If you love a classic Old Fashioned, this Golden Raisin Old Fashioned is a delicious variation that’s surprisingly simple to make. Sweet golden raisins soak overnight in bourbon, creating a smooth spirit with subtle notes of dried fruit, caramel and vanilla. The infused bourbon is then stirred with simple syrup and Angostura bitters for an elegant cocktail that’s rich, balanced and incredibly sippable.
Although it feels sophisticated enough for special occasions, this cocktail requires very little hands-on time. Simply let the raisins infuse the bourbon overnight, then stir everything together when you’re ready to serve. As a result, you’ll have an impressive drink that looks just as beautiful as it tastes.
Whether you’re entertaining during the holidays, enjoying a quiet evening at home or looking for a unique bourbon cocktail recipe, this Golden Raisin Old Fashioned is one you’ll want to make again and again.
Choose a quality bourbon with caramel, vanilla and oak notes, as these pair beautifully with the sweetness of the raisins.
Golden raisins are slightly lighter and fruitier than regular raisins, giving the bourbon a delicate sweetness without overpowering it.
Just a couple of dashes add warmth, spice and complexity while balancing the sweetness.
A small amount is all you need to round out the flavors.
Add the golden raisins to the bourbon and let them soak overnight.
Place the soaked golden raisins and simple syrup into a mixing glass. Lightly muddle to release their flavor.
Pour in the raisin-infused bourbon, add the Angostura bitters, then fill the mixing glass with ice.
Stir vigorously until the cocktail is thoroughly chilled.
Strain over a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
Garnish with a cocktail pick threaded with a few golden raisins, then serve immediately.
Swap the bourbon for aged rum for a softer, slightly richer version with notes of caramel and spice.
Express a strip of orange peel over the drink before garnishing for a classic citrus aroma.
Add a tiny pinch of cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg for a festive seasonal twist.
Yes. The bourbon can be infused a day in advance and kept in an airtight container until you’re ready to make the cocktail.
Overnight provides plenty of flavor, although a full 24 hours creates an even richer infusion.
Yes, but golden raisins produce a lighter, brighter flavor that works especially well in this cocktail.
Any quality bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes is an excellent choice.
The infused bourbon can be stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for several days. Once mixed, the cocktail is best enjoyed immediately.
Welcome to Claire Bear Bites! Here is where we have the most amount of fun with food. I’m an silly, quirky Aussie living in LA, creating and loving bright, colorful, healthy and delicious plant forward meals.
This deliciously colorful meals are a direct reflection of me and my love for experimenting. Food should make you happy, smile and make you do a weird lil happy dance cause it taste so dang good. Life can be stressful but your food doesn’t need to be! Let’s have fun and eat the rainbow!
Welcome to Claire Bear Bites! Here is where we have the most amount of fun with food. I’m an silly, quirky Aussie living in LA, creating and loving bright, colorful, healthy and delicious plant forward meals.
This deliciously colorful meals are a direct reflection of me and my love for experimenting. Food should make you happy, smile and make you do a weird lil happy dance cause it taste so dang good. Life can be stressful but your food doesn’t need to be! Let’s have fun and eat the rainbow!
