Walnut Maple Old Fashioned

We love to make rye drinks in our house — it’s bold, spicy, and makes a killer cocktail. But after a while, you crave a little variation. That’s where this Walnut Maple Old Fashioned comes in. It’s our go-to when we want something that still feels familiar, but with a rich, slightly sweet edge.

What makes this cocktail great is that you don’t need a super high-end rye to enjoy it. The other flavors — especially the walnut bitters and maple — bring a ton of complexity, so even an everyday bottle will do the job beautifully. That makes it an affordable, approachable way to keep things interesting without sacrificing depth.

The maple syrup adds just enough sweetness and richness to round everything out. You can absolutely use standard pure maple syrup, but if you want to take it up a notch, try the WhistlePig Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup. It’s aged in whiskey barrels and adds a smoky, woody undertone that works so well with the rye and bitters. A little goes a long way.

The walnut bitters are the secret weapon in this drink. They add warmth and nutty depth without overpowering anything. Three dashes are enough to make their presence known without throwing the balance off. And when you finish the drink with both an orange and lemon peel? You get that perfect balance of citrus brightness and cozy spice.

This cocktail feels especially at home in the fall and winter months, but honestly? It works year-round. It’s smooth, slightly sweet, and can easily become a new favorite.

🧀 Pairing Suggestion

• Spiced nuts or a charcuterie board
• Pulled pork sliders
• Sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda

Print Recipe

Walnut Maple Old Fashioned

Cooking Method: Stir Cuisine: Cocktails Courses: Drinks Recipe Keys: Cocktail Party

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 5 mins Total Time 10 mins

Servings: 1

Description

A cozy twist on the classic old fashioned made with rye, walnut bitters, and a touch of maple. Garnished with orange and lemon peel for a bold, balanced sip.

Ingredients

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Servings

For the Drink

• 3 oz rye whiskey (no need for top shelf)
• ¹⁄₂ oz sweet vermouth
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoons maple syrup (or more to taste)
• 3 dashes walnut bitters

For Garnish

• Orange peel twist
• Lemon peel twist

Instructions

1. Build the Drink

   In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, maple syrup, and walnut bitters. Stir for about 20–30 seconds until well chilled.

2. Serve

   Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.

3. Garnish

   Express an orange and lemon peel over the glass to release the oils, then twist and drop into the drink.

Note

• make sure to start with a little of the maple syrup and add more to taste. Too much can be over powering

Keywords: maple walnut old fashioned, whiskey cocktail with maple syrup, walnut bitters cocktail, easy old fashioned variation, rye whiskey cocktail, fall old fashioned drink, bitters and maple syrup cocktail

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