Paul Kushner
The Almond Old Fashioned is a smooth twist on the timeless classic, bringing the warmth of bourbon together with the nutty sweetness of amaretto. The bitters round out the drink, adding complexity and depth, while citrus from an optional dash of orange bitters and a peel garnish enhances the aroma. Served over ice in a chilled glass, it’s the kind of cocktail that feels comforting yet refined. Perfect for sipping slowly, this drink works well as an after-dinner treat or as a mellow, spirit-forward option at any gathering. A little sweetness, a little spice, and a lot of character.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Almond Old Fashioned offers a warming balance of bourbon and nutty sweetness. The bold, oak-driven character of bourbon takes center stage, softened by the smooth richness of amaretto. Bitters add complexity, giving structure and balance, while a touch of orange bitters (if used) provides a subtle citrus lift. The garnish of orange peel and optional cherry completes the drink with aromatic and flavorful accents. Each sip feels layered and comforting, combining strength, sweetness, and a touch of brightness. This cocktail is both approachable and complex, making it a timeless choice with a distinctive almond twist.
Equipment and Glassware
Making an Almond Old Fashioned doesn’t require much equipment, but precision is key. A mixing glass provides the space to combine the ingredients and chill the drink properly. A bar spoon ensures gentle stirring, which cools and dilutes the cocktail without over-agitating it. A strainer is needed to transfer the drink neatly into the serving glass, free from excess ice. Use a sturdy rocks glass or Old Fashioned glass for serving, as its wide opening enhances the aromas while comfortably holding ice. Fresh ice cubes are essential, ideally large cubes, to slow dilution and maintain the drink’s balance.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon (choose a good-quality bottle)
- ½ oz amaretto
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash orange bitters (optional)
- Orange peel (for garnish)
- Maraschino cherry (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Place an Old Fashioned glass in the freezer to chill while you prepare the cocktail.
- In a mixing glass, add bourbon, amaretto, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters if using.
- Add a handful of ice and stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and slightly dilute.
- Remove the glass from the freezer and, if desired, rub an orange peel along the rim for extra aroma.
- Strain the mixture into the glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange peel twist and, optionally, a maraschino cherry.
Pro Tips
- Choose a bourbon with strong caramel or vanilla notes for balance.
- Use large, clear ice cubes to slow melting and maintain flavor.
- Stir gently too much agitation can over-dilute the drink.
- For more almond richness, increase the amaretto slightly, but keep balance in mind.
- Rubbing the orange peel on the rim intensifies the aroma before sipping.
- A Luxardo cherry works best if adding a garnish.
- Chill your mixing glass beforehand for an even colder drink.
When to Serve
The Almond Old Fashioned is perfect for slow sipping and thoughtful moments. It’s especially suited for cooler evenings, when bourbon’s warmth and amaretto’s nuttiness feel particularly comforting. This cocktail also makes a great pairing with dessert, especially chocolate-based or nut-focused treats. It works well as an after-dinner drink, replacing traditional dessert liqueurs with something slightly more complex yet approachable. The drink’s balance of sweetness, spice, and citrus also makes it a refined choice for intimate gatherings, holiday celebrations, or as a signature cocktail for those who appreciate a classic Old Fashioned with a subtle twist.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Bourbon: Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, or Buffalo Trace for smooth, rich flavors.
- Amaretto: Disaronno for classic almond character, or Lazzaroni for a slightly deeper profile.
- Bitters: Angostura for tradition; Fee Brothers or Regans’ Orange Bitters for citrus notes.
- Garnishes: Fresh navel orange peel and Luxardo cherries for the best quality finish.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon choose a good-quality bottle
- ½ oz amaretto
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash orange bitters optional
- Orange peel for garnish
- Maraschino cherry optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Place an Old Fashioned glass in the freezer to chill while you prepare the cocktail.
- In a mixing glass, add bourbon, amaretto, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters if using.
- Add a handful of ice and stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and slightly dilute.
- Remove the glass from the freezer and, if desired, rub an orange peel along the rim for extra aroma.
- Strain the mixture into the glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange peel twist and, optionally, a maraschino cherry.
Notes
Pro Tips
- A higher-proof bourbon will stand up nicely to the sweetness of amaretto.
- Express the oils from the orange peel over the glass before dropping it in for maximum aroma.
- Large ice cubes work best to slow dilution and keep the drink cold.
