Espresso Old Fashioned Recipe – The Espresso Old Fashioned is a sophisticated fusion of two beloved classics—the timeless Old Fashioned and the rich depth of espresso. It delivers a bold, aromatic cocktail that balances the warmth of bourbon with the roasted intensity of coffee, creating a drink that feels luxurious, energizing, and perfect for after-dinner enjoyment. The keyword Espresso Old Fashioned Recipe appears here naturally to introduce a modern cocktail that bridges the worlds of mixology and coffee culture.
Credit @theroastersdaughterofficial from Instagram
Recipe Overview
Cuisines: American / Contemporary Cocktail
Course: Beverage / Whiskey Cocktail
Servings: 1 drink
Calories (approx.): 170–190 kcal
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Active Time: 5 minutes
Resting Time: None
Total Time: 5 minutes
Equipment Needed
Rocks glass
Mixing glass
Bar spoon
Jigger
Fine strainer (optional)
Ice (preferably a large cube)
Citrus peeler
Ingredients
2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
½ oz freshly brewed espresso (cooled)
¼ oz simple syrup or demerara syrup
2 dashes Angostura bitters
1 dash chocolate or coffee bitters (optional)
Ice
Garnish Options
Orange peel
Coffee beans
Luxardo cherry
Instructions
Chill the glass Add a large ice cube to a rocks glass and set aside.
Build in a mixing glass Combine bourbon, cooled espresso, simple syrup, and bitters.
Add ice and stir Fill with ice and stir gently for 20–25 seconds until chilled and diluted.
Strain Strain into the prepared rocks glass over the large cube.
Garnish Express orange peel oils over the drink and drop it in. Add coffee beans or a cherry if desired.
Serve immediately and sip slowly.
Nutrition Table (Per Serving – Estimated)
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
170–190 kcal
Carbohydrates
6–8 g
Sugars
5–7 g
Protein
0 g
Fat
0 g
Fiber
0 g
Sodium
<5 mg
Potassium
20–40 mg
Alcohol Content
~20–25% ABV (varies by whiskey)
Values vary by syrup and espresso strength.
Tips & Variations
Stronger coffee flavor: Increase espresso to ¾ oz.
Sweeter style: Add a bar spoon more syrup.
Smoky twist: Use a peated whiskey.
Vanilla note: Use vanilla-infused syrup.
Mocktail: Replace whiskey with cold brew and oak syrup.
Final Thoughts
This coffee-infused whiskey cocktail is a refined alternative to dessert drinks—less sweet, more nuanced, and deeply comforting. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, you can create a drink that feels elevated and memorable. Whether you’re winding down after a meal or impressing guests, this cocktail delivers warmth, elegance, and bold flavor in every sip.