Ingredients

Scale

To make a single serving of Espresso Old Fashioned, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 oz (60 ml) bourbon or rye whiskey – Choose a smooth, well-balanced whiskey for the best flavor.
1 oz (30 ml) fresh espresso – Brewed hot and freshly prepared for the richest taste.
1 tsp simple syrup – Adds sweetness to balance the bitterness of the espresso.
2 dashes Angostura bitters – Classic bitters that add complexity to the cocktail.
Orange peel – For garnish and a hint of citrus aroma.
Ice cubes – To chill the drink.
Optional garnish: Espresso beans or a cinnamon stick for an added touch of sophistication.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Espresso

Brew fresh espresso using an espresso machine or a stovetop espresso maker. The coffee should be hot and fresh to bring out its bold flavors. If you don’t have access to espresso, you can substitute with a strong coffee concentrate.

Step 2: Mix the Whiskey and Bitters

In a mixing glass, combine the whiskey and Angostura bitters. Stir to combine, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Add the Espresso and Simple Syrup

Add the espresso and simple syrup to the mixing glass. Stir well to integrate the coffee and syrup into the whiskey mixture. The syrup will help balance the strong flavors of the espresso and whiskey.

Step 4: Chill and Stir

Fill a rocks glass with large ice cubes to chill your cocktail. Pour the mixture from the mixing glass into the prepared glass, ensuring that the ice doesn’t dilute the drink too much. Stir gently for 10-15 seconds to chill and blend the flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with a strip of orange peel, carefully expressing the oils over the drink by gently twisting it. You can also add an espresso bean or cinnamon stick for extra flair. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

Fresh espresso is key to the depth and richness of this cocktail. If you can’t brew espresso at home, look for a high-quality espresso concentrate or cold brew coffee.
The simple syrup can be adjusted based on how sweet you prefer your cocktails. You can also experiment with flavored syrups like maple or honey for different taste profiles.
Large ice cubes are best for this drink, as they melt slowly and prevent excessive dilution.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 180-200 per serving
Sodium: 5mg
Protein: 1g