Sometimes, the end of a long day deserves something a little different—something that feels like a hug in a glass. The Banana Bread Old Fashioned Cocktail is exactly that: a comforting blend of familiar flavors wrapped in the gentle kick of bourbon. It’s the kind of drink that invites you to slow down, sip, and savor.
I remember the first time I tried this cocktail. The evening was unremarkably chilly, and I was fumbling with a few ingredients while the radio played softly in the background. I wasn’t sure if the banana liqueur would really work with the classic Old Fashioned setup, but as the aromas mingled—the warm maple syrup, the bitters, a whisper of cinnamon—I found myself smiling before the first sip. It was a little imperfect; I accidentally dropped the cinnamon stick on the floor, but that didn’t matter. The drink had a way of making the moment feel just a touch magical, like rediscovering a childhood favorite in adult form.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Combines the deep, smooth warmth of bourbon with the nostalgic sweetness of banana bread flavors.
- The maple syrup adds a natural richness that balances the bitters and boozy notes perfectly.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No fancy equipment, just a thoughtful stir and a few garnishes.
- Garnishes like a banana slice and cinnamon stick aren’t just pretty; they add subtle smells and textures that elevate the experience.
If you’re not usually into cocktails, this one might just surprise you. It’s familiar enough to feel approachable but different enough to be memorable.
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Banana Bread Old Fashioned Cocktail
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 1x
Description
A rich and flavorful twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, infused with the warm, comforting flavors of banana bread. This cocktail combines bourbon with banana liqueur, maple syrup, and a hint of spice to create a deliciously nostalgic drink.
Ingredients
2 ounces bourbon
0.5 ounce banana liqueur
0.25 ounce pure maple syrup
2 dashes Angostura bitters
1 dash orange bitters
1 banana slice, for garnish
1 cinnamon stick, for garnish
Ice cubes
Instructions
Add the bourbon, banana liqueur, pure maple syrup, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters into a mixing glass.
Fill the mixing glass with ice cubes and stir gently for about 30 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted.
Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
Garnish with a banana slice and a cinnamon stick.
Serve immediately and enjoy your Banana Bread Old Fashioned Cocktail.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
Kitchen Notes: You don’t need any special tools beyond a glass and something to stir with. Fresh ice makes a difference—try to use cubes that don’t melt too fast, or the drink can get watery. I’ve tried swapping the banana liqueur for a splash of banana extract once, but it’s not quite the same; the liqueur brings a richer, more authentic flavor. If you like your drinks a bit sweeter, adding a tiny extra drizzle of maple syrup works, though it might make it a touch cloying. For a little extra warmth, swirling the cinnamon stick gently before garnishing releases more aroma, but don’t overdo it or it gets bitter. Pair this cocktail with a cozy evening in, maybe alongside a book or your favorite playlist. It’s not a crowd-pleaser for every palate, so it’s perfect for when you want something special just for yourself.
FAQ
Can I make this cocktail ahead of time? It’s best fresh, but if you mix it without ice and keep it chilled, try to drink it within 24 hours.
What if I don’t have banana liqueur? You might experiment with banana-flavored syrup, but the richness will be different—less boozy, more sweet.
Is this cocktail strong? It has a good kick from the bourbon, but the maple syrup and liqueur soften the edges nicely.
Ready to turn an ordinary night into something a little more memorable? Give this Banana Bread Old Fashioned a try and enjoy the cozy vibes it brings.