If you’re looking for a festive Christmas whiskey cocktail, this pecan pie old fashioned cocktail recipe may be just what you need. It’s a comforting twist on the classic old fashioned, drawing on the rich flavors of pecans and warm spices to create a holiday-ready drink. Whether you’re serving guests at a holiday party or simply craving something sweet and bold on a cozy night in, this cocktail will bring a special touch to your celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2.5 oz brown butter washed bourbon
- 1 oz pecan/cinnamon liqueur
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash black walnut bitters
- Optional: Aged Jamaican rum (to split the base if desired)
- For pecan infusion: Pecans soaked in Everclear (aim for at least one week, though two more weeks enhances flavor)
- Garnish: Half rim of maple syrup with crushed toasted pecans (optional), orange zest (optional)
Directions
Prepare your pecan infusion
- Soak pecans in Everclear for about a week. If you can wait longer—up to three weeks—this deeper infusion gives a stronger, richer pecan flavor.
Assemble the cocktail
- In a mixing glass, combine the brown butter washed bourbon, pecan/cinnamon liqueur, and both bitters. If you prefer, you can replace part of the bourbon with aged Jamaican rum for a slightly different twist.
Stir and strain
- Add ice to your mixing glass and stir gently for 20–30 seconds. This chills and dilutes the drink just enough without watering down the flavors. Strain into a lowball glass with a large ice cube or fresh ice.
Garnish to finish
- For extra holiday flair, half-rim your glass with a thin coat of maple syrup and crushed toasted pecans. This small detail boosts aroma but won’t interfere with sipping. If you’re curious about adding fruit notes, garnish with a light twist of orange zest.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust sweetness: If you’d like a less sweet version, consider reducing the amount of pecan/cinnamon liqueur. You can also opt to use a sugar-free syrup if you’re watching sugar intake.
- Explore the “Pakani” name: This cocktail’s creator drew inspiration from the Algonquin word for nut—“Pakani”—to celebrate the nutty character of pecan pie. Feel free to rename it in your recipe book.
- Experiment with other bitters: If you can’t find black walnut bitters, try a classic aromatic bitters blend or chocolate bitters for a richer finish.
- Decide on orange zest: While some old fashioned fans love the brightness of orange, others might find it distracting against the sweet, nutty pecan notes. Try a small piece first to see if you like the extra pop of citrus.
Nutrition Facts
Below is a rough estimate per serving. Actual values may vary based on the specific brands and measurements you use:
- Calories: ~250
- Carbohydrates: ~16g
- Sugars: ~14g
- Fat: ~0.5g
- Protein: 0g
As always, enjoy responsibly and adjust ingredient amounts to fit your own dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
This pecan pie old fashioned cocktail recipe offers a delightful balance between deep, nutty notes and classic whiskey warmth. It’s perfect for a cozy celebration and brings a personal flair to any holiday gathering. Whether you keep it traditional or test out different bitters, you’ll end up with a drink that captures the comforting spirit of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I skip the brown butter washing of bourbon?
Absolutely. While brown butter washing adds a rich, buttery note, you can use a standard bourbon for simpler prep. The pecan/cinnamon liqueur still delivers great flavor. - How long should I soak the pecans in Everclear?
You can soak them for as little as one week or up to three weeks. Longer soaking deepens the pecan essence, so if you have the time, go for it. - Is orange zest necessary in this cocktail?
Orange zest is optional. Some people enjoy the fresh citrus aroma, but if you find it clashes with the nutty sweetness, feel free to leave it out. - What if I want a less sweet cocktail?
You can reduce the amount of pecan/cinnamon liqueur or use a little more bourbon or rum to balance the sweetness. You can also try a sugar-free flavored syrup if you prefer.
