The Dr. Pepper Old Fashioned is a playful and modern twist on the timeless Old Fashioned cocktail—a drink steeped in American history and known for its simple elegance. But where the original leans heavily on tradition, the Dr. Pepper version leans into fun, flavor, and unexpected delight. By introducing the sweet, slightly spicy kick of Dr. Pepper and the rich cherry undertones of cherry liqueur or syrup, this drink reinvents a classic in the most intriguing way. Whether you’re a fan of the classic cocktail scene or a lover of unique, soda-inspired drinks, this cocktail offers the best of both worlds.
The charm of the Dr. Pepper Old Fashioned lies in its clever balance—merging the deep, oak-aged warmth of bourbon or rye whiskey with the nostalgic fizz of one of America’s most iconic soft drinks. This combination gives you something that feels vintage yet modern, familiar yet daring. It’s the kind of cocktail you pull out when you want to impress guests or unwind with something comforting but a little extra.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic with a twist – If you’re a fan of the traditional Old Fashioned, this version keeps everything you love while dialing up the fun. With a splash of Dr. Pepper and a kiss of cherry liqueur, it transforms into a bold new creation that feels familiar yet refreshingly different. It’s a cocktail that tips its hat to the past while boldly stepping into something more playful and unexpected.
Aromatic and complex – This isn’t just a simple soda and whiskey mix. The bitters bring warmth and spice, the cherry liqueur adds depth and a touch of fruit-forward sweetness, and the whiskey lays the foundation with richness and a hint of smokiness. Each sip is a little journey, evolving as the ice melts and flavors mingle.
Easy to make – No shaking, straining, or bar tricks required. Whether you’re an experienced home mixologist or just starting to experiment, you can pull this off in under five minutes. Just pour, stir, and garnish—it’s that easy.
Great for bourbon and soda lovers – Can’t decide between a highball and a classic cocktail? Now you don’t have to. This drink is the best of both worlds, appealing to anyone who appreciates the elegance of a bourbon cocktail and the fizzy nostalgia of a soda pop.
Visually striking – The deep amber glow of the whiskey, the reddish tint from the cherry liqueur, and the sparkling fizz of Dr. Pepper make this drink visually irresistible. Top it off with a bright maraschino cherry and a curled orange peel, and you’ve got a cocktail that turns heads before it even hits the lips.
Versatile and crowd-pleasing – Whether you’re sipping it solo or scaling it up for a group, the Dr. Pepper Old Fashioned hits the sweet spot between classic and crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for dinner parties, movie nights, or just because.
Ingredients
-
2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey 🥃
-
1/2 oz cherry liqueur or cherry syrup 🍒
-
2 dashes Angostura bitters 🍹
-
Splash of Dr. Pepper 🧃
-
Ice 🧊
-
Maraschino cherry and orange peel (for garnish)
Preparation (Step-by-Step)
-
Chill your glass
Begin by placing an Old Fashioned glass in the freezer or filling it with ice water while you prepare the drink. A cold glass enhances the sipping experience and keeps the cocktail from diluting too fast. -
Build in the glass
Discard any ice or water in the glass if chilled. Add the 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey directly into the glass. -
Add cherry liqueur or syrup
Pour in 1/2 oz of cherry liqueur (like Heering or Luxardo) or, for a non-alcoholic twist, cherry syrup. This adds sweetness and depth, echoing the cherry flavor found in Dr. Pepper. -
Add bitters
Dash in 2 drops of Angostura bitters. These aromatic bitters add complexity and contrast to the sweetness. -
Add ice
Drop in a large ice cube or a few smaller ones. Larger cubes melt slower and prevent dilution. -
Top with Dr. Pepper
Add just a small splash of Dr. Pepper—about 1–2 oz. You want the soda to enhance, not overpower, the drink. -
Stir gently
Use a bar spoon to give it a few gentle stirs to combine all the ingredients without losing the fizz. -
Garnish
Twist an orange peel over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in. Add a maraschino cherry for sweetness and color.
Variation
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Smoky version: Use a smoky rye whiskey or even a peated bourbon to give the cocktail a bolder edge.
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Coke twist: If you don’t have Dr. Pepper, try Cherry Coke or regular cola with a dash of almond extract to mimic the flavor.
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Spicy cherry: Add a dash of chili tincture or a slice of jalapeño for a spicy-sweet finish.
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Zero-proof version: Use non-alcoholic whiskey alternatives and cherry syrup instead of liqueur for a mocktail-style treat.
Cocktail Note
The magic of this cocktail is in restraint. Too much soda can turn it into a spiked soda pop, but just the right splash elevates the flavors of the bourbon and cherry without drowning them out. Think of Dr. Pepper as the unexpected guest who makes the party more fun—but doesn’t take over the room.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve in a lowball or Old Fashioned glass with a large cube of clear ice.
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Pair with smoked meats, charcuterie, or rich desserts like dark chocolate truffles or cherry pie.
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Perfect for movie nights, retro-themed parties, or casual cocktail hours.
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Add a metal straw or garnish skewer for that extra classy touch.
Tips
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Use high-quality bourbon or rye for the best flavor—this drink shines when your base liquor is smooth.
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Fresh orange peel makes a huge difference. Always twist over the glass to release the citrus oils.
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If using cherry syrup, go easy—it’s sweeter than cherry liqueur.
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Chill your soda ahead of time to prevent ice melt from diluting the drink.
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Stir gently to preserve carbonation while still blending flavors.
Prep Time:2 minutes
Total Time: 3–4 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 190
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Alcohol by Volume (ABV): ~20–25% depending on bourbon and cherry liqueur used
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Sugar: Moderate (more if using cherry syrup and Dr. Pepper)
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Sodium: Low
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Protein: 0g
FAQs
1. Can I use Dr. Pepper Zero or Diet?
Absolutely! Both Dr. Pepper Zero and Diet Dr. Pepper work well in this cocktail, especially if you’re watching your sugar or calorie intake. Keep in mind that the flavor profile may shift slightly—Dr. Pepper Zero offers a bold taste closer to the original, while Diet Dr. Pepper tends to be less syrupy with a lighter finish. Either option retains that classic cherry-cola flavor while lightening up the overall sweetness of the drink. They’re great alternatives if you want to enjoy this cocktail more frequently or as a lighter sipper during warmer months.
2. What’s the best bourbon for this drink?
For a balanced and flavorful Dr. Pepper Old Fashioned, opt for a smooth, slightly sweet bourbon that complements the soda’s caramel and spice notes. Great options include Maker’s Mark, Bulleit Bourbon, and Woodford Reserve—each offering a warm, rounded character with vanilla and spice undertones. If you prefer something bolder, a rye whiskey like Bulleit Rye or Rittenhouse Rye adds a peppery bite that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the soda and cherry elements, giving the cocktail a more robust edge. The key is to choose a whiskey you enjoy sipping on its own, as its flavor will shine through.
3. Can I make this in a batch for a party?
Yes, this cocktail is incredibly party-friendly and easy to scale. To batch it, combine the bourbon, cherry liqueur or syrup, and bitters in a large pitcher or bottle ahead of time. Store it in the fridge to keep it chilled. When you’re ready to serve, pour the mix over ice in individual glasses and top each with a splash of chilled Dr. Pepper. This method preserves the carbonation and keeps the drink fresh. Garnish each glass with an orange peel and maraschino cherry for a polished presentation. For large gatherings, consider preparing a garnish tray in advance and offering guests a “build-your-own” station.
4. Is cherry syrup or liqueur better?
It depends on your preference! Cherry liqueur—such as Luxardo, Heering, or even Amaretto with cherry essence—adds depth, richness, and a slight boozy warmth to the drink, complementing the bourbon and creating a well-rounded flavor. It’s ideal for those who enjoy layered cocktails with complexity. On the other hand, cherry syrup (like grenadine or maraschino cherry syrup) offers a sweeter, non-alcoholic option that emphasizes the candy-like notes of Dr. Pepper and enhances its cola-cherry character. It’s great for lighter, dessert-style drinks or when serving to guests who prefer less alcohol. Feel free to try both and see which version you prefer—or even mix them for a unique blend!
5. Can I skip the bitters?
You can skip the bitters, but doing so will slightly flatten the drink’s complexity. Angostura bitters play a subtle yet crucial role—they balance the sweetness, add aromatic spice, and enhance the depth of the bourbon. Without them, the cocktail leans more toward a simple spiked soda. If you don’t have Angostura, you can experiment with other bitters like cherry, orange, or even chocolate bitters for a unique spin. But if you’re truly in a pinch, the drink is still enjoyable without them—just be aware that it will be sweeter and less nuanced. When in doubt, even a small dash makes a noticeable difference.
Conclusion
The Dr. Pepper Old Fashioned is a cocktail that dares to defy tradition in the best way possible. It holds onto the spirit of the classic Old Fashioned—bold, boozy, and refined—while infusing it with a splash of playfulness and modern flair. The result is a drink that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new, combining the familiar warmth of bourbon with the unmistakable charm of cherry cola. Whether you’re lounging on the patio with friends, hosting a dinner party, or simply indulging in a solo wind-down moment, this cocktail adapts to the vibe with ease. It’s effortlessly stylish yet approachable, sweet but balanced, and full of character—just like any great drink should be. And with its simple ingredients and room for customization, the Dr. Pepper Old Fashioned is as fun to make as it is to sip. So grab your go-to bourbon, your favorite glass, and a can of fizzy nostalgia. Stir it up, garnish with a twist, and raise a toast to reinventing the classics—one cherry-kissed, soda-splashed sip at a time.
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Dr. Pepper Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
- Total Time: 3–4 minutes
Ingredients
-
2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey 🥃
-
1/2 oz cherry liqueur or cherry syrup 🍒
-
2 dashes Angostura bitters 🍹
-
Splash of Dr. Pepper 🧃
-
Ice 🧊
-
Maraschino cherry and orange peel (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Chill your glass
Begin by placing an Old Fashioned glass in the freezer or filling it with ice water while you prepare the drink. A cold glass enhances the sipping experience and keeps the cocktail from diluting too fast. -
Build in the glass
Discard any ice or water in the glass if chilled. Add the 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey directly into the glass. -
Add cherry liqueur or syrup
Pour in 1/2 oz of cherry liqueur (like Heering or Luxardo) or, for a non-alcoholic twist, cherry syrup. This adds sweetness and depth, echoing the cherry flavor found in Dr. Pepper. -
Add bitters
Dash in 2 drops of Angostura bitters. These aromatic bitters add complexity and contrast to the sweetness. -
Add ice
Drop in a large ice cube or a few smaller ones. Larger cubes melt slower and prevent dilution. -
Top with Dr. Pepper
Add just a small splash of Dr. Pepper—about 1–2 oz. You want the soda to enhance, not overpower, the drink. -
Stir gently
Use a bar spoon to give it a few gentle stirs to combine all the ingredients without losing the fizz. -
Garnish
Twist an orange peel over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in. Add a maraschino cherry for sweetness and color.
Notes
The magic of this cocktail is in restraint. Too much soda can turn it into a spiked soda pop, but just the right splash elevates the flavors of the bourbon and cherry without drowning them out. Think of Dr. Pepper as the unexpected guest who makes the party more fun—but doesn’t take over the room.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 190
- Sodium: Low
- Protein: 0g