The Old Fashioned is one of the most iconic cocktails in history, dating back to the early 19th century as a simple mix of spirit, sugar, water, and bitters. The Gingerbread Old Fashioned reinvents this classic with seasonal warmth, using gingerbread syrup and aromatic spices to capture the essence of the holidays.

This variation emerged in modern craft cocktail bars looking to add festive charm to menus while keeping the refined simplicity of the Old Fashioned. By pairing bourbon or rye with gingerbread syrup (a blend of ginger, molasses, cinnamon, and clove) and orange bitters, the drink becomes rich, spiced, and indulgent like sipping a gingerbread biscuit in liquid form. Perfect for Christmas parties, fireside sipping, or as a sophisticated seasonal serve.

• 60 ml (2 oz) bourbon or rye whiskey
• 10 ml (⅓ oz) gingerbread syrup*
• 2 dashes orange bitters
• Ice (large cube preferred)
• Orange peel and cinnamon stick for garnish

*Gingerbread Syrup: Simmer equal parts sugar and water with fresh ginger, molasses, cinnamon, and cloves, then strain and cool.

Add bourbon, syrup, and bitters to a rocks glass with ice. Stir 15–20 seconds until chilled and slightly diluted. Express orange peel over the glass, garnish with the peel, and dust a whisper of nutmeg.