Smoked Maple Bacon Old Fashioned

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The Smoked Maple Bacon Old Fashioned is the ultimate fusion of savory, smoky, sweet, and boozy flavors, bringing together bacon-infused bourbon, rich maple syrup, and a hint of smoky aroma. This bold take on the classic Old Fashioned offers a perfect balance of deep caramel notes, a touch of saltiness, and a lingering smoky essence.

Perfect for whiskey lovers, cocktail connoisseurs, and those who enjoy a bit of savory indulgence, this cocktail is ideal for fall evenings, holiday gatherings, or any time you want a unique, show-stopping drink. The infusion of crispy bacon into bourbon enhances the drink’s depth, while the use of smoked glass or wood smoke infusion gives it a barrel-aged complexity that makes it truly unforgettable.

Ingredients

For the Smoked Maple Bacon Old Fashioned:

  • 2 oz bacon-infused bourbon (see instructions below)
  • ¼ oz pure maple syrup – Adds a deep, natural sweetness
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters – Provides warmth and spice
  • 1 dash orange bitters – Enhances the citrusy depth
  • Ice cube or large ice sphere – Helps control dilution
  • Smoke infusion (wood chips, smoked glass, or bacon smoke) – Adds an extra smoky layer

For Garnish:

  • Crispy bacon strip – A flavorful, edible garnish
  • Orange peel (flamed, optional) – Adds brightness and aroma
  • Luxardo cherry (optional) – Balances the richness with a touch of tartness

How to Make Bacon-Infused Bourbon

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

  • Cook 3-4 strips of high-quality smoked bacon in a pan until crispy.
  • Reserve about 1 oz (2 tbsp) of the rendered bacon fat.

Step 2: Infuse the Bourbon

  • In a glass jar, add 8 oz (1 cup) of bourbon.
  • Pour in the bacon fat, seal the jar, and shake vigorously.
  • Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 4-6 hours.

Step 3: Freeze and Strain

  • Place the jar in the freezer for 2-3 hours to solidify the fat.
  • Once the fat has hardened, use a fine-mesh strainer and coffee filter to strain the bourbon.
  • Store the bacon-infused bourbon in a sealed bottle in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Preparation

Step 1: Smoke the Glass (Optional but Recommended)

  • Burn wood chips (hickory, applewood, or cherrywood) with a torch on a fireproof surface.
  • Place an Old Fashioned glass upside down over the smoke, trapping it for 30 seconds.

Step 2: Mix the Cocktail

  • In a mixing glass, combine bacon-infused bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters.
  • Fill with ice and stir for 30 seconds until well chilled.

Step 3: Strain into the Smoked Glass

  • Place a large ice cube or sphere into the prepared glass.
  • Strain the cocktail over the ice.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

  • Express an orange peel over the drink to release essential oils.
  • Garnish with a crispy bacon strip and, optionally, a Luxardo cherry.

Variations

1. Smoked Apple Bacon Old Fashioned

  • Add ½ oz apple cider for a fruity twist.

2. Bourbon Barrel-Aged Maple Old Fashioned

  • Let the prepared cocktail sit in a mini oak barrel for 2-4 weeks for enhanced depth.

3. Spiced Maple Bacon Old Fashioned

  • Use cinnamon or smoked paprika for extra warmth and complexity.

4. Coffee-Infused Maple Bacon Old Fashioned

  • Add ¼ oz coffee liqueur for a deep, roasted flavor.

Cooking Notes

  • For a Milder Bacon Flavor, Reduce the Fat Infusion Time to 2-3 hours.
  • For a Stronger Smoke, Let the Glass Sit Over the Wood Chips Longer before pouring.
  • Use High-Quality Bourbon with notes of caramel and vanilla for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

  • Best Glassware: Serve in a heavy-bottomed Old Fashioned glass.
  • Food Pairing: Pairs well with barbecue, smoked meats, or chocolate desserts.
  • Occasions: Perfect for holiday dinners, whiskey tastings, or special celebrations.

Tips

  • Experiment with Different Smokes – Applewood offers a sweeter aroma, while hickory provides a bold, deep smoke.
  • Use High-Quality Maple Syrup – Avoid artificial syrups for a pure, natural sweetness.
  • Pre-Make Bacon-Infused Bourbon – Store it in the fridge so it’s ready for easy cocktail-making.

Prep Time:

10 minutes (plus 6 hours for infusion)

Cooking Time:

0 minutes

Total Time:

10 minutes (active prep), 6 hours (infusion time)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~210 kcal
  • Protein: ~1g
  • Sodium: ~35mg
  • Carbohydrates: ~8g
  • Sugar: ~6g

FAQs

1. Can I make a non-alcoholic version?

Yes! Use non-alcoholic bourbon alternatives and add a bit of liquid smoke for a similar depth.

2. How long does bacon-infused bourbon last?

Up to two weeks in the fridge if properly strained and sealed.

3. What’s the best wood for smoking this cocktail?

Hickory or cherrywood provides a bold, smoky aroma, while applewood adds a subtle sweetness.

4. Can I use store-bought smoked bourbon instead?

Yes! Brands like Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon work well, though homemade infusion offers better control over flavor.

5. Can I batch-make this cocktail?

Yes! Mix all ingredients in a large pitcher and pour over smoked glasses when ready to serve.

Conclusion

The Smoked Maple Bacon Old Fashioned is a rich, smoky, and perfectly balanced cocktail that delivers deep bourbon warmth, the sweetness of maple, and the savory decadence of bacon. Whether you’re crafting it for a special occasion, a whiskey tasting, or just to enjoy a refined yet indulgent drink, this cocktail is a must-try for any serious bourbon enthusiast. The combination of smoke, sweetness, and spice makes it an unforgettable experience—a cocktail that’s bold, complex, and irresistibly delicious. Cheers! 🥃🔥🥓

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