Apple Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe

I really enjoy sharing easy drink recipes, and honestly, the Apple Bourbon Smash is one of my go-tos.

It’s simple, a little crisp, a touch sweet, and just strong enough for bourbon fans who like a bit of a kick.

Whenever I’m craving something fresh but still want that cozy vibe, this cocktail just hits the spot.

It’s perfect for fall, but honestly, I’ll make it whenever I want to impress friends or just unwind at home.

The mix of bourbon, apple, and lemon creates a smooth, flavorful drink that’s not fussy at all.

If you’re in the mood for a twist on the classic bourbon smash, this one’s easy to whip up and feels a bit special.

Apple Bourbon Smash Cocktail Recipe

This cocktail blends the warm, rich notes of bourbon and apple with a hint of maple. I’m always surprised at how just a handful of ingredients can make something so refreshing and a little bit spiced.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Muddler
• Jigger or shot glass
• Fine mesh strainer (optional)
• Rocks glass
• Bar spoon or regular spoon
• Measuring spoons (for cinnamon or syrup)
• Knife and small cutting board (for slicing apple)

I like to use my cocktail shaker to get everything nice and cold. The muddler is key for pressing the fruit and cinnamon into the syrup.

Sometimes I’ll use a fine mesh strainer if I want a super smooth drink, but honestly, I don’t always bother. A jigger helps me keep the pour right, so each glass is consistent.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
• 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
• 1/2 fresh apple, sliced
• 1 pinch ground cinnamon
• 2-3 dashes bitters (like Angostura)
• Ice cubes
• Extra apple slices, for garnish
• Cinnamon stick, for garnish (optional)

I usually go for crisp apples—Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are my favorites. The maple syrup brings just enough sweetness.

Cinnamon pulls it all together with a cozy spice, and bitters round out the flavors. Garnishing makes it look extra inviting.

Instructions

• Add fresh apple slices and maple syrup to the cocktail shaker.
• Sprinkle in a pinch of ground cinnamon.
• Muddle everything together to get the apple flavor going and mix it with the syrup.
• Pour in bourbon and bitters.
• Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
• Pop the lid on and shake well for about 15 seconds.
• Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
• Garnish with extra apple slices and a cinnamon stick, if you’re feeling fancy.

Muddling is what really brings out the apple and cinnamon. I always shake with ice to chill it down and get the balance just right.

Straining is nice for a cleaner pour, though sometimes I don’t mind leaving a few apple bits in there for a rustic touch.

Notes

Go for a good bourbon or whiskey—it really makes a difference. Sometimes I’ll swap regular maple syrup for a flavored one just to mix things up.

The apple you pick can change the whole drink—tart or sweet, it’s up to you. If you’re out of cocktail shakers, a mason jar with a lid totally works.

Feel free to play with the maple syrup and bitters to suit your taste. Less syrup if you want it drier, or more if you’re in the mood for something richer.

Fresh apples are best; I’d skip the store-bought juice if you can.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of the Apple Bourbon Smash, the first thing that hits me is the smooth mix of sweet and tart apple. The apple flavor comes through, but it’s not too sharp or cloying—just right, honestly.

There’s this gentle warmth from the bourbon that follows. It brings a rich, deep note, but doesn’t bulldoze the other flavors.

I appreciate the balance here—a bit of whiskey boldness, but the apple keeps things lively. The fresh lemon juice jumps out next, adding a zesty kick that slices through the sweetness.

Makes the drink feel super refreshing. I mean, who doesn’t want that?

There’s a faint herbal note from the muddled mint leaves. It’s not loud, but it gives an earthy twist that makes the drink a bit more interesting.

After I finish a glass, there’s this clean, fruity aftertaste and a soft bourbon finish lingering. The Apple Bourbon Smash is just easy to sip—crisp, smooth, not fussy.

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