Are you looking for a sophisticated yet easy cocktail recipe to impress your guests or simply treat yourself? Look no further! This Old Fashioned with Grand Marnier is a twist on a classic, offering a delightful blend of sweetness, bitterness, and a hint of orangey flair. This recipe is perfect for those cozy nights in or elegant gatherings, proving that delicious drinks don't have to be complicated. It's a quick dinner drink, a perfect addition to a healthy meal, and honestly, just a delicious dish all on its own!
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Bourbon or Rye Whiskey (choose your favorite!)
- 1 sugar cube (or 1 teaspoon granulated sugar)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1/2 ounce Grand Marnier
- Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
-
Muddle the sugar: In an Old Fashioned glass (a rocks glass works too!), muddle the sugar cube (or granulated sugar) with a few dashes of water until dissolved. This creates a simple syrup right in your glass!
-
Add bitters and whiskey: Add the Angostura bitters and your chosen whiskey to the glass.
-
Stir well: Using a bar spoon or a long spoon, stir the mixture gently but thoroughly for about 30 seconds. This ensures everything is well combined and chilled.
-
Add Grand Marnier: Gently pour in the Grand Marnier.
-
Add ice: Fill the glass with large ice cubes.
-
Stir again: Stir gently once more to chill the drink further.
-
Garnish and serve: Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink (gently rub the peel around the rim of the glass), then drop the peel into the glass as a garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy responsibly!
Tips for the Best Old Fashioned:
- Use good quality ice: Large, clear ice cubes melt slower, keeping your drink colder for longer and preventing dilution.
- Don't over-muddle: Too much muddling can make your drink bitter. Just dissolve the sugar.
- Experiment with different whiskeys: Bourbon and rye whiskey are traditional choices, but feel free to experiment with other whiskeys to find your favorite combination.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, add a bit more sugar. Conversely, for a less sweet drink, reduce the amount.
Variations:
- Spiced Old Fashioned: Add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves to the glass while muddling the sugar for a warm, spiced twist.
- Smoked Old Fashioned: Use smoked whiskey or add a few drops of smoked bitters for a smoky flavor profile. A great homemade cooking touch!
- Cherry Old Fashioned: Add a maraschino cherry to the glass for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 calories
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Sugar: Approximately 10-15 grams
This Old Fashioned with Grand Marnier is a simple yet elegant cocktail that is sure to impress. It's a perfect example of how easy homemade cooking can elevate even the simplest of gatherings. The combination of rich whiskey, bittersweet Angostura bitters, and the bright citrus notes of Grand Marnier create a truly unforgettable drinking experience, ideal for any occasion. Enjoy!