How to Make a Smoked Old Fashioned: The Ultimate Classic Cocktail Recipe
The Old Fashioned is one of the most iconic whiskey cocktails of all time. But add a touch of smoke, and you turn a classic into an unforgettable, bar-quality experience. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the perfect smoked Old Fashioned at home, using your LEA&MORE whiskey smoker kit—even if you’re a complete beginner.
What Is a Smoked Old Fashioned?
A smoked Old Fashioned is a classic Old Fashioned infused with cold smoke, adding depth, aroma, and a rich, woody flavor that complements the whiskey perfectly. It’s a favorite at high-end bars, and now you can make it at home with just a few simple tools.
What You’ll Need
- Your LEA&MORE whiskey smoker kit
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 tsp simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 large ice cube or sphere
- Orange peel (for garnish)
- Premium wood chips (oak, cherry, or applewood, included in your kit)
Step-by-Step: How to Make a Smoked Old Fashioned
Step 1: Prep Your Glass & Smoker
Start by chilling your cocktail glass with ice, then empty it. Place your LEA&MORE cask-shaped smoker directly on top of the glass, creating a tight seal to trap smoke. Add a small handful of oak wood chips to the smoker’s chamber.
Step 2: Light the Chips & Infuse Smoke
Use a lighter or the included torch (for our Reserve/Barrel Kits) to gently light the wood chips until they smolder. Let the smoke fill the glass for 10-15 seconds, then remove the smoker.
Step 3: Build Your Cocktail
Add a large ice cube to the smoked glass. Pour in 2 oz of bourbon, 1 tsp of simple syrup, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters. Stir gently for 30 seconds to chill and dilute the cocktail.
Step 4: Garnish & Enjoy
Express the orange peel over the cocktail to release its oils, then rub it along the rim of the glass and drop it in. Sip and enjoy the rich, smoky, perfectly balanced flavor of your homemade smoked Old Fashioned.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Smoked Old Fashioned
- Choose the Right Wood: Oak chips are classic for Old Fashioneds, adding a bold, woody smoke that pairs perfectly with bourbon. Cherry or applewood add a sweet, fruity twist.
- Don’t Over-Smoke: 10-15 seconds is enough—too much smoke will overpower the whiskey’s natural flavor.
- Use High-Quality Bourbon: A smooth, full-bodied bourbon will make your smoked Old Fashioned taste even better.
- Experiment with Variations: Try smoking with different wood chips, or adding a dash of orange bitters for a unique twist.
Elevate Your Home Bar with LEA&MORE
Ready to master the smoked Old Fashioned? Shop our full collection of whiskey smoker kits, and turn your home bar into a premium cocktail destination.