Chocolate Old Fashioned

If you love old fashioneds and are looking for a fun dessert version of the classic cocktail, look no further than this chocolate old fashioned! It has all the bold, spirit-forward flavor you expect from a traditional Old Fashioned, with a rich chocolate twist that makes it feel just a little indulgent.

You’ll love this Chocolate Old Fashioned

It’s easy to make. If you can stir, you can make this cocktail. No fancy equipment, no complicated techniques, just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes.

It’s not overly sweet. This isn’t a sugary chocolate drink. It’s still spirit-forward and balanced, just like a classic Old Fashioned. The chocolate flavor enhances the whiskey instead of overpowering it.

It feels elevated without the effort. A Chocolate Old Fashioned looks impressive in a rocks glass with a big ice cube and chocolate garnish, but it’s secretly so simple to pull together.

Ingredients

Whiskey. Bourbon works beautifully here thanks to its natural vanilla and caramel notes, but rye will give you a slightly spicier edge. Use a quality whiskey you enjoy sipping.

Demara Syrup. Adds rich, molasses-like sweetness that complements both the whiskey and chocolate.

Chocolate Bitters. The key ingredient that transforms this into a chocolate old fashioned.

How to make a Chocolate Old Fashioned

1. Combine 2 oz whiskey, ¼–½ oz demerara syrup (to taste), and 2–3 dashes chocolate bitters.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 20–30 seconds until well chilled.
3. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
4. Add your favorite chocolate garnish (see ideas below).

Substitutions and variations

Simple Syrup. If you don’t have demerara syrup, regular simple syrup works just fine. The flavor will be slightly lighter, but still delicious.

Chocolate Syrup. Want a more dessert-forward version? Add ½ teaspoon of chocolate syrup for a richer chocolate flavor. Keep in mind this will make the drink slightly sweeter.

Make It Orange-Chocolate. Add a dash of orange bitters or express an orange peel over the top for a chocolate-orange vibe.

Spiced Chocolate Old Fashioned. Add a tiny pinch of cinnamon or a dash of aromatic bitters for a warm, winter-ready cocktail.

Garnish ideas

• Cacao Nibs
• Dusting of cocoa powder
• Chocolate shavings
• Luxardo Cherry

How to make a big batch of this Chocolate Old Fashioned

Hosting? You can easily batch this cocktail ahead of time.

For 8 servings:

• 16 oz whiskey
• 2–3 oz demerara syrup (adjust to taste)
  16–24 dashes chocolate bitters
  

Stir everything together in a pitcher and refrigerate. When ready to serve, pour 2–3 oz over a large ice cube in each glass. Stir briefly in the glass if needed and garnish.

TIP:  If batching ahead of time, add 2–3 oz of water to mimic the dilution from stirring.

FAQs

What are chocolate bitters?

Chocolate bitters are concentrated bitters infused with cocoa and spice flavors. They don’t taste like sweet chocolate syrup, but instead, they add depth, richness, and subtle cocoa notes to cocktails.

What's the secret to a perfect Old Fashioned?

It’s all about balance and quality ingredients! Use a quality whiskey, don’t overdo it with the sweetener, and stir it properly for the right dilution. 

Pin it for later!

Want more whiskey cocktails?

• Strawberry Whiskey Lemonade
• Pineapple Bourbon Lemonade
• French 95