The Cranberry Old Fashioned offers a delightful balance of bourbon’s warmth and the tartness of fresh cranberries, making it the perfect holiday cocktail. This easy-to-make recipe uses a homemade cranberry simple syrup, adding a unique seasonal touch to a classic drink.
Hosting a holiday gathering? A signature cocktail, like the Cranberry Old Fashioned, elevates the celebration. Its vibrant crimson color and festive garnishes instantly evoke holiday cheer. The combination of rich bourbon and homemade cranberry simple syrup delivers a taste that’s both familiar and exciting. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for seasoned cocktail enthusiasts.
Crafting the Perfect Cranberry Old Fashioned
This Cranberry Old Fashioned stands out for its balanced flavors and ease of preparation. The homemade cranberry simple syrup infuses the drink with a genuine seasonal taste that store-bought options can’t replicate.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Balanced Flavors: The tartness of cranberries complements the richness of bourbon, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and tart. This isn’t just a holiday drink; it’s a well-rounded cocktail experience.
- Festive and Approachable: The vibrant color and simple ingredients make this cocktail perfect for holiday gatherings. It’s visually appealing and easy to batch for a crowd.
- Simplicity and Elegance: With just a few ingredients and steps, this cocktail is effortlessly elegant. It’s perfect for both casual get-togethers and more formal celebrations.
Essential Ingredients for Your Cranberry Old Fashioned:
- Quality Bourbon Whiskey: The foundation of this cocktail, choose a bourbon you enjoy sipping neat. Its flavor profile will significantly impact the final drink.
- Homemade Cranberry Simple Syrup: This syrup provides the signature cranberry flavor and sweetness. Fresh cranberries are key to achieving the vibrant taste and color. (Recipe below)
- Angostura Bitters: A few dashes add depth and complexity, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the other flavors.
- Orange Peel: A twist of orange peel releases aromatic oils that complement the cranberry and bourbon.
- Fresh Cranberries and Rosemary: These garnishes add a festive touch and enhance the aromatic experience.
Making the Cranberry Simple Syrup:
- Combine 2 cups of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of fresh cranberries in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 4-5 minutes, allowing the cranberries to burst and release their flavor.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the cranberry solids.
- Let the syrup cool completely before using.
Mixing Your Cranberry Old Fashioned:
- Fill a rocks glass with ice.
- Add 3 ounces of bourbon, 1 ounce of cranberry simple syrup, and 3 dashes of Angostura bitters.
- Stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the cocktail.
- Garnish with an orange peel twist, fresh cranberries, and a sprig of rosemary.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Best Bourbon for a Cranberry Old Fashioned?
A smooth, mid-range bourbon like Four Roses Small Batch or Maker’s Mark works well. For a bolder flavor, try a higher-proof or single barrel bourbon.
Controlling the Sweetness:
Adjust the amount of cranberry simple syrup to your preference. Start with less and add more until you achieve your desired sweetness level.
Making a Batch for a Crowd:
Combine the bourbon, cranberry syrup, and bitters in a pitcher (without ice) and refrigerate. Add ice and garnishes to individual glasses just before serving.
Conclusion
The Cranberry Old Fashioned is a perfect holiday cocktail that balances tradition with a festive twist. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and delivers a delicious flavor that will impress your guests. Cheers to a memorable holiday season!
