With its smooth bourbon base, spiced cinnamon syrup, aromatic bitters, and festive garnishes, it captures the essence of the holidays in a single glass. It’s the kind of drink you sip while the snow falls outside, while the fireplace crackles, or while you toast to being together—even if “together” means a quiet night for one.
More than just a twist on a classic, the Christmas Old Fashioned is a celebration of the moment. It’s nostalgia, flavor, and tradition—shaken (well, stirred) with a little seasonal sparkle.
Whether you stick with the traditional recipe or explore the variations, this cocktail deserves a spot in your holiday rotation. So go ahead—grab your bourbon, stir up some holiday spirit, and raise a glass to comfort, joy, and good taste.
Cheers to your new favorite Christmas cocktail! 🥃🎄
FAQs
1. Can I batch a Christmas Old Fashioned for a party?
Absolutely! Combine bourbon, cinnamon syrup, and bitters in a pitcher. Stir with ice when ready to serve and garnish each drink individually with orange peel and rosemary.
2. How long does cinnamon simple syrup last?
When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will last up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage.
3. Can I use rye whiskey instead of bourbon?
Yes, but note that rye is spicier and drier than bourbon. It’ll create a bolder drink that some might love, but it could overpower the holiday spice.
4. What’s the best way to make this a mocktail?
Use chilled black tea, non-alcoholic bourbon alternatives, or spiced apple cider. Combine with cinnamon syrup, bitters (non-alcoholic), and garnish as usual.
5. Can I substitute store-bought cinnamon syrup?
Yes, but read the ingredients to make sure it’s made with real cinnamon and not artificial flavors. Homemade gives you the best, freshest results.
Christmas Old Fashioned🎄🥃
Description
The Old Fashioned is the cocktail that never goes out of style—bold, simple, and endlessly sippable. But when winter rolls around, it’s time to take that timeless drink and give it a holiday makeover. Enter the Christmas Old Fashioned, a warmly spiced, citrus-kissed version of the original that feels like a cozy hug by the fire.
Ingredients
2 oz bourbon
½ oz cinnamon simple syrup (homemade or high-quality store-bought)
2–3 dashes bitters (Angostura, orange, or your holiday choice)
Orange peel, for garnish
Rosemary sprig, optional garnish
Large ice cube or sphere
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Glass
Use a lowball or rocks glass—the traditional choice for an Old Fashioned.
If you’re using sugar for a rim (optional), rub the edge of the glass with an orange wedge and dip into cinnamon sugar for a little holiday sparkle.
2. Add the Ingredients
Pour 2 oz of bourbon into the glass.
Add ½ oz of cinnamon simple syrup.
Dash in 2–3 drops of bitters (you can combine types, like Angostura + orange).
3. Add Ice
Drop in a large cube or sphere of ice. This chills the drink slowly and prevents it from becoming watered down too fast.
No crushed ice here—this is a sipping drink.
4. Stir Gently
Stir with a bar spoon or stir stick for about 15–20 seconds.
This chills the drink, dilutes just a touch, and blends the flavors.
Don’t overdo it—the goal is cold and smooth, not watery.
5. Express the Orange Peel
Take a strip of orange peel and twist it over the glass to release the oils.
Rub it along the rim of the glass, then drop it in or rest it on the edge.
6. Garnish Like a Pro
Add a fresh rosemary sprig (gently slapped to release aroma).
Optional: Smoke the rosemary before adding it for a dramatic, aromatic presentation.
Want more holiday flavor? Add a cinnamon stick or cherry as well.
🧑🎄 That’s it!
You’ve now made a Christmas Old Fashioned that looks like it came from a craft cocktail bar—but it was done in minutes, right in your own kitchen.
🥂 Scaling for a Crowd?
You can multiply the ingredients and pre-mix a batch in a pitcher for 4–6 servings. Just stir with ice when serving and add garnishes individually.
