Name: Christmas Old Fashioned
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup pure maple syrup; 1 stick cinnamon stick (or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon); 1 tablespoon cardamom pods, lightly crushed (or 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom); 2 ounces bourbon; 1 ounce lemon juice; 1 ounce orange juice; 1-3 tablespoons maple cardamon syrup (ingredients listed above); 1-2 dashes bitters; ginger beer (for topping, optional); orange zest (for garnish); sugared cranberries (for garnish)

Introduction to Christmas Old Fashioned

The Christmas Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail; it’s a festive celebration in a glass! This delightful drink combines traditional flavors that evoke the warmth of the holiday season, making it the perfect companion for your cozy gatherings. Imagine clinking glasses with friends by the fire as you savor the sweet aroma of maple and spices—sounds enchanting, doesn't it?

Why the Christmas Old Fashioned is the Perfect Holiday Drink

What sets the Christmas Old Fashioned apart is its ability to blend classic elements with seasonal flair. With a maple cardamom syrup adding a unique twist, every sip transports you to a wintry wonderland. The rich, warming bourbon pairs beautifully with the citrus notes from lemon and orange juice, creating a refreshing yet comforting flavor profile.

This drink is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or simply winding down after a long day, the Christmas Old Fashioned is a crowd-pleaser that brings cheer to any occasion. Plus, the added garnish of sugared cranberries elevates it to a festive masterpiece.

If you’re ready to impress your guests or just indulge in a little seasonal magic, stick around for the full recipe. Cheers to holiday merriment!

Ingredients for Christmas Old Fashioned

Crafting a Christmas Old Fashioned is all about harmonizing flavors to create a warm and cozy drink—perfect for the holiday season. Let's break down the ingredients you'll need, starting with the unique maple cardamom syrup that adds a festive twist.

Maple Cardamom Syrup Ingredients

½ cup pure maple syrup: Opt for high-quality maple syrup for the best flavor.
1 cinnamon stick (or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon): This adds a comforting spice.
1 tablespoon cardamom pods, lightly crushed (or ½ teaspoon ground cardamom): Infuses a fragrant, aromatic touch.

This syrup not only sweetens your drink but also introduces delightful earthy notes.

Old Fashioned Drink Ingredients

2 ounces bourbon: Choose your favorite brand for a rich base.
1 ounce lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best for brightness.
1 ounce orange juice: Adds a zesty kick.
1-3 tablespoons maple cardamom syrup: Adjust to your sweetness preference.
1-2 dashes bitters: For depth and complexity.
Ginger beer (optional): This is perfect for a little fizz!
Orange zest and sugared cranberries: For the final festive touch.

With these ingredients on hand, you'll be well-prepared to impress your friends and family with a Christmas Old Fashioned that embodies the spirit of the holidays. 🌟

Step-by-step preparation of Christmas Old Fashioned

Creating the perfect Christmas Old Fashioned is a delightful way to embrace the holiday season. With its blend of rich flavors and festive charm, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests or add a little cheer to your celebrations. Here’s how to make this cozy drink step-by-step.

Making the maple cardamom syrup

The foundation of your Christmas Old Fashioned is the maple cardamom syrup, which adds a warm sweetness and intriguing spice to the drink.

Gather your ingredients: You’ll need ½ cup of pure maple syrup, a cinnamon stick (or 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon), and 1 tablespoon of cardamom pods, lightly crushed (or ½ teaspoon of ground cardamom).
Cook the syrup: In a medium pot, bring ¼ cup of water along with the maple syrup, cinnamon, and cardamom to a rapid boil over high heat. Allow it to boil for about 2-3 minutes before removing it from heat.
Cool down: Let the syrup sit and cool for a bit. This will create a fragrant, spiced nectar perfect for enhancing your cocktail. You’ll have enough syrup for about six drinks, so feel free to store any leftovers for your next festive gathering.

Mixing the Old Fashioned drink components

With your syrup ready, let’s bring together the components of the Christmas Old Fashioned.

Start with the base: In a rocks glass, gently combine 2 ounces (¼ cup) of your favorite bourbon. This is the heart of the drink, so choose one you enjoy.
Add the bright notes: Incorporate 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) each of freshly squeezed lemon juice and orange juice. The citrus will add a refreshing zing that balances the sweetness of the syrup.
Incorporate the syrup and bitters: Mix in 1-3 tablespoons of your homemade maple cardamom syrup (taste test to find your perfect level of sweetness) and a dash or two of bitters. This will introduce an extra layer of complexity to the drink.
Finish with ice: Fill the glass with ice and, if you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of ginger beer for a bit of effervescence.

Garnishing and serving the drink

Now that your Christmas Old Fashioned is mixed, it’s time to make it visually stunning!

Choose your garnishes: Enhance your drink's festivity with orange zest and a few sugared cranberries. The cranberries are not just pretty; they add a delightful flavor pop!
Serve with flair: Take a moment to appreciate your creation before serving it to friends. The colors of the citrus, the shine of the syrup, and those sparkling cranberries all make for a festive presentation.

Sit back, sip, and enjoy the holiday spirit that this Christmas Old Fashioned brings! This drink isn’t just a cocktail; it’s a cozy moment encapsulated in a glass. Cheers to the season!

Variations on Christmas Old Fashioned

Festive Spice Twist

Elevate your Christmas Old Fashioned with a delightful spice twist. Instead of the traditional simple syrup, infuse your drink with a homemade spiced syrup made from maple syrup, vanilla, and fresh ginger. Simply simmer equal parts maple syrup and water with a few slices of ginger and a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor perfect for winter gatherings. The result? A drink that tastes like the holidays in a glass!

Citrus-Infused Alternatives

For a refreshing Christmas Old Fashioned, consider adding a splash of citrus synergy. Experiment with blood orange juice or grapefruit juice in place of regular orange juice. This gives your cocktail a vibrant color and a zesty kick, making it not only more festive but also incredibly refreshing. A twist of lemon or lime peel enhances the aroma and rounds out the flavor profile beautifully, ensuring your drink stands out at any holiday gathering.

Cooking tips and notes for Christmas Old Fashioned

Tips for syrup consistency

When crafting your Maple Cardamom Syrup, achieving the right thickness is key. Allow the mixture to bubble for 2-3 minutes, but don’t let it boil for too long to prevent crystallization. If your syrup ends up too thick, simply stir in a splash of water until you reach the desired consistency.

How to add a personal touch

Elevate your Christmas Old Fashioned by incorporating your favorite seasonal spices or garnishes. Consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or using fresh rosemary for an aromatic flair. Personalizing your drink not only showcases your creativity but can also make it a memorable part of your holiday celebrations. Why not experiment and find your signature twist?

Serving suggestions for Christmas Old Fashioned

Best glassware for presentation

To elevate your Christmas Old Fashioned, choose a classic rocks glass or whiskey tumbler. Look for glassware that has a heavy base—this not only adds an elegant touch but also keeps your drink perfectly chilled. For a festive flair, opt for glasses with intricate designs or even colored glass that reflects the warmth of the holiday season.

Complementary snacks for your drink

Pair your Christmas Old Fashioned with tasty snacks that enhance the experience. Here are some delightful options:

Turkey Bacon Candies: Sweet, salty, and smoky, these little bites are sure to impress.
Cheese Board: Include aged cheeses like cheddar or gouda, complemented by fruits like figs and pears.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory bites filled with herbs and cream cheese make a great accompaniment.

With these suggestions, your holiday gathering will not only taste great but also look fabulous!

Time Breakdown for Christmas Old Fashioned

When you're gearing up to impress your guests with a delightful Christmas Old Fashioned, knowing how much time you need can make the process feel seamless. Here's a quick glance at the timing to create this festive drink:

Preparation Time

10 minutes
Gather your ingredients and whip up that essential maple cardamon syrup. It’s a simple and satisfying start!

Cook Time

5 minutes
This includes making your syrup and mixing the drink. You’ll love how quickly it comes together.

Total Time

15 minutes
In just a quarter of an hour, you can serve a delicious Christmas Old Fashioned that's perfect for holiday mingling!

Check out The Spruce Eats for more creative drink recipes to enhance your holiday spirit!

Nutritional Facts for Christmas Old Fashioned

Estimated Calories per Serving

Each delightful Christmas Old Fashioned contains approximately 1121 calories. While this may seem high, savoring this seasonal drink during festive celebrations can certainly be justified as a treat amidst your holiday indulgences.

Information on Sugars

In this recipe, natural sweeteners like pure maple syrup are used, contributing roughly 33 grams of sugar per serving. This natural sugar enhances the drink's flavor without relying on added refined sugars. For a lighter approach, consider adjusting the syrup to fit your taste! Remember, it's all about balance during the holidays.

For more insights on sugar content in drinks, check out Healthline's guide on sugar alternatives for tips on making healthier choices during the festive season!

FAQs about Christmas Old Fashioned

Can I make this drink non-alcoholic?

Absolutely! You can easily create a non-alcoholic version of the Christmas Old Fashioned by replacing the bourbon with a delicious non-alcoholic whiskey or a flavored sparkling water. This way, you can savor that festive flavor without the booze. For an extra twist, try infusing some ginger beer with a few spices to mimic the depth that bourbon brings to your drink.

How far in advance can I make the syrup?

You can make the maple cardamon syrup a few days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good shake before using to mix the flavors back together. This makes it super convenient for holiday gatherings or last-minute celebrations!

What are good garnishes for a festive look?

For a truly festive touch, consider garnishing your Christmas Old Fashioned with:

Sugared cranberries
A twist of orange peel
A sprig of fresh rosemary or mint

These garnishes not only add a pop of color but also enhance the aroma and flavor, making your drink look as wonderful as it tastes!

For more festive recipe ideas, check out resources like Bon Appétit.

Conclusion on Christmas Old Fashioned

The Christmas Old Fashioned is a festive twist on a classic favorite, perfect for holiday celebrations. Combining rich maple and warm spices, this cocktail brings warmth and cheer to any gathering. Whether you're with friends or family, this drink is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition. Cheers!