Homemade Old Fashioned Mix

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Are you a fan of a classic Old Fashioned cocktail? Do you find yourself wishing you could enjoy this timeless drink in the comfort of your own home?

Homemade Old Fashioned Mix
Prep
10 min
Total
1 hr 10 min
Servings
48

Method

  1. In a saucepan, heat water and sugar until boiling.

  2. Remove the saucepan from heat.

  3. Add oranges, cherries, and cinnamon stick to the sugar mixture.

  4. Cover the saucepan and let it steep for 1 hour.

  5. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fruit and cinnamon stick from the mixture.

  6. Stir in bitters.

  7. Once the mixture has cooled, transfer it to old liquor or wine bottles for storage.

  8. You can choose to refrigerate or leave the mixture at room temperature.

  9. Typically, a little less than 2 tablespoons of bitters is used.

About this drink

Introduction

Are you a fan of a classic Old Fashioned cocktail? Do you find yourself wishing you could enjoy this timeless drink in the comfort of your own home? Look no further! In this article, we will dive into the world of homemade Old Fashioned mix and how you can create your own unique blend to elevate your cocktail game.

Why Make Your Own Old Fashioned Mix?

Store-bought cocktail mixes often contain artificial flavors and preservatives. By making your own Old Fashioned mix, you have full control over the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and natural taste. Plus, it's a fun and rewarding process to create your own signature mix that you can proudly serve to your friends and family.

Getting Started: The Base

Every great Old Fashioned mix starts with a solid foundation. Typically, the base consists of sugar, bitters, and water. However, you can get creative and experiment with different types of sugar like brown sugar or even honey for a unique twist. The bitters add complexity and depth to the mix, so don't be afraid to try different flavors like orange or cherry bitters.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

To take your Old Fashioned mix to the next level, consider adding a touch of citrus. Whether it's fresh orange zest or a few drops of lemon juice, the citrus notes will brighten up the drink and add a refreshing element. Additionally, you can experiment with spices like cinnamon, cloves, or even a hint of vanilla extract to add warmth and complexity to your mix.

Proper Storage and Shelf Life

Once you've created your homemade Old Fashioned mix, it's important to store it properly to maintain its flavor and quality. A glass bottle or jar with a tight seal works best. Make sure to keep it refrigerated to prolong its shelf life. Generally, homemade mixes can last up to a month, but be sure to use your senses to determine if it's still good to use.

Conclusion

Creating your own homemade Old Fashioned mix is a rewarding experience that allows you to customize your cocktails according to your taste preferences. With a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you'll be sipping on delicious Old Fashioned cocktails in no time.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use alternative sweeteners in my Old Fashioned mix?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with alternative sweeteners like agave syrup or maple syrup to create a unique flavor profile.

How do I incorporate the mix into my cocktail?

It's simple! Just add a few tablespoons of your homemade Old Fashioned mix to your glass, along with your preferred whiskey or bourbon, and stir well. Don't forget to garnish with a cherry and orange twist!

Can I make a large batch of Old Fashioned mix and store it for future use?

Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust the quantities of the ingredients accordingly. Store the mix in airtight containers and refrigerate for freshness.

Can I customize the bitters in my Old Fashioned mix?

Definitely! Bitters come in various flavors, so feel free to experiment and find the perfect combination that suits your taste.

How long does the homemade Old Fashioned mix stay fresh?

If stored properly in the refrigerator, the mix can last up to a month. However, always use your senses to determine if it's still good to use.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Old Fashioned mix?

Absolutely! Simply omit the whiskey or bourbon and adjust the other ingredients to your liking. You can still enjoy a flavorful mocktail version of the classic Old Fashioned.

Are there any additional garnishes I can use for my Old Fashioned cocktail?

Absolutely! Some popular garnishes include a sprig of fresh mint, a lemon twist, or even a few drops of aromatic bitters on top.

Can I gift my homemade Old Fashioned mix to friends and family?

Definitely! Bottling your homemade mix in attractive glass bottles and adding a personalized label makes for a thoughtful and unique gift.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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