The Fig Old Fashioned is a sophisticated update to the beloved classic cocktail, infusing the timeless blend of whiskey, sugar, and bitters with the rich, jammy sweetness of figs. This drink balances the deep, fruity notes of fig with the complex warmth of bourbon, creating a cocktail that’s both familiar and intriguing. Whether you’re celebrating fig season or want to impress guests with a creative riff, this Fig Old Fashioned is a delicious way to elevate your cocktail repertoire.
Ingredients
- 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) fig syrup (see below for homemade instructions)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash orange bitters (optional, but recommended)
- 1 fresh fig, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 orange peel (for garnish)
- Ice (large cube or sphere preferred)
For Homemade Fig Syrup:
- 1 cup (150 g) dried figs, chopped
- 1 cup (240 ml) water
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
Instructions
- Make the Fig Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine chopped dried figs, water, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Lower heat and simmer for 10 minutes, until the figs are soft and the liquid is slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool. Strain through a fine mesh sieve, pressing on the figs to extract as much syrup as possible. Store in a clean jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Prepare the Cocktail: In a mixing glass, add the fig syrup, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters (if using).
- Pour in the bourbon or rye whiskey.
- Add ice to the mixing glass and stir for about 30 seconds, until well chilled and slightly diluted.
- Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass over a large ice cube or sphere.
- Express the orange peel over the drink by holding it over the glass and giving it a gentle twist to release the oils, then drop it in as garnish. Add a fresh fig slice to the rim or skewer for a beautiful finish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips
- Fig Syrup Substitution: If you don’t have time to make fig syrup, muddle two fresh figs with a teaspoon of sugar in the mixing glass before adding the whiskey and bitters. Strain well for a smoother drink.
- Whiskey Choices: Bourbon brings vanilla and caramel notes that pair beautifully with fig, but rye whiskey’s spiciness can add an interesting edge. Use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
- Bitters: Angostura bitters are classic, but don’t hesitate to experiment with chocolate or walnut bitters for a nutty twist.
- Ice Matters: A large cube or sphere melts more slowly, keeping your drink cold without diluting it too quickly.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your Fig Old Fashioned as a pre-dinner aperitif or as a nightcap after a hearty meal.
- Pair with a cheese and charcuterie board, especially those featuring blue cheese, aged cheddar, or prosciutto, which complement the fig’s sweetness.
- Garnish with a sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick for an aromatic touch during fall and winter months.
- Offer alongside other Old Fashioned variations for a tasting flight at your next cocktail party.
Variations
- Smoky Fig Old Fashioned: Substitute half the whiskey with a smoky Scotch for a bold, peaty twist.
- Fig and Walnut: Add a dash of walnut bitters and garnish with a toasted walnut for a nutty, autumnal take.
- Spiced Fig Old Fashioned: Infuse the fig syrup with a cinnamon stick or a few cloves as it simmers for extra warmth and spice.
- Fig & Honey Old Fashioned: Replace half the sugar in the syrup with honey for a richer, floral sweetness.
- Non-Alcoholic Fig Old Fashioned: Use a good-quality non-alcoholic whiskey alternative and follow the same method for a spirit-free sipper.
Storage and Reheating
- Fig Syrup: Store leftover fig syrup in an airtight jar or bottle in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2 weeks. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination.
- Prepared Cocktails: Old Fashioneds are best made and served fresh. However, you can pre-mix the whiskey, syrup, and bitters (without ice or garnish) and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir well and pour over fresh ice when ready to serve.
- Reheating: There is no need to reheat this cocktail, but if your syrup has thickened in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes or warm gently in a bowl of hot water before using.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh figs instead of dried for the syrup?
Yes, you can use fresh figs to make the syrup. Use about 1 1/2 cups of chopped fresh figs in place of dried. Simmer for the same amount of time, but you may want to reduce the water slightly as fresh figs contain more moisture. The syrup will be lighter and more delicate in flavor. - What type of whiskey works best in a Fig Old Fashioned?
Bourbon is the classic choice for its round, sweet character, which pairs beautifully with figs. Rye whiskey adds more spice and dryness, making the drink a bit more robust. Choose according to your taste preference or experiment with both to see which you like best. - How do I make the drink less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet Old Fashioned, reduce the amount of fig syrup to 1/4 oz or add a splash of club soda to mellow it out. You can also use a higher-proof whiskey, which will stand up to the sweetness better. - Is it possible to batch this cocktail for a party?
Absolutely. Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix in a pitcher (without ice or garnish). Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, pour over ice and garnish each glass individually. - Can I use store-bought fig preserves or jam instead of syrup?
Yes, in a pinch, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of fig jam or preserves for the syrup. Muddle it well with the bitters and whiskey, then strain to remove any solids. It may make the drink slightly cloudier, but the flavor will still be delicious. - What if I don’t have bitters?
Bitters are an important component of an Old Fashioned, adding balance and complexity. If you don’t have any on hand, try a splash of aromatic herbal liqueur (such as Amaro) or simply increase the orange peel for extra flavor, but note the drink will lack some of its signature depth.
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Fig Old Fashioned Recipe: A Modern Twist on a Classic Cocktail