If you love coffee and classic cocktails, the Espresso Old Fashioned is about to become your new favorite drink. It’s smooth, bold, and has just the right kick of caffeine and whiskey to make you feel fancy without a ton of effort.
This drink is perfect for after dinner, a cozy night in, or impressing friends at your next get-together. Best of all, it’s super easy to make—just a few simple ingredients and you’re good to go.
Let’s mix it up!
What You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso (or strong black coffee)
- 1/4 oz simple syrup (or 1/2 tsp brown sugar)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Ice cubes
- Orange peel (for garnish)
- Coffee bean (optional, for garnish)
Pro Tips:
- Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, strong black coffee works too.
- Chill your glass ahead of time for a super refreshing experience.
- Don’t skip the orange peel garnish—it adds a bright citrusy aroma that makes this drink irresistible.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Rocks glass
- Bar spoon or regular spoon (for stirring)
- Small cup for espresso or coffee
- Peeler or sharp knife (for orange garnish)
Substitutions & Variations:
- No bourbon? Use rye whiskey or even dark rum for a different twist.
- Swap simple syrup for honey or maple syrup for a fun flavor boost.
- Love cream in your coffee? Add a splash of heavy cream to make it a bit richer.
Make Ahead Tips:
Brew your espresso in advance and chill it in the fridge if you’re making this drink cold. You can also pre-mix the whiskey, simple syrup, and bitters, then just add espresso and ice when you’re ready to serve.
How to Make an Espresso Old Fashioned:
1. Add Ingredients to Glass
In a rocks glass, combine 2 oz whiskey, 1 oz espresso, 1/4 oz simple syrup, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
2. Add Ice
Add a few large ice cubes to the glass.
3. Stir
Stir gently for about 20-30 seconds to chill the drink and combine the flavors.
4. Garnish
Peel a strip of orange, twist it over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in or rest it on the rim. Add a coffee bean on top for an extra touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Sip slowly and savor the bold, smooth flavors!
Leftovers & Storage:
This drink is best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate the espresso-whiskey mixture (without ice) for up to 1 day and pour over fresh ice when ready.
Conclusion:
And there you go—the perfect Espresso Old Fashioned to satisfy your coffee and cocktail cravings in one go! It’s a little bit bold, a little bit smooth, and a whole lot of delicious. Give it a try and let me know how you like it! Did you put your own twist on it? Leave a comment below—I’d love to hear! 🥃☕
