How to Craft the Perfect Coffee Old Fashioned: A Bold Twist on a Classic Cocktail
The Old Fashioned is one of the most iconic cocktails in history, known for its smooth balance of whiskey, bitters, and sugar. But what happens when you introduce the deep, bold flavors of specialty coffee? You get the Coffee Old Fashioned—a sophisticated, rich, and complex drink that elevates the classic whiskey cocktail with the deep intensity of coffee.
Whether you're a whiskey connoisseur, a coffee enthusiast, or just someone looking for a unique and refined cocktail, the Coffee Old Fashioned is a must-try. With research from Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), World Coffee Research, and Barista Hustle, we’ll guide you through everything from choosing the best coffee to perfecting the balance of flavors.
Why Make a Coffee Old Fashioned?
✔ Elevates classic whiskey flavors with coffee’s depth and caramel notes.
✔ Creates a bold and smooth experience with natural sweetness and bitterness.
✔ Perfect for slow sipping, making it an ideal after-dinner cocktail.
✔ Easily customizable—adjust the sweetness, coffee intensity, and spirit to your taste.
The Perfect Coffee Old Fashioned Recipe
Ingredients & Equipment (Makes 1 Serving)
✔ 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey (choose one with caramel or spice notes)
✔ 0.5 oz coffee liqueur (or cold brew concentrate for a less sweet version)
✔ 1 teaspoon demerara or brown sugar syrup
✔ 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
✔ 1 large ice cube (for slow dilution)
✔ Orange peel (for garnish)
✔ A rocks glass
Step 1: Choose Your Coffee Base
The coffee element in a Coffee Old Fashioned can be introduced in several ways:
✔ Cold Brew Concentrate – Enhances the drink with deep, chocolatey coffee flavors while keeping it smooth.
✔ Coffee Liqueur (like Kahlúa or Mr. Black) – Adds sweetness and a slight bitterness.
✔ Espresso (cooled) – Delivers intensity but can be overpowering if not balanced well.
Best Coffee for a Coffee Old Fashioned:
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Fine Robusta – Krong Năng → Bold caramel, tropical fruit, and deep body.
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Special Vietnam Blend → Balanced chocolate, mild fruit, and smooth texture.
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Specialty Arabica – Cầu Đất → Vibrant acidity with complex spices.
Step 2: Prepare the Cocktail
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Add Sugar & Bitters
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In a rocks glass, add sugar syrup and 2-3 dashes of bitters.
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Stir gently to mix.
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Add Whiskey & Coffee
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Pour in whiskey and your chosen coffee base.
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Stir until well combined.
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Add Ice & Stir
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Place a large ice cube in the glass.
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Stir for about 15-20 seconds to chill and dilute the drink slightly.
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Garnish & Serve
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Express an orange peel over the drink (squeeze the peel to release oils).
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Drop the peel into the glass for extra aroma.
Enjoy your Coffee Old Fashioned—smooth, bold, and rich with layered complexity!
Best Whiskey for a Coffee Old Fashioned
✔ Bourbon – Brings caramel, vanilla, and nutty sweetness, making the cocktail smoother.
✔ Rye Whiskey – Adds spice and depth, creating a more robust and intense profile.
✔ Aged Whiskey – Works well with the bitterness of coffee, enhancing the complexity.
Top Recommendations: Buffalo Trace (bourbon), Rittenhouse Rye, or Woodford Reserve.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Coffee Old Fashioned
✔ Use high-quality, fresh coffee – Specialty coffee enhances depth and complexity.
✔ Balance sweetness & bitterness – Adjust sugar and bitters based on your coffee choice.
✔ Experiment with different spirits – Try rum, mezcal, or even cognac for a unique variation.
✔ Use a slow-melting ice cube – Prevents over-dilution while keeping the drink chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between a Coffee Old Fashioned and an Espresso Martini?
A Coffee Old Fashioned is spirit-forward, using whiskey with coffee for a bold and smoky taste. An Espresso Martini is shaken with vodka, espresso, and coffee liqueur, resulting in a frothy, slightly sweet cocktail.
Can I make a Coffee Old Fashioned without coffee liqueur?
Yes! You can use cold brew concentrate or cooled espresso for a less sweet, more intense coffee experience.
What type of coffee works best?
Dark and medium roasts with caramel, chocolate, or nutty notes work well. Fine Robusta – Krong Năng is an excellent choice for bold coffee flavors that hold up to whiskey.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of a Coffee Old Fashioned?
Absolutely! Replace whiskey with non-alcoholic bourbon alternatives or use smoked cold brew for a similar depth of flavor.
Can I use an old-fashioned coffee pot to make the coffee?
Yes! If you want a classic brewing experience, an old-fashioned stovetop coffee pot (like a percolator) creates bold, rich coffee that works well for this cocktail.
Take Your Coffee Cocktails to the Next Level with Bazan Coffee
A Coffee Old Fashioned is all about depth, boldness, and balance. To craft the best version, you need specialty coffee that enhances whiskey’s caramelized richness.
The New Revolution: Fine Robusta from Vietnam
Vietnam’s Fine Robusta is transforming specialty coffee. With rich, natural sweetness and deep body, it’s perfect for pairing with whiskey in cocktails.
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Grown at 650m in Krong Năng, Đắk Lắk, Vietnam
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72-hour natural anaerobic fermentation for smoothness
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Taste Notes: Durian, honey, caramel
This low-acid, deeply flavorful coffee holds up beautifully in cocktails and slow sippers.
Not Just Robusta—The Best of Both Worlds
For a balanced, versatile cold brew, Special Vietnam Blend offers ripe fruit, chocolate, and mild caramel.
If you prefer a bright, refined espresso base, Specialty Arabica – Cầu Đất brings bell pepper, spices, and caramel complexity, making it perfect for layered cocktails.
Which Coffee Works Best for a Coffee Old Fashioned?
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Want a bold, caramelized coffee with whiskey? → Fine Robusta – Krong Năng
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Looking for a smooth, chocolatey cold brew base? → Special Vietnam Blend
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Prefer an espresso with bright, spiced notes? → Specialty Arabica – Cầu Đất
Your perfect Coffee Old Fashioned starts with premium coffee. Shop Bazan Coffee’s Finest Espresso & Cocktail Blends Now and elevate your cocktail game.