Apple Cider Bourbon

The Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail is the perfect blend of fall flavors, making it an instant favorite for autumn enthusiasts.

The tartness of fresh apple cider paired with the smoky, smooth notes of bourbon creates a balanced drink that’s both refreshing and warming. The richness of the bourbon contrasts beautifully with the subtle sweetness of apple cider, giving you a cozy, yet sophisticated cocktail.

Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, enjoying a quiet night in, or preparing for a holiday like Thanksgiving, this cocktail is a crowd-pleaser! It’s versatile, too—serve it chilled for a crisp sip or warm it up to create a comforting, fireside treat.

With a few simple ingredients, this cocktail is easy to whip up and customize to your preferences, making it the perfect addition to your fall drink lineup.

P.S. In a hurry? Click the “Jump to Recipe” button to skip ahead to the recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Apple cider – This is the star of the cocktail, providing a balance of tartness and sweetness. Fresh-pressed cider works best for that authentic autumn flavor.

Bourbon – Adds a rich, smoky depth to the drink that complements the sweetness of the cider. Choose a smooth bourbon that you enjoy sipping.

Maple syrup or honey – A natural sweetener that enhances the fall vibe, adding a subtle, caramel-like flavor to balance the bold bourbon.

Fresh lemon juice – Brightens the drink and adds a refreshing acidity that cuts through the sweetness.

Ground cinnamon or cinnamon sticks – Infuses the cocktail with warm, comforting autumn spices that tie the flavors together.

Optional garnishes: Top your drink with apple slices, a cinnamon stick, or an orange twist for an added touch of flavor and visual appeal.

Ingredients List

Here’s a list of ingredients with their measurements for the Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 4 oz apple cider
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz maple syrup (or honey, to taste)
• Pinch of ground cinnamon (or 1 cinnamon stick for garnish)
• Ice (for serving, if serving chilled)

Optional garnishes:

• Apple slices
• Cinnamon stick
• Orange twist

How to Make an Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail

Making an Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail is quick and easy, and you can choose between serving it chilled for a refreshing drink or warmed for a cozy fall treat.

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect fall cocktail:

1. Combine the ingredients

For a chilled version, add 4 oz of fresh apple cider, 2 oz of bourbon, 1/2 oz of lemon juice, and 1/2 oz of maple syrup (or honey) to a cocktail shaker.

For a warm version, combine these same ingredients in a small saucepan instead of a shaker.

2. Shake

If you’re making the chilled version, fill the cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds, ensuring the drink is well-chilled and mixed.

For the warm version, gently heat the mixture on the stovetop over medium heat. Be careful not to let it boil—just warm it through to release the flavors.

3. Strain and serve

For the chilled cocktail, strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.

For the warm cocktail, pour the heated mixture into a cozy mug, perfect for sipping by the fire.

4. Garnish

Add a cinnamon stick, a few apple slices, or a twist of orange peel for an extra festive touch. These garnishes not only look great but also add subtle aromas and flavors to enhance the drinking experience.

5. Enjoy!

Sit back and enjoy your Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail, whether chilled or warm—it’s the perfect way to embrace fall!

Variations & Customizations

One of the best parts of this Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail is its versatility. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or experiment with new flavors.

Here are a few ideas for variations and customizations:

Make it sweeter: If you prefer a sweeter drink, simply increase the amount of maple syrup or honey. You can also add a splash of apple juice for a fruitier sweetness.

Add a splash of fizz: For a fun, bubbly twist, top the cocktail with club soda or ginger beer. This adds a refreshing effervescence and a spicy ginger note that pairs beautifully with the bourbon and cider.

Spice it up: If you love warm spices, add a dash of nutmeg, cloves, or star anise. These spices can elevate the autumnal feel of the cocktail, giving it a deeper and richer flavor.

Use flavored bourbon: For an extra layer of flavor, try using a cinnamon or apple-infused bourbon. This enhances the fall vibe and adds a fun twist to the traditional bourbon base.

Warm or cold: Enjoy it hot for a cozy night in or serve it chilled over ice for a refreshing fall sip. You can even try a mulled version, heating the cider with spices for a few minutes before adding the bourbon.

Perfect Pairings for an Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail

The rich, spiced flavors of the Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail pair beautifully with a variety of savory and sweet dishes, making it a versatile drink for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.

• Savory pairings: Serve with a cheese board featuring sharp cheddar, brie, or gouda. These bold, creamy cheeses balance the smoky bourbon and tart cider, creating a harmonious contrast.
• Sweet treats: Complement the cocktail’s apple and spice flavors with classic fall desserts like apple pie, spiced cookies, or caramel-dipped apples.
• Seasonal snacks: Roasted nuts or pumpkin seeds provide a crunchy, salty contrast to the sweetness of the drink, enhancing its warming spices.
• Fall-themed appetizers: Pair the cocktail with spiced butternut squash soup or cinnamon roasted sweet potatoes for a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, especially if you’re serving it warm.

This cocktail is not only delicious but also perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a cozy and festive drink that’s equally enjoyable by the fire or as a signature drink for fall dinners.

Apple Cider Bourbon Recipe

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