Vanilla Bean Brulee Old Fashioned – A Sweet Twist on a Classic Cocktail

The first time I tasted a Vanilla Bean Brulee Old Fashioned, I was instantly hooked. Imagine the cozy comfort of a classic Old Fashioned, but with the sweet, caramel-like touch of vanilla bean crème brûlée. It’s like dessert and cocktail all in one glass!

This drink is my go-to for fall evenings or holiday get-togethers. I love how the caramelized sugar rim feels fancy without being complicated, and the vanilla bean syrup gives it that warm, rich flavor that reminds me of crème brûlée custard.

What Is Crème Brûlée?

Crème brûlée is a French dessert made with a creamy vanilla custard base topped with a layer of caramelized sugar. You crack into that crispy sugar top with a spoon, and underneath is the smoothest, silkiest custard.

What Is The Vanilla Bean Brulee Old Fashioned Cocktail Famous For?

The Vanilla Bean Brulee Old Fashioned cocktail is known for combining bourbon’s bold character with sweet vanilla bean syrup, aromatic bitters, and a brûlée-style sugar rim.

It takes the familiar Old Fashioned and gives it a dessert-like upgrade that’s perfect for cocktail lovers who enjoy something both classic and playful.

How to Make Vanilla Bean Brulee Old Fashioned Cocktail?

Recipe Overview

This Vanilla Bean Brulee Old Fashioned cocktail recipe is simple, rich, and packed with flavor. Bourbon, vanilla bean syrup, bitters, and a caramelized sugar rim come together for a drink that feels indulgent but is easy to make.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 minutes (for sugar rim)
• Total Time: 7 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Cocktail / Drink
• Difficulty: Easy
• Yield: 1 cocktail
• Serving Size: 1 glass
• Calories: ~210 per serving

Equipment Needed

• Rocks glass
• Cocktail stirrer or spoon
• Small plate for sugar rim
• Lighter or torch (for brûlée effect)

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 0.5 oz vanilla bean syrup
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters
• 1 shake Angostura bitters
• Caramelized sugar (for rim)
• 1 toasted vanilla bean stick (garnish)
• 1 piece orange peel (1 x 2.5 inches)
• 1–2 maraschino cherries

Ingredient Notes

• Bourbon: A smooth bourbon works best. Pick one you’d enjoy sipping.
• Vanilla Bean Syrup: You can make it at home by simmering sugar, water, and a real vanilla bean. Store-bought works too.
• Caramelized Sugar Rim: Use granulated sugar, lightly torched until golden. It gives that signature crème brûlée crackle.
• Orange Peel: Expressing the oils over the glass adds a citrusy lift.
• Maraschino Cherries: They give a little sweet finish at the bottom of the glass.

Instructions

1. Prepare the rim: Dip your glass rim in a little water, then into sugar. Use a kitchen torch or lighter to caramelize the sugar until it turns golden brown and crisp.

2. Mix the drink: In the glass, add bourbon, vanilla bean syrup, aromatic bitters, and Angostura bitters.

3. Stir: Fill with ice and stir gently for about 20–30 seconds until chilled.

4. Garnish: Express the orange peel oils over the top, then drop it in. Add a toasted vanilla bean stick and a cherry or two.

5. Sip & enjoy: Your Vanilla Bean Brulee Old Fashioned is ready!

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 210
• Carbs: 9g
• Sugar: 8g
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Alcohol: ~14g

Tips and Variations

✅ Swap bourbon with rye whiskey for a spicier version.

✅ Use smoked sugar for the rim to add a smoky depth.

✅ If you don’t have a torch, use a hot spoon pressed against the sugar rim to caramelize.

✅ For a lighter version, cut the syrup in half.

Storing Tips

1. The vanilla bean syrup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

2. Don’t prepare the sugar rim until you’re ready to serve—it needs to stay crisp.

Helpful Tips

✔️ Always use a large ice cube if you can. It melts slower and keeps your drink from getting watered down.

✔️ Toasting the vanilla bean stick enhances the aroma and makes the drink smell as good as it tastes.

This drink is all about balance: don’t go heavy on the syrup or it will overpower the bourbon.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this with dessert, like a slice of cheesecake or a small plate of cookies.
• It pairs beautifully with fall appetizers such as spiced nuts or charcuterie boards.

FAQ

Conclusion

If you love bourbon and you love vanilla bean crème brûlée, then this Vanilla Bean Brulee Old Fashioned cocktail is going to become your new favorite. It’s rich, simple, and feels like a little celebration in a glass.

Give it a try, and let me know how it turned out for you! Did you go classic, or did you put your own spin on it? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your take.