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Vanilla Bean Old Fashioned Recipe

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4.1 from 3 reviews

The Vanilla Bean Old Fashioned is a sophisticated twist on the classic cocktail, featuring a rich homemade vanilla bean simple syrup that adds a smooth, aromatic sweetness to the bold bourbon base. Enhanced with orange zest, bitters, and a Luxardo cherry garnish, this cocktail balances warmth and elegance in each sip, perfect for a refined evening drink.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving
  • Category: Cocktail
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Vanilla Bean Simple Syrup

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 fresh vanilla bean, cut in half lengthwise and scraped

Cocktail

  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 1/2 oz vanilla bean simple syrup
  • 4 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 2 inch zest of an orange
  • 1 Luxardo cherry
  • Ice (large cubes)
  • Vanilla bean for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make Vanilla Bean Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water, 1 cup granulated sugar, and the seeds and pod of one vanilla bean (cut and scraped). Whisk the mixture and bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and let it steep with the vanilla bean pod until cooled. Transfer the syrup to a mason jar and refrigerate until ready to use.
  2. Prepare Cocktail: Fill a cocktail mixing glass with large ice cubes. Add 2 oz bourbon, 1/2 oz vanilla bean simple syrup, and 4 dashes of Angostura bitters.
  3. Stir Cocktail: Stir the ingredients well to chill and properly dilute the bourbon, ensuring a balanced flavor and smooth texture.
  4. Strain and Serve: Strain the chilled cocktail into a glass with one large ice cube to keep the drink cool without watering it down quickly.
  5. Garnish: Take a slice of orange zest and gently crush it over the glass to express its oils, then add it to the drink. Garnish further with a Luxardo cherry and optionally a vanilla bean for a striking presentation and enhanced aroma.

Notes

  • Keep the vanilla bean pod in the syrup to continue infusing flavor over time.
  • The simple syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • Using large ice cubes slows melting and prevents the cocktail from diluting too quickly.
  • Luxardo cherries add a rich, sweet flavor that complements the bourbon perfectly.
  • Expressing the orange oils adds citrus brightness and depth to the drink.

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/vanilla-bean-old-fashioned-recipe/