As the seasons change and the crispness of autumn fills the air, it’s time to cozy up with a classic cocktail that exudes warmth and sophistication. The Brown Butter Bourbon Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the traditional Old Fashioned, infusing the deep and nutty flavors of brown butter to create a libation that’s both comforting and decadent. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the alluring world of the Brown Butter Bourbon Old Fashioned, exploring its rich flavors, the art of making brown butter, and how to craft this indulgent elixir to perfection.
The Allure of the Brown Butter Bourbon Old Fashioned:
The Brown Butter Bourbon Old Fashioned is a celebration of classic cocktail craftsmanship with a modern twist. By incorporating brown butter, a culinary gem known for its rich and nutty taste, this cocktail takes the Old Fashioned to new heights of indulgence. The smoothness of bourbon, the sweetness of sugar, the complexity of bitters, and the depth of brown butter create a harmonious blend that warms the soul and delights the taste buds.
The Art of Making Brown Butter:
Before we delve into the recipe for the Brown Butter Bourbon Old Fashioned, let’s explore the art of making brown butter. Brown butter, also known as beurre noisette in French, is achieved by gently cooking butter until its milk solids turn a rich golden-brown color, releasing a nutty aroma and enhancing the flavor profile. Here’s how to make brown butter:
- Cut the desired amount of unsalted butter into small pieces.
- Place the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Let the butter melt completely, then continue to cook it, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a golden-brown color. Be vigilant, as it can quickly transition from brown to burnt.
- Once the desired color is achieved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the brown butter cool slightly before using it in your cocktail.
The Brown Butter Bourbon Old Fashioned Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon (your favorite brand)
- ½ oz brown butter syrup (recipe below)
- 2-3 dashes aromatic bitters
- Ice cubes
- Orange peel and Luxardo cherry for garnish
Brown Butter Syrup Recipe:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup water
- 2 tbsp brown butter
Instructions:
For the Brown Butter Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine brown sugar and water over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves, then add the brown butter.
- Continue stirring until the mixture is well combined and has a smooth texture.
- Remove from heat and let the syrup cool before using it in your cocktail.
For the Brown Butter Bourbon Old Fashioned:
- In an old-fashioned glass, muddle the orange peel with the brown butter syrup.
- Add ice cubes to the glass.
- Pour the bourbon over the ice.
- Add 2-3 dashes of aromatic bitters.
- Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
- Garnish with an orange peel twist and a Luxardo cherry for an extra touch of elegance.
Sip and Savor:
With your Brown Butter Bourbon Old Fashioned in hand, take a moment to savor the complexity and depth of flavors that unfold with each sip. The nutty essence of brown butter blends harmoniously with the bourbon’s oaky notes, while the sweetness of brown sugar and the aromatic bitters add layers of complexity. The orange peel and Luxardo cherry garnish impart a delightful visual and aromatic touch, inviting you to fully immerse yourself in the indulgence of this exquisite cocktail.
Conclusion:
The Brown Butter Bourbon Old Fashioned is a testament to the art of mixology, where classic craftsmanship meets innovative flavor profiles. Its nutty richness, balanced sweetness, and smooth bourbon create an intoxicating experience that’s perfect for autumn gatherings or quiet evenings by the fireplace. So, channel your inner mixologist, savor the art of making brown butter, and treat yourself to the luscious decadence of the Brown Butter Bourbon Old Fashioned. Cheers to the allure of indulgence, toasting to the richness of flavors, and raising a glass to the art of cocktail craftsmanship!