We’ve always loved the classic Old Fashioned for its timeless appeal, but our Fig Old Fashioned recipe adds a fresh twist that elevates it to new heights. By infusing the rich, caramel-like notes of figs into this whiskey-based cocktail, we create a drink that’s both sophisticated and seasonally inspired—perfect for cozy evenings or elegant parties.
This variation honors the original’s roots while introducing a fruity depth that surprises the palate. We’re excited to share how simple tweaks can turn a staple into your next go-to favorite, blending tradition with innovation in every sip.
Ingredients
In our Fig Old Fashioned recipe, we elevate the classic cocktail by incorporating fresh figs for a rich, caramel-like depth that complements the bourbon’s warmth. Below, we list the ingredients in the order they are used, with prep specifics for accuracy and ease.
- Fresh figs: 2 medium figs, ripe and halved, for muddling to release their sweet, jammy flavors.
- Sugar cube or simple syrup: 1 sugar cube (or ½ ounce simple syrup), to balance the bitters and enhance the figs’ natural sweetness.
- Angostura bitters: 2 dashes, added for their spicy, aromatic notes that tie the drink together.
- Bourbon: 2 ounces of a high-quality bourbon, such as one with vanilla undertones, to form the base of our Fig Old Fashioned.
- Ice cubes: A handful, for chilling and diluting the cocktail slightly as it’s stirred.
- Orange peel: 1 strip, for garnishing and adding a citrusy zest that brightens the final presentation.
Equipment Needed
To craft our Fig Old Fashioned cocktail with precision, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure every step from muddling to serving enhances the drink’s rich, caramel-like notes from the figs.
Essential Tools
Before we dive into mixing our Fig Old Fashioned, let’s outline the Essential Tools we need. These items help us achieve the perfect balance of flavors while making the preparation straightforward and efficient.
- Muddler: This tool is crucial for gently crushing the fresh figs to release their sweet, juicy essence, allowing the flavors to infuse seamlessly into the bourbon.
- Jigger or Measuring Tool: We use this to measure ingredients like bourbon and bitters accurately, ensuring our cocktail maintains the traditional Old Fashioned proportions for a sophisticated taste.
- Mixing Glass: A sturdy glass where we combine and stir the ingredients, helping to blend the fig’s caramel notes with the bitters without dilution.
- Bar Spoon: Ideal for stirring the mixture gently, which preserves the cocktail’s clarity and allows the fig-infused flavors to develop fully.
- Fine Strainer: We employ this to filter out any pulp or solids from the muddled figs, resulting in a smooth, refined drink.
- Old Fashioned Glass: Specifically designed for serving, this lowball glass highlights the cocktail’s presentation and keeps the ice in place for a chilled experience.
With these tools at hand, we’re all set to transition smoothly from gathering ingredients to creating our Fig Old Fashioned masterpiece.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through crafting the Fig Old Fashioned with precision and ease. Let’s create a cocktail that balances rich, caramel-like fig notes with the classic warmth of bourbon.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin mixing, we ensure all components are prepped for optimal flavor infusion. Start by washing 4 fresh figs under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel; this removes any impurities and highlights their juicy texture. Measure out ½ ounce of simple syrup or sugar, 2 dashes of Angostura bitters, and 2 ounces of high-quality bourbon using a jigger for accuracy—pouring the bourbon slowly to appreciate its smooth, amber hue. Prepare ice cubes by filling a bowl with fresh ones, and cut a wide strip of orange peel from a fresh orange using a peeler, aiming for a twist that releases aromatic oils when expressed over the drink.
Muddle the Figs
Next, we muddle the figs to extract their sweet, earthy essence, transforming them into a fragrant base for our cocktail. Place the 4 prepared figs into a mixing glass and use a muddler to gently press and twist them for about 10-15 seconds until they break down into a pulpy mixture—the figs should release a vibrant, jammy aroma that hints at caramel and honey notes, enhancing the drink’s complexity. Be careful not to over-muddle; stop once you see the juices flowing freely to avoid bitterness from the skins.
Build the Cocktail
With the figs muddled, we build the cocktail by layering in the remaining elements for a harmonious blend. Add the ½ ounce of simple syrup and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters directly into the mixing glass with the muddled figs, then pour in the 2 ounces of bourbon. Top with ice cubes to fill the glass about halfway, allowing the cold temperature to mellow the spirits while the figs infuse their flavors—envision the bourbon’s spicy oak undertones mingling with the figs’ sweetness for a sophisticated Fig Old Fashioned profile.
Stir and Strain
Finally, we stir and strain the mixture to achieve a smooth, refined finish that elevates the cocktail’s sensory appeal. Use a bar spoon to stir the contents gently for 20-30 seconds until chilled and well-integrated—the liquid should take on a deep, inviting color with hints of fig pulp swirling in. Place a fine strainer over an Old Fashioned glass filled with fresh ice cubes, then strain the mixture into the glass to remove any solids, ensuring a clean pour. Express the orange peel over the drink to release its citrus oils, then drop it in as a garnish, revealing a cocktail with a velvety texture and aromas that promise a delightful, balanced sip.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To streamline your cocktail preparation and ensure a seamless experience—especially for gatherings or busy evenings—we recommend making components of the Fig Old Fashioned ahead of time. This approach allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the cocktail’s rich, caramel-like notes from the figs while preserving the drink’s sophisticated balance.
Preparing the Fig Infusion
We suggest starting with the figs, as they form the heart of this cocktail’s innovative twist. Begin by muddling 4-6 fresh figs with 2 tablespoons of simple syrup in a mixing bowl. This step extracts the figs’ sweet, jammy essence, creating a vibrant base that infuses the bourbon with deeper, seasonal flavors. Once muddled, transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This advance preparation not only saves time but also intensifies the figs’ natural sweetness, making your Fig Old Fashioned even more aromatic and inviting.
Making Simple Syrup in Advance
Simple syrup is a key element for balancing the cocktail’s profile, and we find it’s easiest to prepare it ahead. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water and heat over medium until fully dissolved—about 5 minutes. For a fig-forward variation, add 2 chopped figs to the mixture while heating, then strain before storing. Cool the syrup completely, then pour it into a sealed jar and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 2 weeks, providing a consistent, velvety sweetness that complements the bourbon’s warmth without overwhelming the drink’s classic structure.
Storing and Assembling Ingredients
To maintain the cocktail’s fresh, refined quality, organize your other components in advance. Measure out 2 ounces of high-quality bourbon, 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters, and store them in separate containers at room temperature. For the garnish, prepare the orange peel by zesting and storing it in the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic, for up to 48 hours—this ensures it retains its zesty, citrusy aroma for a perfect finishing touch.
| Component | Preparation Time | Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fig Mixture | 5-10 minutes | Airtight container in fridge | Up to 24 hours |
| Simple Syrup | 5 minutes | Sealed jar in fridge | Up to 2 weeks |
| Measured Bourbon | 1 minute | Room temperature bottle | Indefinite (if sealed) |
| Orange Peel | 2 minutes | Wrapped in fridge | Up to 48 hours |
When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the pre-prepared elements following our step-by-step instructions from the previous section. This method keeps the cocktail’s flavors bold and balanced, allowing you to enjoy a effortlessly elegant Fig Old Fashioned every time.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring this fig-infused twist on the classic Old Fashioned, blending rich flavors that elevate your cocktail game. It’s a simple yet sophisticated choice that’ll impress at any gathering.
As we wrap up, we’re confident you’ll enjoy experimenting with this recipe—it’s our go-to for adding seasonal depth while keeping things balanced and bold. Cheers to crafting memories one sip at a time!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Fig Old Fashioned?
A Fig Old Fashioned is a creative twist on the classic cocktail, incorporating fresh figs for rich, caramel-like flavors. It maintains the traditional structure with bourbon and bitters but adds seasonal depth, making it perfect for sophisticated gatherings or cozy evenings.
What ingredients are needed for a Fig Old Fashioned?
You’ll need fresh figs for sweetness, simple syrup or sugar, Angostura bitters, high-quality bourbon, ice cubes, and an orange peel for garnish. These elements blend to create a balanced, flavorful drink that enhances the original Old Fashioned with fruity notes.
How do you make a Fig Old Fashioned?
Start by muddling fresh figs with simple syrup in a mixing glass. Add bourbon, bitters, and ice, then stir until chilled. Strain into an Old Fashioned glass over fresh ice and garnish with an expressed orange peel. The process takes about 5 minutes and yields a smooth, sophisticated cocktail.
What tools are required to prepare a Fig Old Fashioned?
Essential tools include a muddler for crushing figs, a jigger for measuring, a mixing glass, bar spoon for stirring, fine strainer for a smooth pour, and an Old Fashioned glass for serving. These ensure precise flavor balance and a professional finish.
Can I prepare a Fig Old Fashioned in advance?
Yes, make a fig infusion by muddling figs with simple syrup up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it. Simple syrup can be prepared and stored for up to two weeks. When ready, combine with bourbon and bitters for a quick, fresh cocktail without losing flavor.
Why should I try a Fig Old Fashioned?
It adds innovative, seasonal figs to the classic recipe, introducing caramel-like notes that enhance bourbon’s warmth. This variation honors tradition while offering a refreshing twist, ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a unique fall drink with minimal effort.