Are you looking for a sophisticated yet simple cocktail to impress your guests or enjoy a relaxing evening at home? Look no further! This Old Fashioned recipe with Crown Royal takes the timeless classic to a new level of deliciousness. The rich, smooth notes of Crown Royal perfectly complement the sweetness of the sugar and the bitterness of the Angostura bitters, creating a truly unforgettable drinking experience. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced mixologists, making it a great addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Crown Royal Canadian Whisky
- 1 sugar cube (or 1 teaspoon granulated sugar)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel, for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle the sugar: In an Old Fashioned glass (a short, wide tumbler), gently muddle the sugar cube (or granulated sugar) with a few dashes of water until it dissolves completely. This step creates a simple syrup, enhancing the sweetness of the cocktail.
- Add bitters: Add the Angostura bitters to the glass and stir gently to combine with the sugar syrup. The bitters add a complex layer of flavor, balancing the sweetness of the drink.
- Add whisky and ice: Pour the Crown Royal whisky into the glass. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Stir well: Using a bar spoon or a long spoon, stir the cocktail gently for about 20-30 seconds. This ensures the drink is properly chilled and the flavors are well-integrated. Don't over-stir; you want the ice to remain mostly intact.
- Garnish and serve: Express the oils from an orange peel over the surface of the drink by gently twisting it above the glass before dropping it into the drink as a garnish. This adds a delightful citrus aroma and flavor.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned:
- Use good quality ice: Large, clear ice cubes melt more slowly, preventing your drink from becoming watered down too quickly.
- Don't over-muddle: Gently muddle the sugar; you don't want to crush it into a paste.
- Adjust sweetness and bitterness to your liking: If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a bit more sugar. Conversely, add more bitters for a more intense, bitter flavor.
- Experiment with different garnishes: While orange peel is classic, you can also experiment with a cherry or a brandied cherry.
Variations:
- Spiced Old Fashioned: Add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves to the muddling process for a warm, spiced variation.
- Maple Old Fashioned: Replace the sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist.
- Apple Old Fashioned: Add a slice of apple to the muddling process for a fresh, fruity flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This nutritional information is an approximation and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
- Protein: Negligible
- Fat: Negligible
This Old Fashioned recipe with Crown Royal is the perfect drink for any occasion. Its smooth, balanced flavor profile makes it a crowd-pleaser, while its elegant simplicity makes it easy to prepare. Enjoy responsibly!