Sugar-and-Spice Rum Old Fashioned
By OcadoLife
Published on 30 July 2026
This Sugar-and-Spice Rum Old Fashioned from chef Marie Mitchell is a Caribbean twist on the classic cocktail. “For those, like me, who prefer rum to whisky, this version will have you feeling like the king or queen of the barbecue,” she says. The brown sugar syrup, spiked with cinnamon and allspice, adds gorgeous warmth and gives this tipple its edge. Allow at least 1 hr steeping time, or ideally overnight. This recipe makes 1 drink.
Time and servings
15 minsTotal time
5 minsPrep time
10 minsCooking time
Ingredients
- 110g soft light brown sugar
- 1 tbsp allspice berries
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 50ml dark rum
- 3 dashes Angostura Orange Bitters
- 1 orange zested
Method
Step 1
To make a spiced sugar syrup, combine the sugar in a pan with the allspice berries, cinnamon stick and 125ml water. Heat gently until the sugar has dissolved, then simmer for 5 mins. Steep for at least 1 hr or ideally overnight, then strain into an airtight jar or bottle (it’ll keep chilled for up to 2 weeks).Step 2
When you’re ready to make the cocktail, place a giant ice cube in a whisky tumbler. Add 2 tsp of the sugar syrup and 50ml dark rum, then stir slowly to combine. Add 3 dashes Angostura Orange or Aromatic Bitters (or a mix of both). Rub the rim of the glass with a twist of orange zest, then drop into the drink and serve.