The Nutcracker Old Fashioned | VinePair

The Story Behind The Nutcracker Old Fashioned

When it comes to spreading holiday cheer, nothing does the trick quite like a classic whiskey cocktail. Created by Ivy Mix for Sleyenda, the holiday pop-up operated by Brooklyn bar and restaurant Leyenda, the Nutcracker Old Fashioned sees three types of nuts stirred into the mix, which provide the cocktail with a nuanced layer of savory sweetness.

This holiday drink swaps out the usual bourbon for a split base of hazelnut bourbon and Pecan Appleton Signature rum, which immediately provide a rich mix of baked apple pie, pecan, hazelnut, and vanilla flavors. A touch of sweetness comes with the addition of Macadamia Nut Syrup, made with orange blossom water, which brings a refreshing brightness to the party. With both Angostura and aromatic bitters stirred in to complete the build, the resulting cocktail is spiced, sweet, and ideal for any holiday festivity.

This recipe is part of our 2023 Holiday Cocktail Countdown. Click here to see all of the festive recipes as they publish throughout December.