Delicious Christmas Old Fashioned with a Maple Twist
Last Updated on May 8, 2026 by juliarecipez
There’s a certain joy that fills the air during the holiday season a sweet blend of laughter, the warmth of family, and the delicious aroma wafting from the kitchen. One evening while decorating gingerbread cookies, I felt a longing for a drink that could capture this essence. I decided to craft something special, a twist on the classic Old Fashioned that would become my go-to holiday cocktail: the Maple Cardamom Old Fashioned.
Imagine curling up by the fire, savoring the rich notes of bourbon mingled with the cozy spices of cinnamon and cardamom, all perfectly balanced with a hint of maple sweetness. This drink isn’t just a cocktail; it’s a comforting embrace of the season, easy enough to whip up in just 15 minutes, yet impressive enough to wow your guests.
So, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening in, this Maple Cardamom Old Fashioned is bound to elevate those cozy moments into unforgettable memories. Ready to craft your perfect holiday drink? Let s dive in!
Why will you love this Christmas Old Fashioned?
Festive Flavor Fusion: This cocktail blends classic Old Fashioned elements with the warm, inviting flavors of maple and cardamom, perfect for holiday cheers.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, it s the ideal solution for last-minute entertaining.
Impressive Presentation: Serve it in a stylish glass over ice and watch your guests faces light up!
Customizable: Whether you’re a bourbon lover or prefer a lighter twist, adjust the maple and spices to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This drink appeals to both cocktail enthusiasts and those new to mixology, making it a hit for everyone at your gathering.
Christmas Old Fashioned Ingredients
Get ready to mix up a festive delight!
For the Cocktail Base
- ½ cup maple syrup adds a natural sweetness that perfectly complements the bourbon.
- 1 cinnamon stick (or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon) infuses a warm, seasonal spice.
- 1 tbsp cardamom pods (lightly crushed or ½ teaspoon ground cardamom) lends a fragrant touch that’s a holiday favorite.
- 8 oz bourbon offers a rich, smooth base that forms the heart of this cocktail.
- 4 oz lemon juice brightens the drink and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 4 oz orange juice adds a zesty freshness that elevates the entire flavor profile.
- 3-4 dashes bitters a dash of complexity that enhances every sip.
For the Sweetener
- â -½ cup maple cardamom syrup doubles down on the maple flavor while introducing a unique spiced sweetness.
For the Sparkling Finish
- 3-4 (12 oz) ginger beer brings a fizzy kick that makes this Christmas Old Fashioned truly festive.
How to Make Christmas Old Fashioned
Combine Ingredients: In a pitcher, mix together the maple syrup, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, bourbon, lemon juice, orange juice, and bitters. This creates a harmonious base that’s bursting with festive flavors.
Stir Together: Give the mixture a good stir until all the ingredients are well combined, ensuring the flavors mingle beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell the aroma of the spices!
Add Sweetness: Incorporate the maple cardamom syrup and stir again. This adds delightful layers of sweetness that enhance the complexity of your Christmas Old Fashioned.
Serve Over Ice: Fill glasses with ice and pour the cocktail mixture over the top. The ice will help chill the drink, setting the stage for a refreshing sip.
Top with Fizz: Finish off each glass with ginger beer. Watch as it bubbles and fizzes to life, adding a delightful sparkle that captures the festive spirit.
Optional: Garnish with a slice of orange or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an added festive flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for the Best Christmas Old Fashioned
Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly squeezed citrus juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice may lack the brightness your Christmas Old Fashioned deserves.
Balance Sweetness: Adjust the maple syrup to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, start with less syrup and add more if needed.
Quality Bourbon: Opt for a good quality bourbon. It forms the base of your drink, and a better bourbon will enhance the overall taste of your cocktail.
Chill Your Glasses: Chill your serving glasses in advance for a more refreshing drink. You ll love the contrast of the cold glass against the warm spices.
Garnish for Flair: Don t skip the optional garnishes! A slice of orange or a sprinkle of cinnamon not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the drink’s aroma.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Old Fashioned cocktails are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prep the cocktail base combining the maple syrup, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, bourbon, lemon juice, orange juice, and bitters up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to preserve the flavors. When you’re ready to serve, give it a good stir, add the maple cardamom syrup, and pour the mixture over ice. Finish each glass with ginger beer for that essential fizz. This way, you ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing cocktail with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy your holiday gatherings even more!
What to Serve with Christmas Old Fashioned?
Let your holiday gatherings shine brighter with the perfect pairings to complement this festive cocktail.
Spiced Nuts: These crunchy, savory snacks bring warmth and richness that enhances the aromatic spices in your drink. Their crunch is a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the Old Fashioned.
Honey-Glazed Charcuterie Board: Charcuterie laden with sweet and salty bites elevates the sipping experience. Offer a variety of cheeses alongside fruit preserves to create a feast of flavors.
Cinnamon Rolls: The warm, sweet, and gooey cinnamon rolls mirror the cozy notes of the cocktail, making every sip and bite feel like a hug.
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized exterior and earthy flavor provide a delicious balance to the sweetness of the Christmas Old Fashioned. Each bite brings out the drink s spiced undertones beautifully.
Dark Chocolate Truffles: Indulge your sweet tooth with rich truffles that echo the drink’s maple hints while adding a velvety texture in every mouthful.
Gingerbread Cookies: These festive favorites harmonize with the ginger beer s kick, allowing each cookie to playfully dance with the flavors of the cocktail.
Sparkling Apple Cider: Enhance the cheer with bubbly, refreshing cider, adding a complimentary sweetness that celebrates the festive spirit.
Cranberry Orange Muffins: Light and tangy, these muffins balance the cocktail’s richness, creating a delightful duo that feels perfectly seasonal.
With these pairings, prepare to create memorable moments filled with laughter and warmth!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Old Fashioned
Fridge: Store any leftover Christmas Old Fashioned mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it well sealed to maintain its vibrant flavors.
Freezer: While it s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cocktail base (without ginger beer) in an ice cube tray for easy use later ideal for quick holiday drinks!
Serving: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cubes in the fridge overnight and serve with fresh ginger beer over ice.
Christmas Old Fashioned Variations
Feel free to put your unique spin on this festive drink and create a cocktail that s truly yours!
Spiced Rum: Replace bourbon with spiced rum for an extra layer of warmth and holiday flair. The combination of rum and spices dances delightfully on the palate.
Maple-Free: Swap the maple syrup for agave nectar or honey for a lighter sweetness. This twist still allows you to enjoy a delicious drink without the extra calories.
Fruity Twist: Add 1 oz of cranberry juice for a fruity kick that brings a tart balance to the sweetness. This addition not only brightens the drink but also adds to the holiday aesthetic!
Herbal Infusion: Muddle in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic experience. These herbs bring a refreshing earthiness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Chai Spice: Experiment by adding a pinch of chai spice to the mix. The mix of cardamom, cinnamon, and other spices will transport you right to cozy winter nights by the fire!
Non-Alcoholic: For a festive mocktail, replace bourbon with sparkling apple cider and add more ginger beer. This option is perfect for those who prefer to skip the alcohol while still enjoying festive flavors.
Citrus Burst: Use fresh grapefruit juice instead of orange juice for a zesty twist. It adds a refreshing tang that brightens up the drink’s profile.
Extra Bitters: Increase the bitters to 5-6 dashes for a more complex flavor. This adjustments tone down the sweetness for those who appreciate a more robust cocktail experience.
Christmas Old Fashioned Recipe FAQs
What kind of bourbon is best for a Christmas Old Fashioned?
Absolutely! I recommend using a high-quality bourbon, as it serves as the foundation of this cocktail. Look for bourbons with rich flavors and smooth finishes. Brands like Buffalo Trace or Woodford Reserve are fantastic choices. You want something that complements the sweetness of the maple and the spices, enhancing the overall cocktail experience.
How do I know if my spices are fresh enough?
Very good question! Fresh spices are crucial for a vibrant cocktail. When selecting cardamom pods, look for those that are plump and slightly aromatic. If you re using ground spices, they should smell strong and not have a stale or flat aroma. If your spices have lost their scent, it might be time to replace them for your festive drink!
How should I store leftover Christmas Old Fashioned?
To keep your mixture fresh, store any leftover Christmas Old Fashioned in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal it tightly to preserve all those beautiful flavors you ve crafted. I often do this if I have extra, and it s just as delightful the next day!
Can I freeze the Christmas Old Fashioned mixture?
Certainly! To freeze, pour your Christmas Old Fashioned base (without the ginger beer) into an ice cube tray and freeze. This way, you can have handy portions to whip up quick holiday cocktails later. Simply thaw the cubes in the fridge overnight when you re ready to enjoy, then serve over ice with fresh ginger beer. It s a great time-saver for festive gatherings!
Is this drink suitable for everyone?
When it comes to dietary considerations, this cocktail contains alcohol, so it’s not suitable for everyone. If you’re serving it to a mixed crowd, I often suggest having a non-alcoholic option on hand. You can create a festive mocktail using sparkling water, maple syrup, and spices to give the essence of the Christmas Old Fashioned without the bourbon. It s the perfect way for everyone to join in on the celebration!