This refreshing bourbon apple cider cocktail is a perfect blend of crisp apple cider, smooth bourbon, and a hint of spice – perfect for parties or your Thanksgiving meal!

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Easy Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail

The fall isn’t complete without some apple u-picking and nights of warm and cold apple cider! Whenever we are at our favorite orchard up in the Blue Ridge Mountains we always pick up a jug of their fresh apple cider and lots of crisp apples of course. This bourbon apple cider fizzy cocktail is super simple to make and is so fun to garnish. It is one of our favorites to make before Thanksgiving dinner, its always a fan favorite!

If you don’t have bourbon you can substitute whiskey or scotch of equal amounts. The most important flavor here is the apple cider so be sure to use really high quality cider and garnish well for a classy glass of fall flavors!

How to Make Apple Cider Bourbon Drink

First assemble the following ingredients:

• Apple cider (3 ounces) – Crisp and naturally sweet, apple cider provides a fruity base that complements the warmth of the bourbon.
• Bourbon (2 ounces) – The smoky, caramel notes of bourbon add depth and richness to the cocktail.
• Lemon juice (1/2 teaspoon) – A splash of lemon juice adds a bright, tangy balance to the sweetness of the cider and bourbon.
• Ginger beer or ginger ale (2 ounces) – The spicy fizz of ginger beer or ginger ale brings a zesty kick and effervescence to the drink.
• Apple slice, thyme sprig and cinnamon stick (garnish) – This fragrant garnish adds an aromatic touch, enhancing the cocktail’s presentation and flavor with autumnal flair.

Use this Method

Shake Liquors. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add cider, bourbon and lemon juice. Shake for 30 seconds and strain into ice-filled rocks glass.

Add Fizz. Top off with ginger ale or ginger beer.

Garnish. Add apple slice, cinnamon stick and thyme sprig to decorate it.

Tips and Tricks for Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail

Chill the Apple Cider: Make sure your apple cider is thoroughly chilled to keep the cocktail refreshing and cold.

Use Quality Bourbon: Opt for a mid- to high-quality bourbon for a smoother, richer flavor profile.

Fresh Apple Cider: If possible, use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for a more authentic, robust taste.

Adjust Sweetness: If the cider is too sweet, balance it with a splash of soda water or an extra squeeze of lemon juice.

Spice Up the Rim: Rim the glass with cinnamon sugar or a mix of spices for an extra layer of flavor.

Add Ice Strategically: Use large ice cubes or ice spheres to chill the drink without diluting it too quickly.

Garnish Creatively: Add thin apple slices, a cinnamon stick, or a sprig of thyme for visual appeal and subtle flavor infusion.

Experiment with Ginger: Swap ginger ale for ginger beer if you want a spicier, more intense ginger flavor.

Batch for Parties: For larger gatherings, make a big batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge, adding ice and ginger beer just before serving.

Infuse Bourbon: For a unique twist, infuse your bourbon with cinnamon sticks or cloves a day ahead to enhance the autumnal spice in the cocktail.

FAQs

What to Enjoy with Your Autumn Cocktail

Charcuterie Board: Pair the cocktail with a variety of cheeses, cured meats, nuts, and dried fruits to balance the drink’s sweetness and spice.

Crispy Apple or Pear Slices: Complement the apple flavors in the cocktail with fresh fruit slices, lightly dusted with cinnamon or served with a honey drizzle.

Spiced Nuts: Enjoy roasted or candied spiced nuts, such as cinnamon almonds or chili pecans, to bring out the warmth of the bourbon.

Pulled Pork Sliders: The rich, savory flavor of pulled pork sliders is a great match for the sweetness of apple cider and the smokiness of bourbon.

Pumpkin or Butternut Squash Soup: A bowl of creamy, spiced soup can create a cozy, autumnal meal when enjoyed alongside the refreshing cocktail.

BBQ Chicken Wings: The tangy, smoky flavors of BBQ wings contrast well with the sweet, spicy notes of the bourbon apple cider cocktail.

Soft Pretzels with Mustard: The salty and tangy flavors of soft pretzels with a mustard dip make for a satisfying snack that cuts through the sweetness of the drink.

Apple or Pear Tart: A warm apple or pear tart enhances the fall flavors of the cocktail, especially with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Maple-Glazed Bacon: Crispy bacon glazed with maple syrup brings a smoky-sweet contrast to the fruity cocktail, highlighting the bourbon’s caramel notes.

Caramel Popcorn: The sweet and salty combo of caramel popcorn makes a fun and flavorful pairing with the cocktail’s apple and bourbon tones.

Try these drinks:

Simple Eggnog Recipe

French Christmas Wine (Vin Chaud)

Pumpkin Old Fashioned

Pumpkin Pie Martini

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