Introduction
If you’re looking for the ultimate toasted marshmallow Old Fashioned Angels Envy recipe, you’ve just found it. There’s nothing quite like the cozy, smoky aroma of toasted marshmallow paired with the silky richness of Angel’s Envy Bourbon. This modern craft cocktail brings together nostalgic flavors and top-shelf bourbon to create a drink that feels both playful and sophisticated.
I first discovered this combination on a chilly autumn evening, inspired by memories of roasting marshmallows by the fire. That simple pleasure of warm, caramelized sugar sparked the idea of adding it to a classic Old Fashioned—and let me tell you, the result was better than I ever imagined. Whether you’re curled up on the couch in winter or hosting friends in the fall, this toasted marshmallow Old Fashioned Angels Envy recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Toasted Marshmallow Old Fashioned Angels Envy Recipe
This isn’t just a cocktail—it’s an experience. The beauty of this toasted marshmallow Old Fashioned Angels Envy recipe lies in its balance of flavors. The bourbon’s rich vanilla and oak notes blend seamlessly with the smoky sweetness of a perfectly toasted marshmallow. Every sip feels like a cozy night by the fire.
This drink is perfect for:
- Fall and winter gatherings where you want to serve something memorable.
- Casual nights in, when you’re craving something special.
- Entertaining guests with a show-stopping garnish of a fire-kissed marshmallow.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. No fancy bar equipment required—just your favorite bourbon, a marshmallow, and a little creativity.
What Makes Angel’s Envy Bourbon the Perfect Choice?
If you’ve never experienced Angel’s Envy Bourbon, this toasted marshmallow Old Fashioned Angels Envy recipe is the perfect introduction. What sets Angel’s Envy apart is its finishing process. Unlike traditional bourbons, Angel’s Envy is finished in port wine barrels, adding a layer of complexity that’s smooth, slightly sweet, and rich with notes of vanilla, caramel, and dried fruit.
This makes it the ideal base for this cocktail:
- Smooth and approachable, perfect for sipping or mixing.
- Rich in flavor, complementing the toasted marshmallow without overpowering it.
- Distinctive port-finished character, adding depth to every sip.
Angel’s Envy brings elegance to this playful recipe, elevating it from a novelty drink to a craft cocktail worthy of your best glassware.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this toasted marshmallow Old Fashioned Angels Envy recipe is simple and requires only a handful of ingredients:
For the Cocktail
- 2 oz Angel’s Envy Bourbon
- 1/4 oz simple syrup (or marshmallow syrup for extra sweetness)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters (or chocolate bitters for a dessert-like twist)
- 1 large marshmallow (regular or gourmet)
- 1 large ice cube (or several smaller ones)
- Garnish: Toasted marshmallow on a cocktail pick, optional orange peel
Optional Marshmallow Syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3-4 large marshmallows
How to Make a Toasted Marshmallow Old Fashioned with Angel’s Envy
Step 1: Toast Your Marshmallow
Begin by safely toasting a marshmallow until it reaches a golden brown, slightly charred finish. You can do this:
- With a kitchen torch for precision.
- Over a gas burner for convenience.
- Under a broiler (watch carefully to prevent burning).
This step not only adds smoky flavor but also creates an incredible aroma that elevates the entire drinking experience.
Pro Tip: Toast an extra marshmallow to use as a garnish. It looks great and doubles as a sweet snack.
Step 2: Build the Cocktail
- In a mixing glass or directly in your serving glass, combine the simple syrup (or marshmallow syrup) and bitters.
- Add the toasted marshmallow, gently muddling it to infuse the syrup with smoky sweetness.
- Pour in 2 oz of Angel’s Envy Bourbon.
- Add a large ice cube and stir gently for 20-30 seconds to chill and blend the flavors.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
- Skewer a toasted marshmallow on a cocktail pick and place it on top of the glass.
- Optionally, express an orange peel over the surface to add a bright citrus note.
Tips for the Best Results
Crafting the perfect toasted marshmallow Old Fashioned Angels Envy recipe is all about the little details. Here are my top tips to ensure every sip is as smooth and flavorful as possible.
1. Choose the Right Marshmallows
While regular marshmallows work perfectly fine, consider upgrading to gourmet vanilla bean or caramel swirl marshmallows for added depth of flavor. Brands like Dandies or XO Marshmallow offer high-quality options that melt beautifully and toast evenly.
2. Make Homemade Marshmallow Syrup
If you really want to elevate your cocktail, swap simple syrup with homemade marshmallow syrup. Here’s how:
- In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup sugar.
- Heat until the sugar dissolves, then add 3-4 large marshmallows.
- Stir until melted and smooth.
- Strain into a jar and cool before using.
This syrup infuses every sip with creamy, toasted marshmallow goodness.
3. Control the Toast Level
Experiment with how much you toast the marshmallow. Lightly toasted marshmallows add gentle sweetness, while deeply charred ones bring out smoky, caramelized notes. Find your perfect balance to suit your palate.
4. Use a Large Ice Cube
Large cubes melt slower, reducing dilution and keeping your drink perfectly balanced. If you don’t have large cube molds, several smaller cubes will do, but try to avoid crushed ice which melts too quickly.
5. Experiment with Bitters
While Angostura bitters are the classic choice, chocolate or orange bitters can add a new dimension. Chocolate bitters bring out dessert-like qualities, while orange bitters add brightness and complexity.
Variations to Try
The beauty of this toasted marshmallow Old Fashioned Angels Envy recipe is its versatility. Here are a few creative twists you might enjoy:
1. Smoked Glass Variation
Before building your cocktail, use a smoking gun or charred wood chips to infuse your glass with smoke. This amplifies the campfire vibes and adds a luxurious smoky layer to each sip.
2. Chocolate Marshmallow Old Fashioned
Swap Angostura bitters with chocolate bitters, and add a chocolate shavings garnish on top. You could also rim the glass with a bit of cocoa powder for extra indulgence.
3. Rye Whiskey Twist
Prefer a spicier kick? Substitute Angel’s Envy Bourbon with a high-quality rye whiskey. Rye’s peppery notes contrast beautifully with the sweet, toasted marshmallow.
4. Maple Marshmallow Version
Replace simple syrup with maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness that pairs perfectly with bourbon and marshmallow.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Wondering when and how to serve your toasted marshmallow Old Fashioned Angels Envy recipe? Here are some ideal moments and pairings to elevate the experience.
Perfect Occasions
- Holiday Gatherings: Impress guests with a cocktail that feels festive and thoughtful.
- Fall Bonfires: Serve these alongside real toasted marshmallows for a cozy night outdoors.
- Winter Nights In: Pair with a favorite movie or book under a warm blanket.
Food Pairings
- S’mores or Chocolate Fondue: Enhance the marshmallow theme with more chocolatey treats.
- Roasted Nuts or Charcuterie: Balance the drink’s sweetness with savory bites.
- Spiced Desserts: Think pumpkin pie, cinnamon rolls, or gingerbread cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different bourbon for this recipe?
Absolutely. While this toasted marshmallow Old Fashioned Angels Envy recipe is designed to showcase the smooth complexity of Angel’s Envy, you can substitute with another high-quality bourbon. Just be sure to choose one with warm, vanilla or caramel notes to complement the marshmallow flavor.
What if I don’t have a torch to toast the marshmallow?
No worries! You can toast your marshmallow:
- Over a gas stove burner using tongs.
- In the oven under the broiler (watch closely).
- On a barbecue grill if you’re entertaining outdoors.
The key is to get that golden, caramelized finish that adds smoky depth.
Can I make this drink in advance for a party?
Yes! You can batch the cocktail (minus the ice and garnish) in a pitcher:
- Multiply ingredients by the number of servings.
- Store in the fridge until guests arrive.
- Serve over ice and add the toasted marshmallow garnish just before serving for the full experience.
Is marshmallow syrup shelf-stable?
Homemade marshmallow syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week in a sealed jar. For longer shelf life, you can add a splash of vodka as a preservative, though it’s best when fresh.
History of the Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Classic That Started It All
The Old Fashioned is often called the grandfather of all cocktails. Its origins trace back to the early 19th century, where it was simply known as the “whiskey cocktail”—a straightforward mix of sugar, water, bitters, and spirits.
It wasn’t until bartenders began experimenting with other ingredients in the late 1800s that purists started requesting their drinks made the “old-fashioned” way. The name stuck, and today, it remains a timeless favorite on cocktail menus worldwide.
By adding a toasted marshmallow twist and choosing Angel’s Envy, you’re respecting tradition while giving it a delicious modern edge.
Exploring Angel’s Envy Bourbon in More Depth
The Legacy Behind the Label
Angel’s Envy isn’t just any bourbon. It’s a product of four generations of bourbon craftsmanship, started by legendary master distiller Lincoln Henderson. Known for his work with Woodford Reserve, Lincoln pushed boundaries by finishing his bourbon in port wine barrels—a technique rarely used in Kentucky bourbon production.
This port finishing gives Angel’s Envy its unique balance of caramel, vanilla, and dark fruit, making it ideal for enhancing rich, dessert-like cocktails such as this toasted marshmallow Old Fashioned Angels Envy recipe.
Creative Garnishing Ideas for Presentation
If you’re looking to wow your guests beyond flavor, here are a few presentation ideas:
- Rim the Glass with Crushed Graham Crackers
- Lightly wet the rim with orange or lemon juice and dip it in crushed graham crackers to give your cocktail a s’mores-inspired finish.
- Double Marshmallow Garnish
- Skewer two toasted marshmallows with a sprig of rosemary for an earthy, aromatic presentation.
- Flamed Orange Peel
- Express the oils of an orange peel over a flame to add a caramelized citrus aroma.
- Glassware Upgrade
- Serve in a crystal Old Fashioned glass with etched detailing for a touch of elegance.
How to Create a Toasted Marshmallow Cocktail Experience for Guests
Hosting a fall or winter gathering? Make this cocktail the star of your evening with these hosting tips:
- Set Up a Marshmallow Toasting Station
- Provide mini torches or skewers and let guests toast their own marshmallows.
- Create a S’mores-Inspired Snack Board
- Pair your cocktail with chocolate bars, graham crackers, and seasonal fruits like figs and apples.
- Offer Variations as a Tasting Flight
- Prepare three versions: classic, chocolate bitters, and maple syrup, allowing guests to experience different flavor profiles.
- Pair with Ambient Lighting and Music
- Dim the lights, light candles or a fireplace, and play soft jazz or acoustic tunes to complete the cozy vibe.
The Science Behind Why Toasted Marshmallow and Bourbon Work So Well
The Role of Maillard Reaction
When you toast a marshmallow, the browning you see is thanks to the Maillard Reaction—a chemical process that creates complex flavors and aromas through caramelization. This reaction produces nutty, toasty, and slightly bitter notes that contrast beautifully with the rich sweetness of bourbon.
Balancing Sweet, Bitter, and Smoky
The cocktail works on a sensory level because it balances:
- Sweetness from marshmallow syrup and bourbon’s caramel notes.
- Bitterness from bitters and toasted edges of the marshmallow.
- Smokiness from the charring process, which echoes the oak barrel aging of bourbon.
This balance is what makes this toasted marshmallow Old Fashioned Angels Envy recipe feel both comforting and complex.
Final Thoughts
The toasted marshmallow Old Fashioned Angels Envy recipe is more than just a seasonal cocktail—it’s a warm, inviting experience that merges childhood nostalgia with modern mixology. Whether you’re making it for a night by the fire, a holiday toast, or just to treat yourself, this drink delivers every time.
I’d love to hear how you make it your own. Do you add extra bitters? Use a flavored marshmallow? Share your version in the comments below—and don’t forget to rate the recipe if you love it!
Cheers to cozy nights, warm flavors, and great bourbon.
