The Old Fashioned is a time-honored concoction that dates back to the early nineteenth century. This iconic beverage is traditionally prepared with sugar, bitters, alcohol, and a twist of citrus rind.
One variation involves substituting simple syrup for granulated sugar in order to obtain a smoother, more uniform sweetness.
In this article, we will instruct you on how to make an Old Fashioned with simple syrup, including advice on proportions, stirring techniques, and the best types of whiskey.
Can You Use Simple Syrup Instead Of Sugar For An Old Fashioned?
Yes, simple syrup can be substituted for sugar in an Old Fashioned. Simple syrup, a 1:1 mixture of sugar and water, dissolves more readily than granulated sugar, resulting in a drink that is smoother and more consistent.
Typically, you would substitute approximately 1/2 ounce of simple syrup for the sugar crystal or teaspoon of sugar in an Old Fashioned. Additionally, the use of simple syrup can expedite the preparation process, making it easier to serve multiple beverages.
How To Make An Old Fashioned With Simple Syrup?
While traditionally made with a sugar cube, using simple syrup can streamline the process and make it easier to mix. Here’s how to make an Old Fashioned with simple syrup.
Time Required
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
- 1/4 oz Simple Syrup (adjust to taste)
- 2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Ice cubes
- Orange twist or cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: Fill an Old Fashioned glass with one large or several smaller ice cubes.
- Add Simple Syrup: Pour ¼ fluid ounce of simple syrup into the glass.
- Add Bitters: Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters to the glass.
- Stir: Briefly combine the syrup and bitters with the ice by stirring them together.
- Add Whiskey: Pour 2 oz of your chosen whiskey into the glass.
- Stir Again: Repeatedly stir the cocktail to incorporate the ingredients. You should stir just enough to slightly dilute the whiskey and blend the flavors without watering down the cocktail.
- Garnish: Add an orange twist or cherry to the glass for garnish.
- Serve: Your Old Fashioned is ready to be enjoyed.
Tips
- Use high-quality whiskey, as it is the focal point of the drink.
- Large ice cubes dissolve more slowly, prolonging the potency of your beverage.
- You can create your own simple syrup by dissolving sugar and hot water in equal amounts. Allow it to settle down prior to use.
- Feel free to experiment with various bitters to discover the flavor profile you prefer.
- While an orange twist is the standard garnish, a cherry can contribute a different type of sweetness.
- The quantity of simple syrup can be altered based on how sweet you like your cocktails.
- Using the appropriate glass (Old Fashioned glass) can improve the imbibing experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a small appetizer or finger food to complement the strong flavors of the drink.
Why Use Simple Syrup Instead Of Sugar?
In liquid preparations, such as cocktails and cold beverages, simple syrup has several advantages over sugar. The effortless dissolution of simple syrup ensures a smooth, lump-free texture.
This is particularly beneficial in cold beverages where sugar may not dissolve completely. It also permits greater control over sweetness levels and expedites preparation by eliminating the need to agitate sugar until it dissolves.
Infusing simple syrup with flavors such as vanilla, mint, or citrus adds an additional dimension of complexity to recipes.
Bottom Line
This was all about how to make an old-fashioned with simple syrup. Making an Old Fashioned with simple syrup is a convenient and effective method for preparing this classic drink. The simple syrup enables easier blending and a more uniform sweetness, thereby enhancing the flavor harmony of the whiskey, bitters, and citrus.
Mastering the art of creating an Old Fashioned with simple syrup will add a refined touch to your mixology skills, regardless of whether you are a cocktail connoisseur or a casual drinker.
Read More: What Can You Use In Place Of Cornstarch?