The Cinnamon Toast Old Fashioned tastes exactly like it sounds. Warm cinnamon, a little sweetness, and bourbon underneath it all. If you like an Old Fashioned but want something softer and more comforting, this is an easy win.
It’s not spicy, not smoky, and not trying to be clever. It just tastes familiar in a way most people immediately understand. Think cozy rather than bold.
If drinks like the Spiced Apple Cider Old Fashioned or the Vanilla Orange Old Fashioned were your speed, this fits right in.
Cinnamon is already a flavor people associate with warmth and comfort, so it doesn’t feel out of place in a whiskey drink. Using it as a syrup keeps the flavor smooth and controlled, instead of sharp or overpowering.
The key is keeping the cinnamon in the background. Bourbon with caramel or vanilla notes works best here. Anything from our list of the best bourbons for cocktails will do the job without overthinking it.
Here is the recipe
Cinnamon Toast Old Fashioned
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- ¼ oz cinnamon syrup*
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- orange peel
- Optional: cinnamon stick for garnish
- ice cube
Instructions
- *Cinnamon syrup – just gently simmer 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, and 3-4 cinnamon sticks for 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let the cinnamon steep as it cools, about 30 minutes. Strain out the cinnamon sticks and transfer the syrup to a clean bottle or jar.
- Add the bourbon, cinnamon syrup, and bitters to a mixing glass.
- Stir until well chilled—about 20 seconds.
- Strain into a rocks glass over one large cube.
- Twist an orange peel over the drink and drop it in.
Nutrition
When to Serve It
This is a great late-afternoon or evening drink, especially in cooler weather. It’s easy to enjoy and doesn’t require any explanation when you serve it to guests.
It also works well for casual hosting. It fits naturally with other holiday cocktails and simple winter bourbon drinks that people are already in the mood for.
Why Lush Life Likes It
Because it feels comforting without being sweet or heavy. Cinnamon adds spice, bourbon keeps it yummy and caramel, and the Old Fashioned format keeps it familiar.
FAQ
Does this taste sweet?
Not really. It’s softer than a classic Old Fashioned, but still balanced. Use a little less syrup if you like things drier.
Can I use ground cinnamon instead?
No. It won’t dissolve properly and will make the drink gritty. Stick with syrup.
Does this work with rye whiskey?
It can, but bourbon is better here. Rye makes the cinnamon feel sharper instead of warm.
Looking for more easy twists like this? You’ll find plenty in our collection of bourbon cocktail recipes, all built around familiar flavors and simple builds