The Salted Honey Old Fashioned is a good option if you like an Old Fashioned that’s smooth but not sweet. Honey softens the whiskey, and a small pinch of salt keeps everything in check. The end result tastes balanced and familiar, not sugary or heavy.
It’s an easy drink to like, even for people who usually find whiskey cocktails a bit much. Nothing unusual going on here — just small changes that make a classic easier to drink. Honey adds roundness instead of straight sweetness, and salt helps bring out the flavors already in the bourbon. You don’t taste “salt” as much as you notice that the drink feels smoother and more put together.
If you’ve liked simple twists like the Vanilla Orange Old Fashioned or the Ginger Molasses Old Fashioned, this one makes sense as the next step. Any solid bottle works here. If you need a starting point, something from our list of the best bourbons for cocktails will do the job.
Salted Honey Old Fashioned
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- ¼ oz honey syrup (just mix honey and warm water until smooth)
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- orange peel
- pinch of sea salt
- ice cube
Instructions
- Add the bourbon, honey syrup, bitters, and salt 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 one works anytime. It’s good before dinner, easy after dinner, and great when someone says they want “something with whiskey, but not too strong.”
It also makes sense for casual get-togethers. It fits naturally alongside other holiday whiskey cocktails or simple winter bourbon drinks that don’t need much explanation.
Why Lush Life Likes It
Because it does exactly what it’s supposed to do. Honey makes bourbon smoother, salt keeps it from getting flat, and the Old Fashioned format keeps everything grounded.
FAQ
Does the drink taste salty?
No. The salt just sharpens the flavors. If you can taste salt, you used too much.
Can I use raw or local honey?
Yes. Just make sure it’s fully dissolved into syrup so it mixes properly.
Is this a sweet cocktail?
Not really. It’s softer than a standard Old Fashioned, but still balanced. Use a little less syrup if you prefer it drier
Want more easy whiskey drinks like this? You’ll find plenty in our collection of bourbon cocktail recipes.