Bold Espresso Cardamom Old Fashioned

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-13 · Updated 2026-06-13

A robust old fashioned cocktail infused with rich espresso and aromatic cardamom spice. This recipe, ready in about 6 minutes, brings together bourbon, freshly brewed espresso, Angostura bitters for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 185 calories and feeds 1, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
• 1/2 oz cardamom simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water with crushed cardamom)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 large ice sphere
• 1 strip orange peel

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Instructions

1. Step 1: In a mixing glass, combine 2 oz bourbon, 1 oz freshly brewed espresso, 1/2 oz cardamom simple syrup, and 2 dashes Angostura bitters.
2. Step 2: Add ice cubes to fill the mixing glass halfway and stir gently with a bar spoon for 30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.
3. Step 3: Place one large clear ice sphere into a rocks glass.
4. Step 4: Strain the stirred mixture over the ice sphere.
5. Step 5: Express a wide strip of orange peel over the drink to release oils, then rim the glass with the peel before resting it on the edge as garnish.