S’mores Old Fashioned: Your Ultimate Campfire-Inspired Bourbon Cocktail

If the mere thought of roasting marshmallows over a crackling campfire, nestled between squares of chocolate and graham crackers, fills you with nostalgic joy, then prepare to elevate that childhood delight into a sophisticated adult indulgence. This S’mores Old Fashioned cocktail is a masterful blend of those cherished flavors – smoky toasted marshmallow, rich chocolate, and sweet graham cracker notes – all built upon a robust, smoky bourbon whiskey base. It’s truly the perfect libation for sipping slowly by the warmth of a fire, whether it’s a summer bonfire or a cozy winter fireplace.

Why You’ll Love This S’mores Old Fashioned Cocktail

The S’mores Old Fashioned, often affectionately dubbed a “Campfire Old Fashioned,” is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. It takes the timeless elegance of the classic Old Fashioned cocktail and infuses it with a playful, whimsical twist, creating a truly unique and memorable beverage. This ingenious variation masterfully marries the deep, complex, and often smoky notes of bourbon with the irresistible, nostalgic taste profile of s’mores.

By incorporating distinct chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker elements, this cocktail transcends a traditional drink to become a dessert-like indulgence. Yet, it remarkably retains the depth, warmth, and sophistication that define an Old Fashioned. The inherent richness of bourbon, with its caramel and vanilla undertones, naturally complements the fire-roasted essence we associate with classic s’mores, making this pairing feel incredibly natural and harmonious.

Crafting a S’mores Old Fashioned is an ideal choice for anyone who appreciates bourbon-based drinks but desires a touch of innovative sweetness. The careful addition of high-quality chocolate bitters introduces a layer of complexity and a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness. Toasted marshmallow syrup provides the signature sticky-sweetness and a hint of a caramelized aroma. For an even deeper “campfire” feel, a whisper of smoked cinnamon or a specific brand of smoky bourbon can truly transport you to an evening under the stars. This thoughtful combination creates a cozy, inviting, and utterly delicious sip every time.

This delightful alcoholic beverage is perfectly suited for a variety of occasions. Imagine sipping it on balmy summer nights, gathered around a crackling bonfire with friends, or enjoying it as a sophisticated treat in front of a warm fireplace during the crisp autumn and chilly winter months. It’s a versatile cocktail that brings comfort and celebration to any season.

Essential Ingredients for Your S’mores Old Fashioned

Crafting this unique bourbon cocktail requires just a few key ingredients, each playing a vital role in recreating that beloved s’mores flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• 2 ounces bourbon or whiskey: The backbone of any Old Fashioned. Choose a quality spirit that you enjoy sipping.
• ½ ounce toasted marshmallow syrup (such as Torani): This is where the magic happens, infusing the distinct, sweet, and slightly caramelized marshmallow flavor.
• 2-3 dashes chocolate bitters (or mole bitters): Essential for adding depth, complexity, and that rich chocolate note without making the drink overly sweet.

For Garnish (Optional, but highly recommended for the full experience)

• Toasted marshmallow: The iconic garnish that brings the s’mores theme to life visually and aromatically.
• 1 Tbsp crushed graham crackers: For an authentic s’mores rim, adding texture and flavor with every sip.
• Extra syrup (for the rim): A small amount of marshmallow syrup, simple syrup, or even honey will help the graham cracker crumbs adhere to the glass.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your S’mores Old Fashioned

Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping S’mores Old Fashioned that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds:

1. Prepare your glass with a graham cracker rim: Begin by dipping the top edge of your chosen Old Fashioned glass into a shallow dish containing a small amount of marshmallow syrup (or your preferred sticky agent) to wet the rim. Next, gently dip the moistened edge into a plate or bowl filled with the crushed graham cracker crumbs, rotating it to ensure an even and attractive coating. For a creative presentation, you can also use a brush to apply the syrup to the side of the glass before pressing it into the crumbs, creating a unique visual effect.

2. Combine the base spirits: Into your prepared glass, pour the measured bourbon or whiskey, followed by the toasted marshmallow syrup. Stir these ingredients thoroughly with a bar spoon until they are well combined. This ensures the flavors are evenly distributed before adding the bitters and ice.

3. Add chocolate bitters: Carefully shake 2 to 3 dashes of chocolate bitters (or mole bitters for a spicier, more complex note) over the top of the liquid in the glass. The bitters will subtly infuse the drink with a rich chocolate aroma and a balancing hint of bitterness.

4. Finish and garnish: Gently add a large, clear ice cube to the glass. A large cube melts slower, ensuring your drink stays chilled without becoming overly diluted. Finally, complete your masterpiece with an optional garnish: a beautifully brûléed (toasted) marshmallow on a skewer, a cinnamon stick for added aroma, or even a twist of orange peel for a traditional touch. Serve immediately and savor every s’mores-inspired sip!

Perfect Pairings for Your S’mores Old Fashioned

This decadent S’mores Old Fashioned is a robust and flavorful cocktail that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sweet and savory bites. Choosing the right accompaniments can enhance the experience, complementing its smoky, sweet, and chocolatey notes.

Savory Pairings to Enhance the Smoky Notes

• Smoked Meats or Charcuterie: The smoky profile of the bourbon in your Old Fashioned finds a natural echo in smoked meats. Consider serving bourbon-glazed bacon, tender smoked brisket sliders, or a sophisticated charcuterie board. Include aged cheeses like smoked gouda or sharp cheddar, and a selection of cured meats such as prosciutto or salami. The interplay of smoky and savory creates a truly harmonious experience.
• Salted Nuts or Pretzels: A simple yet effective pairing. The salty crunch of gourmet salted nuts (think almonds, cashews, or pecans) or savory pretzels provides a delightful contrast to the sweet richness of the cocktail. This balance of flavors and textures is incredibly satisfying.
• Gourmet Flatbreads: Opt for flatbreads featuring strong, complementary flavors. Varieties topped with crumbled blue cheese, sweet caramelized onions, or salty prosciutto can create a wonderful sweet-and-savory match that stands up to the cocktail’s intensity.

Sweet Pairings for a Dessert-Like Experience

• Rich Chocolate Desserts: Given the chocolate notes in the cocktail, leaning into more chocolate is always a good idea. Serve with fudgy brownies, a rich flourless chocolate cake, or warm chocolate lava cakes. The cocoa in these desserts beautifully amplifies the cocktail’s own chocolate elements. For a quick option, try making Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Lava Cake.
• Toasted Marshmallow or S’mores-Inspired Treats: Embrace the theme fully! Cookies, cupcakes, or tarts that feature toasted marshmallow or s’mores components will create a delightful, cohesive dessert experience. Look for recipes that highlight the gooey marshmallow and crunchy graham cracker textures.
• Caramel or Butterscotch Desserts: The warm, vanilla, and caramel tones inherent in bourbon are perfectly matched by caramel and butterscotch desserts. Think creamy bread pudding, elegant crème brûlée, or even simple caramel-dipped fruit. These pairings highlight the sophisticated sweetness of the cocktail. You can easily prepare Air Fryer Creme Brulee or Caramel Candied Strawberries for delicious homemade options.

Seasonal Pairings for Year-Round Enjoyment

• Autumn Flavors: As the leaves change, so can your dessert pairings. Pumpkin pie, a creamy sweet potato casserole, or spiced nuts will complement the cozy, inviting campfire feel of the S’mores Old Fashioned, making it perfect for fall gatherings.
• Winter Treats: During the colder months, rich and warming desserts are ideal. Pair your cocktail with gingerbread cookies, festive peppermint bark, or a spiced fig and date cake. These flavors resonate beautifully with the cocktail’s inherent richness. Don’t miss my recipe for Microwave Peppermint Bark for a quick and easy holiday treat!

Expert Tips for Crafting the Best Campfire Old Fashioned

To ensure your S’mores Old Fashioned is nothing short of perfect, consider these expert tips that will elevate your cocktail from good to truly exceptional:

• It’s important to remember that an Old Fashioned, including this S’mores variation, is considered quite strong due to the relatively low ratio of mixers to alcohol. If you find the drink’s potency a bit too intense for your palate, you can easily adjust it. Try cutting it with a splash of cold water or a dash of club soda to lighten it without sacrificing flavor. Alternatively, adding a small amount of a cream liqueur with complementary chocolate or cinnamon notes (like creme de cacao or RumChata, as mentioned earlier) can not only reduce the alcoholic punch but also add a wonderful creaminess and extra layer of flavor.
• For the best possible experience, always use a large ice cube or sphere. The reason is simple: a larger ice surface area chills the drink more effectively while melting at a much slower rate. This slow dilution is crucial, as it keeps your cocktail perfectly chilled without quickly watering down the carefully balanced flavors of bourbon, marshmallow, and chocolate. I personally use a 2-inch cube mold, which creates a perfectly sized cube, but a spherical ice mold also works wonderfully and adds an elegant touch to your presentation.

Serving and Presentation Tips for a Memorable Cocktail

The presentation of your S’mores Old Fashioned can significantly enhance the overall drinking experience. Here’s how to serve and present this delightful cocktail to truly impress:

• When it comes to glassware, any type of lowball glass is ideal for an Old Fashioned. This includes a classic rocks glass, a dedicated whiskey tumbler, or a specific Old Fashioned glass. For an added touch of elegance, consider using cut glass, which catches the light beautifully and feels substantial in hand. If you plan to apply graham cracker crumbs to an entire side of the glass, a smooth-sided glass might be easier to work with.
• While garnishes are technically optional, I highly recommend including them, especially a toasted marshmallow, as it truly completes the s’mores theme both visually and aromatically. Other fantastic garnish choices include delicate chocolate shavings for an extra cocoa boost, a fragrant cinnamon stick for warmth, a classic slice or twist of orange peel to add a zesty brightness, a sprinkle of toasted nuts like pecans, or even a crispy slice of cooked smoky bacon for a daring and delicious sweet-and-savory contrast that surprisingly works well with the bourbon.

• Crown Royal Salted Caramel Old Fashioned: A luxurious and flavorful twist featuring salted caramel notes.

Final Thoughts: Savoring Your S’mores Old Fashioned

This S’mores Old Fashioned is truly more than just a bourbon cocktail; it’s a nostalgic journey, a delightful adult homage to a beloved childhood campfire dessert. With its harmonious blend of sweet graham cracker, gooey marshmallow, and rich chocolate notes, all expertly balanced by a robust and often smoky whiskey base that naturally carries hints of caramel and vanilla, it represents the ultimate grown-up way to indulge in a classic treat.

What makes this cocktail truly special is its versatility and customizable nature, much like building a traditional s’more. Feel free to experiment by using different flavored whiskeys – perhaps a maple-infused bourbon for an autumn twist, or a spiced whiskey for added warmth. You can also get creative with your garnishes, adding fun finishing touches like a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of maple syrup, or even a daring strip of smoky bacon for an unexpected savory counterpoint.

I find this drink to be particularly perfect for those long, warm summer nights spent gathered around a roaring bonfire, creating new memories under the stars. However, its cozy and comforting profile makes it equally suitable for the cooler seasons of fall and winter, especially during the festive holiday season. Imagine curling up with a S’mores Old Fashioned in front of a crackling fireplace on a chilly evening – it’s the epitome of a perfect, cozy night. Cheers to enjoying this unique and unforgettable cocktail!