If you’re after a simple drink with deep flavor, my Apple Cider Bourbon Brew Cocktail is a solid choice. I mix crisp apple cider with warm bourbon, a hint of cinnamon, and a squeeze of fresh lemon.

It’s easy to throw together, but somehow it ends up tasting like something a little more special. This cocktail works for cool autumn nights or just hanging out with friends.

I like the way the sweet apple and bold bourbon come together. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a drink that feels like it took more effort than it actually did.

Apple Cider Bourbon Brew Cocktail Recipe

I combine apple cider and bourbon for a drink that’s warm, a bit spicy, and a touch sweet. You don’t need fancy tools or anything complicated.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

A cocktail shaker helps mix things up nicely.
Measuring is easier with a jigger or even just some measuring spoons.
I grab a strainer so I’m not pouring ice chunks into the glass.

If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll use a muddler to add more spice, maybe some cinnamon.
For serving, I go with a rocks glass or honestly, any short glass I have around.
A bar spoon is handy if I want to stir instead of shake. I always keep a sharp knife and cutting board nearby for slicing up fruit garnishes—apple or orange slices work well.

Paper towels are a must for the inevitable spills.

Ingredients

For one drink, here’s what I use:

2 oz bourbon
3 oz fresh apple cider
0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
0.5 oz simple syrup optional, if you want it sweeter
Ice cubes
Cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon for garnish

Apple slices for garnish

Fresh, cold apple cider always gives the best flavor in my opinion. I mess with the bourbon or syrup amounts depending on my mood.

Instructions

I start by filling my shaker halfway with ice. Then I pour in the bourbon and apple cider.
I add lemon juice to brighten things up. If I’m in the mood for a sweeter drink, I toss in the simple syrup.
After that, I shake it all for about 10 seconds—just enough to get everything mixed. I strain it into a glass with fresh ice.

On top, I’ll put a cinnamon stick or maybe just a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Sometimes, I’ll add an apple slice to the rim.
If I don’t have a shaker, I just stir everything together with ice in the glass. It’s best served right away.

Notes

I’ve made this with both regular and spiced apple cider. Spiced cider definitely punches up the flavor.

If I want it less sweet, I skip the syrup or go heavier on the lemon. For parties, I mix up a big batch in a pitcher, but I always add the ice last so it doesn’t get watered down.

Leftover cider and bourbon? They mix just fine for a quick drink later. Sometimes I swap out bourbon for rye or another whiskey—whatever’s in the cabinet.

Garnishes and spices change depending on the season or just what sounds good that day.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip, the crisp apple jumps out first. The cider’s sweetness isn’t overpowering—it’s just right and blends in with the bourbon’s warmth.

The bourbon brings a smoky, almost oaky note. That mixes in with the cinnamon or whatever spice I’ve added.

I notice the spice lingers for a bit after each sip, which I like.

Sometimes there’s a little tartness, especially if I use a cider that isn’t super sweet. If I go with a brown sugar rim, it adds a bit of crunch and a subtle caramel note.

Honestly, the apple and cinnamon aroma hits before I even taste the drink. The finish is clean, with a gentle warmth from the bourbon that sticks around. Sweet and spiced—pretty much perfect for sweater weather.

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Substitute

If I don’t have bourbon on hand or I’m just not feeling like having alcohol, there are other ways to go. Here’s a quick table with some usual swaps I lean on:

Sometimes folks want something a little different. I’ll swap bourbon for dark rum if I’m chasing a sweeter vibe.

If someone’s skipping alcohol, apple juice is a no-brainer. Not fancy, but it works.

For a less sweet drink, I just use less syrup or go for honey instead. If I’m out of apple cider, pear juice is honestly a pretty solid backup.

Here’s a quick list for easy changes:

No bourbon? Use dark rum or whiskey.
No simple syrup? Try honey or maple syrup.

No apple cider? Use pear juice or spiced tea.

These swaps let me roll with whatever’s in my kitchen, which is kind of the point, right?

Apple Cider Bourbon Brew Cocktail Recipe