If you’re a coffee lover who also enjoys a good bourbon cocktail, this Bourbon Espresso Old Fashioned is going to blow your mind.
It’s smooth, bold, and has the perfect mix of bourbon’s warmth and espresso’s rich flavor. With just a hint of sweetness and a citrusy twist, it’s the ultimate sipping drink for after dinner or a cozy night in.
Let’s mix this up!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso (cooled slightly)
- 1 teaspoon simple syrup (or adjust to taste)
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Ice (large ice cube if possible)
- Orange peel (for garnish)
- Optional: a few coffee beans for garnish
Tools:
- Rocks glass
- Mixing glass
- Spoon or cocktail stirrer
- Peeler or knife for orange peel
Pro Tips
- Use fresh espresso. The rich, bold flavor of freshly brewed espresso makes a huge difference in this cocktail.
- Cool the espresso slightly. Let it sit for a minute before mixing so it doesn’t water down the bourbon.
- Big ice cube is best. It melts slower, keeping your drink cold without diluting it too much.
- Zest for flavor. Gently twist the orange peel over the drink to release its oils before garnishing.
- Experiment with sweetness. Adjust the simple syrup to your taste—just a little goes a long way!
Substitutions and Variations
- No espresso? Use strong black coffee or cold brew concentrate instead.
- Different spirit: Swap bourbon for rye whiskey or dark rum for a unique twist.
- Extra sweet: Add a splash of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa or Tia Maria for added sweetness.
How to make it
1. Combine Ingredients
In a mixing glass, add the bourbon, espresso, simple syrup, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters. Stir gently to combine.
2. Prepare the Glass
Place a large ice cube in a rocks glass. Slowly pour the mixed cocktail over the ice.
3. Garnish and Serve
Twist an orange peel over the drink to release its oils, then place it in the glass as a garnish. Add a few coffee beans on top for an extra touch, if you’d like. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Leftovers and Storage
- This cocktail is best made fresh and enjoyed immediately.
- If you need to prep ahead, you can mix the bourbon, simple syrup, and bitters in advance, but wait to add the espresso and ice until ready to serve.
Conclusion
The Bourbon Espresso Old Fashioned is a smooth, bold, and slightly sweet cocktail that’s perfect for coffee and bourbon lovers alike. It’s classy, easy to make, and the perfect drink to sip slowly and savor. Try it out and let me know how it turned out—did you add your own twist? Cheers! ☕🥃✨
