There’s nothing I love more than discovering a cocktail that surprises me—and this Banana Bread Old Fashioned is exactly that kind of drink. It’s the perfect choice for whiskey lovers who crave the familiar warmth of an Old Fashioned but are ready to explore something a little unexpected and refreshingly unique.
I first tried a version of this cocktail while on vacation with my family at a beautiful beach resort. It was one of those perfect days: the sun was shining, the ocean breeze was gentle, and we were all relaxing by the pool without a care in the world. My husband, who rarely strays from his classic Old Fashioned, decided to take a chance on a banana-infused version he spotted on the menu. He’s never been one for fruity drinks, but since it was a hot day and we were in full vacation mode, he figured it was worth a try.
One sip, and he was completely hooked. That cocktail managed to keep all the things he loves about an Old Fashioned: the solid backbone of rye whiskey, the balanced bitterness, and that timeless, sophisticated feel. The crème de banane added a gentle, tropical sweetness that was just enough to make it feel special without tipping into overly sweet territory.
When we got home, I couldn’t stop thinking about that drink and how I might recreate it—and maybe even improve on it. I started experimenting and decided to add Aztec Chocolate bitters and Black Walnut bitters to deepen the flavor and give the cocktail more of a cozy, spiced vibe. The result was this Banana Bread Old Fashioned, which feels like a delicious mash-up between a tropical getaway and a warm, comforting dessert.
Now, every time I stir one up, it takes me back to that sunny day at the beach—and I love that it’s become something uniquely ours.
The Banana Bread Old Fashioned blends rye whiskey, crème de banane, and aromatic bitters for a cozy twist on the classic cocktail. Finished with a fresh banana slice and cinnamon stick, it’s the perfect sip for whiskey lovers craving something unique.