How many dashes of Angostura bitters are typically added to a Manhattan cocktail?

In a Manhattan cocktail, the typical amount of Angostura bitters added is around 2 to 3 dashes. This amount strikes a balance between enhancing the drink's flavor and not overpowering the other ingredients, such as the whiskey and sweet vermouth. The bitters are used to add depth and complexity to the cocktail, contributing aromatic notes that complement the sweetness of the vermouth and the richness of the whiskey.

Using 2 to 3 dashes allows bartenders to maintain control over the overall flavor profile, ensuring that the cocktail remains smooth and well-rounded. If fewer dashes are used, the cocktail might lack the necessary depth that bitters provide, while significantly more dashes could lead to an excessively bitter taste, diminishing the drink’s character. Thus, 2 to 3 dashes is considered the standard approach, which is why this answer is appropriate.