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Cozy Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail: Easy Fall Drink

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This cozy apple cider bourbon cocktail is the perfect fall drink, combining fresh muddled apple, warm spices, smooth bourbon, and sweet cider. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and tastes like a warm hug in a glass.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ounces (120 ml) apple cider
  • 2 ounces (60 ml) bourbon
  • 1 thin slice fresh apple (for muddling and garnish)
  • 1/2 ounce (15 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 ounce (15 ml) pure maple syrup
  • 1 small cinnamon stick (for stirring and garnish)
  • 2 to 3 whole cloves
  • 1 whole star anise (optional, for garnish)
  • A handful of large ice cubes

Instructions

  1. Place a rocks glass on the counter. Take a fresh apple slice (about 1/4 inch thick) and place it in the bottom of the glass.
  2. Add 2 to 3 whole cloves and the cinnamon stick to the glass on top of the apple slice. Using a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon, gently press down and twist the apple and spices to release the apple’s juice (about 15 seconds). Do not over-muddle.
  3. Pour 1/2 ounce of maple syrup and 1/2 ounce of fresh lemon juice directly over the muddled apple and spices. Swirl the glass to combine.
  4. Measure 2 ounces of bourbon and pour it into the glass. Stir briefly with a bar spoon.
  5. Add a handful of large ice cubes to the glass, filling it almost to the top.
  6. Pour 4 ounces of apple cider over the ice. Stir gently for about 10 seconds to combine all the layers.
  7. Garnish with a fresh apple slice on the rim and optionally float a star anise on top. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a warm version, heat the apple cider until steaming (not boiling) and skip the ice. Pour the hot cider over the bourbon mixture. To make ahead for a party, muddle the apple and spices in each glass ahead of time, then add liquids and ice just before serving. Leftover mixed cocktail (without ice) can be stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider bourbon cocktail, fall cocktail, easy cocktail, bourbon drink, apple cider drink, cozy cocktail, Thanksgiving cocktail

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/cozy-apple-cider-bourbon-cocktail-easy-fall-drink/