Old Fashioned Syrup makes cocktails rich, smooth & easy. Learn recipes, variations & pro tips to craft bar-quality drinks at home!
When it comes to timeless cocktails, the Old Fashioned stands as a true classic. But here’s a secret many home bartenders overlook Old Fashioned syrup is the key to making this legendary drink consistently smooth, flavorful, and bar-quality.
In this guide, we’ll explore what Old Fashioned syrup is, its history, variations, and even how to make your own at home. Let’s dive in!
What is Old Fashioned Syrup?
At its core, Old Fashioned syrup is a pre-mixed sweetener designed to balance and enhance the flavors of classic cocktails.
It typically combines:
- Rich simple syrup (often a 2:1 sugar-to-water ratio)
- Bitters (usually Angostura bitters)
- Citrus zest or subtle spices
Unlike plain simple syrup, this cocktail syrup carries a complex blend of aromatics—sweet, bitter, and subtly spiced—which perfectly complements bourbon or rye whiskey.
How it Differs from Regular Simple Syrup
- Flavor complexity: Simple syrup is just sugar + water, while Old Fashioned syrup includes bitters and spices.
- Convenience: One pour delivers sweetness and bitters, saving time.
- Consistency: Ensures every Old Fashioned tastes the same, even for beginners.
A Quick History of the Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Old Fashioned dates back to the early 1800s, making it one of the oldest known cocktails. Originally called a “whiskey cocktail,” it followed the simplest formula: spirit, sugar, water, and bitters.
As cocktail culture evolved, bartenders experimented with garnishes and liqueurs. Some purists pushed back, asking for the “old-fashioned” way—hence the name.
Back then, bartenders muddled sugar cubes with bitters. Today, many prefer Old Fashioned syrup for a smoother, faster, and more balanced drink.
Variations of Old Fashioned Syrup
Old Fashioned syrup isn’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your flavor preference, you can try different variations:
- Classic Old Fashioned Syrup
- Made with rich demerara or turbinado sugar, Angostura bitters, and orange zest.
- Perfect for a traditional whiskey Old Fashioned.
- Spiced Old Fashioned Syrup
- Adds cinnamon, clove, and star anise for a warm, aromatic profile.
- Ideal for winter cocktails and holiday gatherings.
- Maple Old Fashioned Syrup
- Replaces sugar with real maple syrup for a deeper, earthy sweetness.
- Pairs beautifully with bourbon or barrel-aged rum.
- Citrus-Infused Old Fashioned Syrup
- Infused with orange, lemon, or grapefruit peels for a bright, refreshing twist.
- Great for a lighter, summer-friendly cocktail.
- Smoky Old Fashioned Syrup
- Includes smoked spices or lapsang souchong tea for a rich, campfire-like flavor.
- Best for adventurous whiskey drinkers.
How to Make Homemade Old Fashioned Syrup?
Here’s a foolproof recipe for making your own classic Old Fashioned syrup at home:
Ingredients
- 1 cup demerara sugar (or brown sugar for a richer flavor)
- ½ cup water
- 8 dashes Angostura bitters
- Peel of 1 orange (optional)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water over low heat.
- Stir until the sugar fully dissolves, creating a rich syrup.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Add bitters and orange peel. Let it steep for 10–15 minutes.
- Strain into a clean glass bottle or jar.
Your homemade Old Fashioned syrup is ready!
Storing Old Fashioned Syrup & Shelf Life
To keep your syrup fresh:
- Store in an airtight glass bottle.
- Keep it refrigerated.
- It lasts up to 3–4 weeks.
Pro Tip: Adding a small splash of high-proof whiskey can extend its shelf life by preventing bacterial growth.
Best Cocktails to Pair with Old Fashioned Syrup
While it’s designed for the Old Fashioned cocktail, this syrup can elevate other drinks too:
- Whiskey Sour – Adds a subtle bittersweet complexity.
- Manhattan – Sweetens and balances rye whiskey.
- Boulevardier – Enhances the bourbon + Campari combo.
- Rum Old Fashioned – Try it with aged rum for a tropical twist.
- Non-Alcoholic Spritz – Mix with soda water and citrus for a refreshing mocktail.
Pro Tips for Bartenders & Home Mixologists
- Always measure: Even with syrup, balance is key. Too much can overpower the whiskey.
- Experiment with bitters: Try chocolate, walnut, or orange bitters for unique flavors.
- Use quality ice: Large ice cubes melt slowly, keeping your drink chilled without dilution.
- Garnish wisely: A fresh orange twist or a luxardo cherry elevates presentation and aroma.
- Batch ahead: For parties, pre-batch Old Fashioned syrup to save time behind the bar.
Best Ready-Made Old Fashioned Syrup Brands
If you’re short on time, some ready-made Old Fashioned syrups deliver excellent results:
- Proof Syrup Old Fashioned – Rich, well-balanced, and bartender-approved.
- Demerara Old Fashioned Syrup by Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. – Subtle spice and deep flavor.
- Liber & Co. Classic Gum Syrup – Silky texture with perfect sweetness.
- Small Hand Foods Rich Simple Syrup – Ideal for a minimalist Old Fashioned.
- Hella Cocktail Co. Old Fashioned Mix – Includes bitters and orange essence.
These brands save time without sacrificing quality.
Why Every Home Bar Needs Old Fashioned Syrup
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or unwinding after work, Old Fashioned syrup makes cocktail making effortless. It ensures consistent flavor, speed, and quality, even for beginners.
Plus, it’s a versatile ingredient that goes beyond one drink—making it a must-have in any home bar.
FAQs About Old Fashioned Syrup
1. Can I use regular simple syrup instead of Old Fashioned syrup?
Yes, but it won’t have the same bitters and spice complexity. You’ll need to add bitters separately.
2. Does Old Fashioned syrup work with rye whiskey?
Absolutely! Rye gives a spicier kick, which pairs beautifully with the syrup’s sweetness.
3. Can I make it sugar-free?
Yes—use a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener, but the texture and taste may differ slightly.
4. How much syrup should I use for one cocktail?
Typically ¼ oz to ½ oz, depending on how sweet you like your drink.
5. Is Old Fashioned syrup vegan?
Yes, as long as you use vegan-friendly sugar and bitters.
Final Sip: Time to Elevate Your Cocktail Game
The Old Fashioned syrup is more than just a sweetener it’s a flavor enhancer, time saver, and cocktail game-changer. Whether you make it from scratch or buy a premium brand, it ensures your drinks always taste balanced and professional.
So grab your favorite bourbon, mix up a batch of syrup, and start crafting bar-quality cocktails at home. Cheers!