Apple Cider Cocktail with Bourbon

Name: Apple Cider Cocktail with Bourbon
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 3 min
Ingredients: 1 apple wedge; ½ tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp sugar; 2 ounces bourbon; 2 ounces apple juice concentrate; ice cubes; 4 ounces sparkling non-alcoholic apple cider

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Get ready for fall in just 3 minutes with this simple apple cider cocktail. Loaded with sparkling apple flavors spiced up with a dash of bourbon, the cinnamon-sugar rim perfectly tops it off and makes this a complete apple pie in a glass.

apple cider cocktail decorared with an apple wedge, with dried flowers all around

Why you will love this recipe

Tastes like an apple pie in a glass thanks to the cinnamon-sugar rim
Super festive with sparkling apple cider
Deep apple flavor thanks to the concentrated apple juice
A nice bourbon kick to break up the sweetness
It's quick and easy to make - just 3 minutes and a few simple steps
Easy to prep ahead so perfect for big parties

What you need to make it

ingredients needed to make an apple cider cocktail with bourbon

Ingredient substitutions

Bourbon can be switched for another type of whiskey, or rum
Non-alcoholic apple cider can be switched for hard cider, but that will make this drink a lot stronger
Sparkling apple cider can be switched for still apple cider - you might then want to add a dash of soda water to keep it sparkling

How to make it

collage showing how to make an apple cider cocktail with bourbon

Mix sugar and cinnamon on a plate. Rub the apple wedge all around the rim of the glass and then roll the rim in the cinnamon-sugar to coat.
Add bourbon, concentrated apple juice and ice cubes to the glass and mix
Fill up with apple cider
Decorate with the apple wedge and serve immediately!

Tips & tricks

To keep the apple wedge from browning toss it with some lemon juice
Make it non-alcoholic by swapping bourbon for ginger juice
Prep it ahead of time - add ice and apple cider right before serving

top down view of an apple cider cocktail decorared with an apple wedge

Recipe FAQ

What kind of bourbon should I use?

You can use any kind of bourbon - or another type of whiskey. I use Jim Beam or Jack Daniels.

What goes well with this apple cider cocktail?

The sweet apple flavors go great with blue cheese and camembert style cheeses, a classic turkey dinner, creamy dishes in general (think pastas, soups and creamy sauces) and roasted pork dishes. I'd recommend a Blue Cheese & Apple Puff Pastry Pizza, Gorgonzola Gnocchi with Walnuts or Red Wine Pork Chops.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, this is a great idea if you're making it for a big party - but don't finish it all the way. This is how I would do it:

1. Prep your glasses with the cinnamon sugar rim
2. Mix together the bourbon and concentrated apple juice in a pitcher or straight in the glasses
3. Chill if possible
4. Just before serving: add ice, fill up with sparkling apple cider, and decorate with an apple wedge

two glasses of apple cider cocktail decorared with apple wedges

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