Cozy Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned Recipe Perfect for Fall

Name: Cozy Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned Recipe Perfect for Fall
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ounces bourbon; 1 teaspoon chai syrup; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 dashes Angostura bitters; 1 orange peel (for garnish); 1 cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish); Large ice cubes or spheres

Posted on November 15, 2025

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Cocktails & Drinks

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The warmth of vanilla mixed with the spicy embrace of chai spices in a classic old fashioned cocktail—just the thought makes me want to grab my coziest blanket and settle in by the fire. The Cozy Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned takes your favorite fall flavors and layers them into a drink that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet evening solo, this recipe is an irresistible way to bring autumn to your glass.

I first stumbled upon this idea during a crisp October evening while sipping a regular old fashioned. I thought, “What if I swapped the bitterness for something sweet and spicy, like chai tea?” After a few rounds of tweaking, this creation was born. It’s indulgent yet simple, and honestly, it might just become your signature fall cocktail.

This recipe is perfect for fall gatherings, cozy nights in, or even as a unique addition to your Thanksgiving menu. Trust me, once you taste the blend of vanilla, chai spices, and bourbon, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner. Get ready—you’re about to fall head over heels for this seasonal favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for Fall: The combination of chai spices and vanilla captures the essence of autumn, making it ideal for chilly evenings.
Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy—most of the ingredients might already be in your pantry or liquor cabinet.
Quick to Make: This cocktail comes together in just a few minutes, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy.
Customizable: You can tweak the sweetness or spice levels to suit your preferences.
Unique Flavor: The blend of vanilla, chai, and bourbon creates a cozy yet sophisticated taste that’s unlike any other cocktail.

This Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is not your average drink. The addition of chai syrup makes all the difference. It’s warm, comforting, and just a little indulgent—everything you could want in a fall cocktail. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a Friendsgiving or just want to impress your dinner guests. Let’s get mixing!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple ingredients that pack a punch when combined. You’ll need:

Bourbon: Choose a smooth, high-quality bourbon. It’s the star of the show, so opt for a brand you love.
Chai Syrup: The key to this recipe! You can make your own by simmering chai tea with sugar or use store-bought chai concentrate.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds depth and rounds out the spices beautifully.
Angostura Bitters: Essential for balancing out the sweetness and enhancing the complexity of flavors.
Orange Peel: For garnish and a hint of zesty aroma.
Cinnamon Stick: Optional, but adds a lovely visual touch and extra warmth.
Ice: Large ice cubes or spheres work best to keep the drink chilled without watering it down.

If you want to make your own chai syrup, it’s super easy! Simmer 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 2 chai tea bags for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and let the syrup cool completely. Keep it stored in an airtight container in the fridge—it’ll last for up to two weeks.

Equipment Needed

Cocktail Shaker: Optional, but helpful for mixing the ingredients evenly.
Bar Spoon: A long spoon for stirring the drink directly in the glass.
Measuring Jigger: Ensures precise measurements for a perfectly balanced cocktail.
Rocks Glass: The classic glass for an old fashioned—sturdy and perfect for holding those large ice cubes.
Vegetable Peeler: For creating the orange peel garnish.

If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, don’t worry—you can stir everything directly in the glass for a more traditional approach. And while a jigger is ideal for accuracy, a tablespoon will work in a pinch!

Detailed Preparation Method

Start by preparing your chai syrup (if you aren’t using store-bought). Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 2 chai tea bags in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer and stir until the sugar dissolves. Remove the tea bags and let the syrup cool completely.
In a rocks glass, add 1 teaspoon of chai syrup and a splash (about ¼ teaspoon) of vanilla extract.
Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters to the glass.
Pour 2 ounces (60 ml) of your favorite bourbon into the glass.
Drop in a large ice cube or sphere. This keeps the drink cold without diluting the flavors too quickly.
Use a bar spoon to stir the mixture for about 20 seconds. This helps meld the flavors beautifully.
Using a vegetable peeler, peel a strip of orange zest. Twist it over the glass to release the oils, then drop it in as a garnish.
Optional: Add a cinnamon stick for extra spice and aroma.

And that’s it! Your Cozy Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is ready to sip and savor.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t skip the bitters: They balance the sweetness of the chai syrup and make the flavors pop.
Choose the right bourbon: A mid-range bourbon is perfect here. You don’t need the most expensive, but something smooth will elevate the drink.
Homemade chai syrup: Making your own syrup allows you to control the sweetness. If you like stronger chai flavors, steep the tea for a bit longer.
Ice matters: Large ice cubes or spheres not only look great but they melt slower, preserving the flavor of your drink.
Garnish with care: Taking a moment to express the orange oils over the glass adds an elegant touch and a burst of fragrance.

Trust me, a little attention to detail goes a long way in crafting the perfect cocktail. Stirring for the right amount of time and using fresh ingredients will make all the difference.

Variations & Adaptations

Non-Alcoholic Version: Swap the bourbon for unsweetened iced tea and add a splash of apple cider for a delicious mocktail.
Spiced Rum Twist: Replace bourbon with spiced rum for an even warmer, deeper flavor profile.
Extra Creamy: Add a splash of cream or frothy milk to create a chai latte-inspired cocktail.
Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar-free chai concentrate or make your syrup with a sugar substitute like stevia.
Vegan-Friendly: Ensure your chai concentrate or tea doesn’t contain dairy-based ingredients.

One of my favorite twists is adding a drop of almond extract for a nutty note—it’s subtle but so good! Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This cocktail is best served fresh, chilled, and garnished with care. Here’s how to get the most out of it:

Serving Temperature: Serve cold over ice in a rocks glass.
Presentation Tips: Garnish with an orange peel twist and a cinnamon stick for a festive look.
Complementary Pairings: Pair with spiced nuts, pumpkin pie, or a hearty charcuterie board.
Storage Instructions: The chai syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. Mix the cocktail fresh for each serving.
Reheating Tips: For a warm version, heat the chai syrup slightly and serve the cocktail without ice.

The longer the chai syrup sits in the fridge, the more the flavors meld, so it’s perfect for making ahead and using throughout the season.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

Calories: 150-170 (depending on the bourbon and syrup used)
Carbs: 10-12g
Sugar: 8-10g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g

The chai spices (like cinnamon and cardamom) have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, while the bourbon adds warmth and relaxation. It’s not a drink for every day, but it sure is a delicious treat!

Conclusion

The Cozy Vanilla Chai Old Fashioned is everything you love about fall wrapped up in a glass. With its warm, inviting flavors and simple preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening, this cocktail is sure to impress.

FAQs

Can I use whiskey instead of bourbon?

Yes, whiskey works well, but keep in mind that it may have a slightly different flavor profile compared to bourbon.

What kind of chai tea should I use?

Any chai tea you love will work! Loose leaf or tea bags are both fine—just ensure it has a robust, spicy flavor.

Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the chai syrup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Replace the bourbon with unsweetened iced tea and add a splash of apple cider for a delicious mocktail.

How do I adjust the sweetness?

You can add more or less chai syrup depending on your preference. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste.

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