I am not a fan of overly sugary cocktails. I prefer to eat my sugar. But I also prefer a well-balanced drink. I’m too old for an adult beverage that tastes like something a frat boy would mix.

That’s why I am a big fan of this Lazy Old Fashioned recipe from the New York Times. Full disclosure, I am willing to consider any recipe that begins with the word LAZY. But what keeps me coming back to this recipe is how good it is. And it’s perfect for a lazy Saturday night.

Most Old Fashioned recipes call for simple syrup. They tend to be overly sweet; the syrup and cocktail cherries dyed cartoon red overpower the drink. Have a Bourbon and Cherry Coke instead.

There are a couple of ways you can adapt the Lazy Old Fashioned New York Times recipe to your personal liking:

• Use brandy or cognac instead of bourbon or rye for a smoother cocktail. Feel free to use grocery store brands. E&J XO brandy is highly recommended if you are on a budget.
• Use dark brown sugar to add even more depth.
• In a pinch, regular white sugar will do, but you’ll lose a richer note.
• If you want to skip the sugar altogether, add a slice of orange directly to the drink. The orange plays off the bitters and adds fruity notes that will balance the drink. 
• Want it sweeter? When you finish your Old Fashioned with a Luxardo or Amarena Fabbri cherry, add a bit of the syrup. 
• Why stop at one cherry? Go for more.
• No cherries? Go full lazy by wiping a twist of orange zest around the lip of your glass before tossing it in your drink. 

BOTTOM LINE:

The best Old Fashioned is the laziest one! Make this quick cocktail the next time you are craving a quality drink. It’s fast, simple, and will leave you feeling warm all over. 

The Lazy Old Fashioned from the New York Times is Nancy Approved.