The chocolate old fashioned combines the bold, spirit-forward essence of a classic Old Fashioned with the indulgent depth of chocolate, creating a cocktail that’s both sophisticated and comforting. This rich twist elevates bourbon or whiskey with notes of cocoa, often through chocolate bitters, liqueur, or flavored spirits, resulting in a drink that’s perfect for cozy evenings, holidays, or dessert pairings. As cocktail culture embraces creative riffs on timeless recipes, the chocolate old fashioned stands out for its balance sweet yet bitter, smooth yet complex. It’s no wonder home bartenders and mixologists love experimenting with it, especially during colder months when warm, decadent flavors shine. In this guide, we’ll explore its origins, how to make the best chocolate old fashioned recipe, popular variations like dark chocolate old fashioned or peanut butter chocolate old fashioned, and why this drink continues to captivate.
The Classic Old Fashioned: Foundation of the Chocolate Twist
To appreciate the chocolate old fashioned, start with its roots. The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest known cocktails, dating back to the early 1800s. Bartenders at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky, reportedly created it around 1884, though its name derives from patrons requesting drinks “the old-fashioned way” simple, with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water.
What Are the Three Ingredients in an Old Fashioned?
Traditionally, an Old Fashioned uses just three core elements: whiskey (often bourbon or rye), sugar (cube or simple syrup), and bitters (typically Angostura). A splash of water helps dissolve the sugar, and it’s garnished with an orange peel and sometimes a cherry. This minimalist approach highlights the spirit’s flavors, making it ideal for riffing.
Why Is It Called an Old Fashioned Cocktail?
The name emerged in the late 19th century as newer, more elaborate cocktails gained popularity. Patrons at bars would ask for drinks “the old-fashioned way,” referring to this straightforward preparation. It became official in the 1880s, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
What Is a Chocolate Old Fashioned?
A chocolate old fashioned infuses the traditional recipe with chocolate elements for a dessert-like profile without overwhelming sweetness. It retains the spirit-forward nature but adds cocoa’s richness through:
- Chocolate bitters (like Woodford Reserve or Angostura Cocoa) for subtle, spicy depth.
- Chocolate liqueur (e.g., crème de cacao or Ballotin Chocolate Whiskey).
- Flavored whiskeys (Crown Royal Chocolate or infused bourbons).
The result is a cocktail that tastes like a sophisticated adult hot cocoa velvety, slightly bitter, and warming.
How to Make a Chocolate Old Fashioned
Creating this drink is straightforward, much like the classic version. Here’s a reliable base recipe using chocolate bitters for authentic cocoa notes.
Best Chocolate Old Fashioned Recipe
Ingredients (serves 1):
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube (or ½ tsp simple syrup)
- 3-4 dashes chocolate bitters
- 2 dashes orange bitters (optional, for citrus lift)
- Splash of water
- Large ice cube
- Garnish: orange peel, Luxardo cherry, or dark chocolate shavings
Steps:
- In an old-fashioned glass, muddle the sugar cube with the bitters and a splash of water until dissolved.
- Add the whiskey and stir gently.
- Add a large ice cube to slow dilution.
- Express an orange peel over the drink and drop it in; garnish with a cherry.
Stir for 20-30 seconds to chill and integrate flavors. This method keeps it balanced chocolate adds depth without cloying sweetness.
For a luxurious touch, rim the glass with melted dark chocolate or add shavings on top.
Popular Variations to Try
The chocolate old fashioned inspires endless creativity. Here are standout versions:
Dark Chocolate Old Fashioned
Use high-cacao chocolate liqueur or unsweetened cocoa in syrup for a bittersweet profile. Pair with rye for spicier contrast.
Crown Royal Chocolate Old Fashioned
Crown Royal’s chocolate-flavored whiskey simplifies the drink no extra liqueur needed. Combine 2 oz Crown Royal Chocolate Whisky, 2 dashes Angostura bitters, sugar, and orange peel. It’s smooth, indulgent, and dessert-ready.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Old Fashioned
Mix peanut butter whiskey (like Skrewball) with chocolate elements for a Reese’s-inspired treat. Use 1½ oz peanut butter whiskey, ¾ oz rye, and chocolate bitters.
Orange Chocolate Old Fashioned
Emphasize citrus with extra orange peel or bitters alongside chocolate bitters. Muddle an orange slice for oils that brighten the cocoa.
Cherry Chocolate Old Fashioned
Incorporate cherry bitters or muddle a Luxardo cherry for a chocolate-covered cherry vibe.
Hot Chocolate Old Fashioned
For winter, make a warm version with hot chocolate syrup (mix hot cocoa powder, sugar, water), bourbon, and chocolate bitters. Top with torched marshmallows.
Woodford Chocolate Old Fashioned
Woodford Reserve Chocolate Bitters pair beautifully with their bourbon. Add dashes to a classic base for barrel-aged cocoa notes.
Comparison Table: Classic vs. Chocolate Old Fashioned Variations
| Variation | Key Spirit/Ingredient | Bitters Used | Sweetness Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Old Fashioned | Bourbon/Rye | Angostura | Low | Purists, sipping neat |
| Chocolate Old Fashioned | Bourbon + chocolate liqueur | Chocolate + orange | Medium | Dessert pairing |
| Crown Royal Chocolate | Crown Royal Chocolate Whisky | Angostura | Medium-High | Easy indulgence |
| Peanut Butter Chocolate | Peanut butter whiskey | Chocolate | High | Fun, nostalgic twists |
| Dark Chocolate | Rye + dark cocoa | Chocolate | Low-Medium | Bittersweet lovers |
| Hot Chocolate | Bourbon + hot cocoa syrup | Chocolate | High | Cozy winter nights |
This table shows how the chocolate element adapts the drink for different moods and seasons.
Addressing the Donut Confusion
Note that searches for how many calories in a chocolate old fashioned donut refer to the baked good, not the cocktail. A typical chocolate iced old-fashioned donut (e.g., from Winchell’s) contains around 420 calories, mostly from fried dough, sugar, and chocolate icing. The cocktail version is far lighter typically 150-250 calories per serving, depending on ingredients making it a better choice for mindful sipping.
FAQ
What is a chocolate old fashioned?
It’s a twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, incorporating chocolate through bitters, liqueur, or flavored whiskey for a rich, dessert-like flavor while keeping the spirit-forward style.
What are the three ingredients in an Old Fashioned?
The core are whiskey, sugar, and bitters, often with a splash of water and citrus garnish.
Why is it called an Old Fashioned cocktail?
It originated from patrons requesting drinks “the old-fashioned way” simple and traditional amid rising fancy cocktails in the late 1800s.
How to make a chocolate old fashioned?
Muddle sugar with chocolate bitters, add whiskey, stir over ice, and garnish with orange peel and a cherry for a balanced, indulgent sip.
What is Taylor Swift’s favorite cocktail?
Reports suggest it’s the French Blonde (gin, Lillet, St-Germain, grapefruit juice), though she enjoys various drinks.
Are there variations like peanut butter chocolate old fashioned?
Yes, use peanut butter whiskey with chocolate bitters for a nutty, candy-bar-inspired version.
What’s the role of chocolate bitters?
They add deep cocoa notes with spice and earthiness, enhancing whiskey without excess sweetness.
Conclusion
The chocolate old fashioned masterfully blends heritage with innovation, turning a simple classic into something luxurious and approachable. From the best chocolate old fashioned recipe using chocolate bitters to fun spins like Crown Royal chocolate old fashioned or peanut butter chocolate old fashioned, it offers endless ways to enjoy whiskey and chocolate together. Whether for a quiet night in or impressing guests, this cocktail delivers depth and comfort. Grab your favorite bourbon, some bitters, and experiment your perfect pour awaits. Cheers to timeless drinks with a rich twist!
