A classic Old Fashioned cocktail has been an American favorite for over a century. This smoky version offers a new holiday spin with the addition of maple and pecan-flavored simple syrup.

Smoked Maple-Pecan Old Fashioned

For simple syrup, toast pecan halves in a small saucepan over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes or until fragrant, stirring frequently. Add maple syrup and water. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer, uncovered, for 3 to 4 minutes or until syrupy. Cool completely. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve; discard pecans. Cover and refrigerate up to 2 weeks. 

For Old Fashioned, combine bourbon, simple syrup and bitters in a 1-cup glass measuring cup. Using a Viski smoked cocktail kit, smoke bourbon mixture according to manufacturer’s directions. 

To serve, place a 2-in.-square ice cube in a 12-oz. cocktail glass. Pour smoked bourbon mixture over ice. Garnish with orange peel, if desired.