This one tastes like warm apples straight out of the oven. Not cider, not candy-sweet—just baked apple flavor with a little spice and bourbon underneath it. It’s familiar in the best way and easy to understand from the first sip.
If you liked the Spiced Apple Cider Old Fashioned but want something calmer and less seasonal, this is a good next step. It feels homemade rather than festive, which makes it easy to drink all winter.
Why This Works
Baked apple flavor is softer than cider and less sharp than fresh apple. It sits comfortably with bourbon instead of competing with it. A small amount of apple syrup gives sweetness, while bitters and orange peel keep everything balanced.
This is the kind of drink people save because they know they’ll actually make it.
Here is the Recipe
Baked Apple Cider Old Fashioned
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- ¼ oz baked apple syrup*
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Orange peel
- Optional: thin apple slice for garnish
- ice cube
Instructions
- Make the Baked Apple Syrup – see below
- Add the bourbon, baked apple syrup, and bitters to a mixing glass.
- Stir until well chilled—about 20 seconds.
- Strain into a rocks glass over one large cube.
- Express an orange peel over the drink, then drop it in.
- Garnish with an apple slice
Notes
How to Make Baked Apple Syrup
This syrup is simple and keeps the apple flavor soft instead of sharp. Ingredients:- 1 cup apple juice or fresh apple cider
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
- Simmer everything gently for 10–15 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Remove from heat and cool completely.
- Strain and refrigerate.
Nutrition
When to Serve It
This works well in the afternoon or evening, especially when you want something cozy but not heavy. It’s good before dinner and easy after, and it makes sense for casual gatherings where you don’t want to explain what’s in the glass.
It also fits naturally alongside other winter bourbon drinks and approachable holiday whiskey cocktails.
Why Lush Life Loves It
Because it tastes familiar without feeling boring. Apple, cinnamon, and bourbon are flavors people already like—the drink just puts them together in a way that feels calm and balanced.
FAQ
Can I use apple cider instead of baked apple syrup?
You can, but reduce it first. Straight cider is too thin and sharp on its own.
Is this sweeter than an Old Fashioned?
A little, but not much. If you want it drier, use slightly less syrup.
Does this work with rye whiskey?
Yes. Rye makes it spicier and a bit drier, but it still works well.
Looking for more easy whiskey drinks like this? You’ll find plenty in our collection of bourbon cocktail recipes.