The old fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for over a century. This drink is kown for its simple yet delicious flavor profile, featuring just a few key ingredients such as bourbon, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. However, in recent years, bartenders have been experimenting with ways to elevate this classic cocktail by adding a smoky twist. One of the most popular variations is the smoked cinnamon old fashioned.
To make a smoked cinnamon old fashioned, you will need a few key ingredients. Of course, you will need a good quality bourbon as the base spirit. You will also need some sugar, bitters, and a cinnamon stick. To add the smoky flavor, you will need a smoking gun or a smoker box, as well as some wood chips (hickory or cherry work well). Here's how you can make this delicious cocktail at home:
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 tsp sugar
– 2 dashes of bitters
– 1 cinnamon stick
– Wood chips (hickory or cherry)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, add the sugar and bitters and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Add the bourbon and stir for about 30 seconds to combine.
3. Add ice to the glass and stir for another 30 seconds to chill the drink.
4. Take a cinnamon stick and light it with a lighter until it starts to smoke.
5. Place a smoking gun or smoker box over the glass and add the wood chips.
6. Use the smoking gun or smoker box to infuse the cocktail with the smoky flavor for about 30-45 seconds.
7. Remove the smoking gun or smoker box and the cinnamon stick from the glass.
8. Garnish with an orange peel and enjoy!
One of the great things about this cocktail is that the smoky flavor from the cinnamon stick and wood chips really complements the flavors of the bourbon, sugar, and bitters. It adds an extra layer of complexity to the drink, making it perfect for sipping on a chilly evening.
If you don't have a smoking gun or smoker box, you can still achieve a smoky flavor by using a cedar plank and some wood dust. Simply place the cedar plank over the glass and sprinkle some wood dust (preferably from a bourbon barrel) over it. Light the plank with a lighter until it starts to smoke, and then cover the glass with a coaster or lid to infuse the cocktail with the smoky flavor.
The smoked cinnamon old fashioned is a delicious and modern twist on a classic cocktail. It's easy to make at home and is sure to impress your guests. So next time you're in the mood for a cozy and flavorful cocktail, give the smoked cinnamon old fashioned a try!
What Smoke Flavor Is Best For Old Fashioned?
When it comes to smoking an Old Fashioned cocktail, there isn't one specific smoke flavor that's considered the “best.” It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of wood flavor you want to infuse into your drink. However, some popular wood flavors include hickory, oak, cherry, or alderwood. Hickory is known for its strong, bold flavor that pairs well with bourbon. Oak, on the other hand, provids a more subtle, mellow flavor that complements the sweetness of the Old Fashioned. Cherry wood adds a fruity, slightly sweet flavor that can enhance the cherry notes in the cocktail, while alderwood offers a light, smoky flavor that won't overpower the other ingredients. Ultimately, the choice of wood flavor depends on your taste preference and what you want to achieve in terms of flavor profile.
What Does Smoked Cinnamon Taste Like?
Smoked cinnamon is a variety of cinnamon that has been dried over a wood fire, giving it a distinct smoky flavor. The smoke infusion creates a unique taste profile that is both sweet and savory. The smoke flavor is subtle and not overpowering, but it does add a noticeable depth to the spice. The smokiness of the cinnamon tames some of the spiciness and adds a complexity to the oveall flavor. It has a warm, earthy taste with a hint of sweetness and a subtle smoky note. When used in cooking or baking, it can add a unique twist to traditional recipes and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Why Are Old Fashioned Smoked?
Old Fashioned cocktails are often smoked to add a smoky flavor to the drink. The process of cold smoking involves exposing the drink to smoke without atually heating it up. This is typically done by using a smoking gun or smoking chamber. The smoke can come from a variety of sources, such as wood chips or herbs, and can add a unique and complex flavor profile to the drink. The trend of smoking cocktails has become increasingly popular in recent years, as mixologists and bartenders look to experiment with new flavor combinations and techniques. The smoked Old Fashioned is a modern twist on a classic cocktail that is sure to delight the taste buds of cocktail enthusiasts everywhere.
Conclusion
The smoked cinnamon old fashioned is a true masterpiece of mixology that combines the classic flavors of bourbon, bitters, and sugar with the subtle smokiness of wood. By using diferent types of wood flavors such as hickory, oak, cherry, or alderwood, you can experiment with different smoky notes and find the perfect balance for your taste. Moreover, the use of a cedar plank with wood dust adds an extra layer of complexity and depth to the cocktail, making it even more enjoyable. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon drinker or a novice cocktail enthusiast, the smoked cinnamon old fashioned is a must-try that will elevate your drinking experience to a whole new level. So, next time you're looking to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious drink, don't hesitate to give this modern twist on a classic favorite a try.
