Are you looking for a sophisticated yet easy cocktail recipe to impress your guests? Look no further! This batched Old Fashioned recipe is your answer. Forget about meticulously crafting individual cocktails – this recipe lets you prepare a delicious batch in advance, freeing you up to enjoy your party. It's the perfect blend of simple homemade cooking and delicious dishes, ideal for any occasion. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, even if it's just a quick cocktail hour.
Why Batch Cocktails?
Batching cocktails offers several advantages. It's incredibly efficient, allowing you to prepare a large quantity ahead of time. This is particularly helpful when entertaining a crowd or simply wanting a relaxing evening without the fuss of cocktail preparation. It also provides consistency – each drink will taste exactly the same, guaranteeing a high-quality experience for everyone.
Ingredients:
This recipe easily scales up or down, depending on your needs. The quantities below make approximately 12 servings.
- 2 cups (475ml) good quality Bourbon or Rye Whiskey (I recommend a high-rye bourbon for a bolder flavor)
- 1 cup (240ml) Simple Syrup (recipe below)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) Water
- 1/4 cup (60ml) Angostura Bitters
- Orange peels, for garnish
Simple Syrup:
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) water
Instructions:
Making the Simple Syrup:
- Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat and let cool completely.
Making the Batched Old Fashioned:
- In a large pitcher or container with a lid, combine the bourbon, simple syrup, water, and Angostura bitters.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. This step is key to developing a really delicious cocktail.
- When ready to serve, fill old-fashioned glasses with large ice cubes.
- Pour the batched Old Fashioned over the ice.
- Express the oils from an orange peel over each drink before dropping the peel in as a garnish.
Tips for the Best Batched Old Fashioned:
- Use quality ingredients: The better your bourbon and bitters, the better your cocktail will taste.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a less sweet Old Fashioned, reduce the amount of simple syrup.
- Experiment with different bitters: Try different bitters such as orange bitters or Peychaud's bitters to customize the flavor profile. This is a great way to explore and create your own perfect recipe.
- Make it ahead: The beauty of this recipe is that you can make it well in advance. The flavors actually improve with time!
Variations:
- Spiced Old Fashioned: Add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves to the batch while it chills for a warm, spiced twist.
- Smoked Old Fashioned: Use a smoked bourbon or add a few drops of liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
- Protein: Negligible
- Fat: Negligible
Enjoy your delicious and effortlessly chic batched Old Fashioned! It's the perfect addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and effortless entertaining. This recipe makes a stunning addition to any get-together and elevates even the simplest of gatherings. Remember to always drink responsibly.