Smoky Maple Old Fashioned

A great bourbon cocktail to pair with this Bourbon Cocktail Steak Marinade is a Smoky Maple Old Fashioned. This drink complements the marinade’s deep caramel, citrus, and smoky notes while enhancing the steak’s bold flavors.

Bold & Smooth | Slightly Sweet | Smoky Finish

Ingredients

  • 2 oz bourbon (same one used in the marinade for continuity)

  • ½ oz maple syrup

  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters

  • 1 dash orange bitters

  • Orange peel (for garnish)

  • Luxardo cherry 

  • Smoked wood chips (hickory or cherrywood, optional for added depth)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Glass: If using smoked wood chips, place them on a fireproof surface, light with a torch, and invert your rocks glass over the smoke for 30 seconds to capture the aroma.

  2. Mix the Cocktail: In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, maple syrup, and both bitters. Add ice and stir for about 20-30 seconds until well chilled.

  3. Serve: Strain into the smoked rocks glass over a large ice cube.

  4. Garnish: Express an orange peel over the drink by twisting it to release its oils, then drop it in. Add a Luxardo cherry if desired.

  5. Enjoy: Sip slowly and let the bourbon’s warmth complement your perfectly marinated steak.

Chef’s Tip

If you want to elevate the smoky effect, briefly torch the orange peel before expressing the oils into the drink. This adds a rich, caramelized aroma that ties in beautifully with the steak’s bourbon glaze.

 
 
 
Chef David Wilmott

Chef • Author • Culinary Entrepreneur

Chef David A. Wilmott is the chef and creative force behind Forks247 and Forks & Flavors. Drawing from years in professional kitchens, catering, private dining, and restaurant experience, he brings chef-level thinking into everyday cooking through recipes, practical kitchen guidance, Kitchen Studio, and the Meal After Meal series. His approach is built around bold flavor, useful technique, and helping home cooks become more confident in the kitchen

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