Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned Recipe

The Old Fashioned stands as one of the most popular whiskey drinks around the globe. This classic cocktail combines bourbon with a touch of sweetness and bitters for a simple yet amazing drink. People have enjoyed this mix for generations, and it continues to be a favorite at bars and homes everywhere.

Last winter, my friend came over for dinner. She brought a bottle of Buffalo Trace bourbon as a gift. We decided to make cocktails before our meal.

I grabbed my rocks glass and started mixing the Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned Recipe that I had learned from my grandfather.

The process was easy, but the result amazed both of us. The rich flavor of the bourbon paired beautifully with just a bit of sugar and aromatic bitters.

That evening taught me something important. You don’t need complicated ingredients or advanced skills to create something special. This cocktail proves that sometimes the best things come from keeping it simple.

Today, I’m sharing this Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned Recipe with you. Get ready to learn how to make this timeless drink in your own kitchen.

You’ll LOVE This Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned Because

This cocktail delivers bold flavor without requiring any mixology training. You only need a handful of ingredients that work together perfectly.

The Buffalo Trace bourbon provides smooth, caramel notes that blend wonderfully with the sweetness from the sugar cube. Those few drops of bitters add depth and complexity to each sip.

Making this drink takes less than five minutes from start to finish. You won’t spend hours in the kitchen or need expensive equipment. Everything comes together quickly in one glass.

The recipe works great for quiet evenings at home or when friends stop by unexpectedly. Each ingredient plays an important role, creating balance that highlights the quality of the bourbon without covering it up.

Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned Ingredients

• Buffalo Trace Bourbon: This is the base of the drink. It has a rich and warm flavor. The bourbon gives the cocktail its smooth body. A different bourbon can be used, but the taste may change a little.
• Sugar Cube: The sugar cube adds a soft sweetness. It balances the bitters and the strong flavor of the bourbon. Simple syrup can be used if a cube is not on hand.
• Angostura Bitters: These bitters add depth and a hint of spice. Just a few drops make a big difference. Orange bitters or another mild aromatic bitter can also work.
• Orange Peel: This gives the drink a bright smell and a light citrus touch. A lemon peel can be used if orange is not available.
• Ice Cubes: They help chill the drink and make it smooth to sip. Clear ice works well because it melts slowly and keeps the flavor steady.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

You do not need a bar full of tools. A few basic items are all that is required.

1. Rocks Glass (Lowball Glass): The short, sturdy glass for serving.
2. Jigger or Small Measuring Cup: For measuring the bourbon.
3. Muddler or Wooden Spoon: To crush the sugar cube.
4. Vegetable Peeler or Sharp Knife: To cut the orange peel.
5. Bar Spoon (or a regular spoon): For stirring the cocktail.

How To Make A Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned

Step 1 | Prepare the Glass

Take your rocks glass. Place one sugar cube right in the bottom of the empty glass. Then, add three or four good dashes of the Angostura bitters directly onto the sugar cube. You will see the red liquid soak into the cube.

Step 2 | Muddle the Sugar

Now, use your muddler or the back of a wooden spoon. Gently press down on the sugar cube and twist.

You are crushing the cube and mixing it with the bitters. Do this until the sugar is mostly broken down into a wet, grainy paste at the bottom of the glass.

Step 3 | Add the First Bourbon and Ice

Place one large ice cube into the glass. Pour one ounce of Buffalo Trace bourbon over the ice. Take your bar spoon and stir everything together. Stir for about 15 to 30 seconds. This starts to chill the drink and dissolve the sugar.

Step 4 | Add More Bourbon and Stir

Now, pour in a second ounce of Buffalo Trace bourbon. Stir again, this time for a full 30 to 45 seconds.

You want to mix it very well and get the whole drink nice and cold. The stirring motion should be smooth, going around the edge of the glass.

Step 5 | Final Ice and Garnish

Add one more large ice cube to the glass. Take your piece of orange peel. Hold it over the glass with the skin side facing down.

Gently twist the peel to release its citrus oils. You might even see a little mist come out. Rub the peel around the rim of the glass and then drop it right into the drink. Your Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned is ready.

Pro Tips For Making This Recipe

Here are a few extra ideas to make your drink even better.

• Chill Your Glass First: For an extra-cold drink, put your empty rocks glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes before you start.
• Express the Orange Peel Correctly: When you twist the orange peel over the drink, do it close to the surface. This makes sure the citrus oils land in your cocktail, adding a great aroma.
• Control the Sweetness: If you like a less sweet drink, start with a half teaspoon of simple syrup instead of a full sugar cube. You can always add more next time.
• Try a Different Garnish: A Luxardo cherry makes a nice addition alongside the orange peel for a touch of extra fruit flavor.

How to Serve This Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned

This cocktail is best served by itself. It is a drink to be sipped and enjoyed slowly. The perfect time for this Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned Recipe is at the end of the day.

It is great when you are relaxing alone. It is also a wonderful drink to offer a guest. You can serve it with a few small snacks. Some roasted nuts, a piece of dark chocolate, or a simple cheese plate are all excellent choices.

The key is to keep the food simple. You do not want to overpower the delicate flavors of the cocktail. Always hold the glass by the rim or the base so the heat from your hand does not warm the drink too quickly.

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can get a head start on this recipe. Make an Old Fashioned mixture ahead of time by combining the bourbon, sugar, and bitters in a small bottle or jar.

Do not add ice or the orange peel. Keep this mixture in a cool, dark place. It will be fine for several weeks. When you are ready for a drink, just stir two ounces of your pre-made mixture with ice in a glass.

Then, add your fresh orange peel garnish. A prepared cocktail with ice will not store well, so it is always best to mix it fresh.

Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned Recipe FAQs

1. How strong is a Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned?

The drink is made with 2 ounces of bourbon, so it has a moderate alcohol level. It feels smooth, not harsh. The sugar and bitters help balance the strength, making it easy to sip slowly.

2. Can I use a different bourbon?

Yes, other bourbons can work. The flavor may change a bit depending on the brand. Buffalo Trace gives a warm, balanced taste, which is why it’s often chosen for this cocktail.

3. What can I use instead of a sugar cube?

Simple syrup works well as a substitute. About half a teaspoon of syrup replaces one sugar cube. It mixes faster and saves a step.

4. Do I need bitters for this drink?

Yes, bitters are a key part of this cocktail. They add depth and bring balance to the sweet and strong flavors. Without them, the drink may taste too sweet.

5. Can I make a non-alcoholic version?

Yes, a mocktail version can be made. Replace bourbon with a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative or iced black tea. Add the sugar, bitters substitute, and orange peel for a similar flavor experience.

6. Should the orange peel be fresh?

Yes, fresh orange peel works best. It releases bright oils that add scent and light citrus taste. Dry peel does not give the same fresh touch.

The Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned Recipe is a timeless drink that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

It’s warm, smooth, and full of simple flavors. With just bourbon, sugar, bitters, and orange peel, it turns into something special. It’s a great way to slow down and enjoy a moment.