The Smoked Old Fashioned Recipe is a flavorful take on a timeless cocktail that combines the smoothness of whiskey with the sweetness of sugar and the aromatic notes of bitters while introducing the depth of wood fire taste. Perfect for enjoying by the campfire, this drink is easy to pre-make and serve at the campsite.
Whether you’re watching a breathtaking sunset, stargazing, or simply unwinding after a day of adventure, a delicious cocktail like a Smoked Old Fashioned enhances these moments, adding a touch of luxury and indulgence to your outdoor experience.
Smoked Old Fashioned Recipe
Ingredients List [Per 1 Cocktail]
- 2 ounces whiskey
- 1/4 ounce simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1-2 drops liquid smoke
- Orange peel and cherry for garnish (optional)
Total Wine should have you covered for all your ingredient needs!
Preparation Instructions at Home
- Scale for the total number of cocktails you would like. Combine the whiskey, simple syrup, Angostura bitters, and liquid smoke in a large pitcher. Stir the mixture thoroughly.
[Keep in mind, liquid smoke is potent, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste. The goal is to give your cocktail a subtle smoky flavor without overpowering the classic elements of the Old Fashioned.]
- Pour the mixture into a sealed mason jar or a large plastic bottle.
- Store the jar in your cooler to keep the cocktail fresh.
If you don’t have containers and serving ware around your house you’d like to use, REI is a great place to find them.
Serving Instructions at the Campsite
- When ready to serve, fill a plastic cup with ice.
- Pour the pre-made Old Fashioned mixture over the ice, filling the cup to the top.
- Garnish with an orange peel and a cherry for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.
FAQ-Smoked Old Fashioned
This recipe uses liquid smoke — just 1–2 drops per cocktail gives you that campfire-smoky flavor without any special equipment. It’s potent, so start small and adjust to taste.
Hickory liquid smoke is the most common and works well in an Old Fashioned. Look for a brand with simple ingredients (water and natural smoke flavor) like Wright’s or Colgin. Avoid liquid smoke with added colors or artificial flavors.
Bitters are a key component of an Old Fashioned. They add the aromatic complexity that defines the drink. If you don’t have Angostura bitters, orange bitters are a decent substitute. Without any bitters, the drink becomes closer to whiskey with sugar.
Yes — it’s essentially 2 oz of straight whiskey with minimal dilution from the syrup and bitters. At about 166 calories and roughly 30% ABV, it’s a sipping cocktail meant to be enjoyed slowly.
Smoked Old Fashioned Recipe Conclusion
The Old Fashioned is a timeless and sophisticated cocktail that’s perfect for any campfire setting. By pre-mixing this drink and adding a little smokiness, you can enjoy its delightful flavors without any hassle.
Sipping a cocktail in nature is one of my favorite pleasures, so I wanted to share it with you. There’s something incredibly soothing about enjoying a well-crafted drink while surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors.
Cheers to making our outdoor adventures even more memorable and enjoyable together!
Your Turn
Share your Old Fashioned moments with us on social media and tag us to showcase your classic campfire cocktail creations!
@thedisperseddietitian #thedisperseddietitian
Complete Your Camp Happy Hour
Pair this Smoked Old Fashioned with my Campfire Cookie Skillet for the ultimate fireside treat. Fresh from the skillet with crisp edges and a gooey center, it’s a classic dessert that pairs perfectly with the rich bourbon and smoky notes in this cocktail.
More Camp Cocktail Inspiration
Looking for more drinks you can make before your trip? Browse all 11 Best Campfire Cocktails You Can Pre-Make for simple recipes you can batch at home and enjoy around the campfire.
Check out our whole blog for cooking ideas, wine pairing, and camping spots to complete your elevated outdoor trip!
Smoked Old Fashioned Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ounces whiskey
- 1/4 ounce simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1-2 drops liquid smoke
- Orange peel and cherry for garnish optional
Instructions
Preparation Instructions at Home
- Scale for the total number of cocktails you would like. Combine the whiskey, simple syrup, Angostura bitters, and liquid smoke in a large pitcher. Stir the mixture thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a sealed mason jar or a large plastic bottle.
- Store the jar in your cooler to keep the cocktail fresh.
Serving Instructions at the Campsite
- When ready to serve, fill a plastic cup with ice.
- Pour the pre-made Old Fashioned mixture over the ice, filling the cup to the top.
- Garnish with an orange peel and a cherry for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.