Vanilla-Chili Spiced Rum Old Fashioned
A warming old fashioned with rich vanilla rum and a subtle kick of chili, balanced with a hint of orange and bitters. This recipe, ready in about 7 minutes, brings together vanilla spiced rum, demerara syrup, 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 210 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 vanilla spiced rum
- 1/2 oz demerara syrup
- 3 dashes angostura bitters
- 1 wide strip orange peel
- 1 small dried chili pepper
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Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing glass, combine 2 oz vanilla spiced rum, 1/2 oz demerara syrup (1:1 sugar to water), and 3 dashes Angostura bitters.
- Step 2: Fill the mixing glass with large ice cubes and stir gently for 30 seconds to chill and dilute.
- Step 3: Strain into a rocks glass over a single large clear ice cube.
- Step 4: Express a wide strip of orange peel over the surface, twisting vigorously to release the oils, then rim the glass edge with the peel before resting it inside.
- Step 5: Garnish by carefully placing a small dried chili pepper on the side of the glass for aroma and a mild spicy note.









