Smoked Pecan Old Fashioned: The Perfect Fall Old Fashioned Cocktail
Aug 29, 2025
Happy Thanksgiving, y'all! This smoked pecan old fashioned is the perfect digestif to enjoy with friends after a huge meal. Easy to make at home but incredibly impressive, this fall old fashioned cocktail brings together the rich flavors of bourbon with smoky and nutty notes. It's an elegant and comforting drink that's sure to be a new holiday favorite.
What is a Smoked Pecan Old Fashioned?
A smoked pecan old fashioned is a modern twist on a classic cocktail. It elevates the drink by infusing it with wood smoke, which adds a complex, aromatic layer that complements the bourbon's notes. This specific recipe uses both a nutty pecan bitter and a spiced cocoa bitter, making it a distinctly fall old fashioned cocktail with layers of flavor that perfectly suit the season.
The Ultimate Fall Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
This recipe is designed to be impressive yet straightforward. The key is in the technique and the quality of your ingredients, from the bourbon to the bitters.
Ingredients for the Smoked Pecan Old Fashioned
- Makes: One cocktail
- 2 oz Woodford Reserve
- 0.25 oz El Guapo™ Creole Orgeat
- 2 dashes El Guapo™ Chicory Pecan Bitters
- 2 dashes El Guapo™ Spiced Cocoa Bitters
- Applewood chips, blowtorch & cloche, for smoking
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cocktail: In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the bitters, El Guapo™ Creole Orgeat and Woodford Reserve. Stir until the mixture is well chilled, which typically takes about 30 seconds.
- Strain and Pour: Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass over one large ice rock.
- Smoke the Drink: Place the glass on a flat board. Using a blowtorch, light a small pile of applewood chips until embers are glowing. Immediately cover the glass and the smoldering chips with a cloche.
- Infuse and Serve: Allow the smoke to infuse the cocktail for approximately one minute. Just before serving, remove the cloche to release the smoke and aromas.
Why This Fall Old Fashioned Cocktail Works
The combination of ingredients in this fall old fashioned cocktail is what makes it so special. The Woodford Reserve provides a strong, spicy backbone. The El Guapo™ Creole Orgeat adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of almond that complements the other flavors. The El Guapo™ Chicory Pecan Bitters and Spiced Cocoa Bitters work in harmony to deliver a rich, nutty, and spiced profile. The final smoking step ties everything together with a smoky aroma, creating a truly memorable sensory experience.
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo's homepage to explore everything we offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why smoke a cocktail?
Smoking a cocktail infuses it with a layer of aroma and flavor from the burnt wood. The smoke adds a rustic, earthy complexity that complements the rich bourbon and nutty bitters, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
What's the best bourbon for an old fashioned?
For a fall old fashioned cocktail, a high-rye bourbon like Woodford Reserve is an excellent choice because its spicy notes stand up to the rich flavors of pecan and cocoa. You can also use a wheated bourbon for a smoother, sweeter finish.
How do I store my El Guapo™ Bitters?
To maintain their flavor and potency, store your El Guapo™ Bitters in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.
