Apple Cider Gin Fizz Cocktail Recipe

I’ve got a soft spot for cocktails that feel seasonal but still taste crisp and refreshing, and honestly, the Apple Cider Gin Fizz is right up there for me. It’s got that nice blend of apple cider’s coziness and gin’s botanical punch, all finished off with a sparkle that makes it go down a little too easily.

This drink is such a simple way to get that sweet-tart-citrusy thing going in one glass. Not to mention, it’s ridiculously easy to throw together—just a few ingredients and you’re set.

The fresh apple cider brings in those autumn vibes, but thanks to the sparkling water, it never feels too heavy. I like that you can tweak the sweetness or the gin strength depending on your mood or who you’re making it for.

If you’re into cocktails that are both refreshing and have a bit of personality, I think you’ll really like this one. I’ll walk you through the ingredients and steps, plus what you can expect from each sip.

Apple Cider Gin Fizz Cocktail Recipe

For me, it’s the way the apple cider’s crispness meets the gin’s smoothness that makes this drink work. Cinnamon and lemon juice bring a little warmth and brightness, and if you’re feeling fancy, the egg white gives it that creamy foam on top.

Sparkling water just keeps everything light and sippable.

Equipment

I don’t go overboard with gear for this—just the basics. The right tools do make things easier and keep your drink consistent, though.

• Cocktail shaker (one that seals tight is best)
• Measuring jigger for getting those pours right
• Fine mesh strainer (especially if you’re using egg white)
• Bar spoon for stirring gently
• Citrus juicer for that fresh lemon kick
• Small paring knife for slicing apples
• Highball or coupe glass—totally your call
• Ice cubes for shaking and chilling

Honestly, I love a shaker with a built-in strainer—it’s just less fuss. And if you’re using egg white, don’t skip the fine mesh strainer. It keeps the foam nice and smooth.

Ingredients

I try to measure everything pretty carefully so the flavors don’t get out of whack. Seriously, fresh ingredients do make a difference.

• 2 oz gin (London Dry is a solid choice)
• 2 oz apple cider (I usually go for unsweetened)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 egg white (optional, for that foam)
• 2 oz sparkling water (chilled, always)
• 1 cinnamon stick (garnish)
• Apple slices (thin, for garnish)
• Ice cubes (for shaking)

If I’m craving something sweeter, I’ll use a cider with a bit more sugar. For a sharper, drier drink, I stick to the unsweetened stuff.

Instructions

Here’s how I usually put it together—nothing too complicated.

• Add gin, apple cider, lemon juice, and egg white to your cocktail shaker.
• Shake it without ice for about 10–15 seconds (that’s your dry shake for the foam).
• Toss in some ice and shake again until it’s nice and cold.
• Strain everything into a chilled glass using that fine mesh strainer.
• Top with sparkling water.
• Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a few apple slices.

If you’re using egg white, don’t forget to dry shake first. It really helps get that foam going before you chill it down.

Notes

Honestly, sometimes I’ll grab a coupe glass if I want the drink to look a little fancier. If it’s just a casual night, a highball works just as well.

Fresh lemon juice over bottled—always. It just brightens everything up. And if you remember, chill your glass ahead of time. It keeps the fizz around longer.

If you skip the egg white, the drink’s a bit lighter, but you lose that creamy foam. Every now and then, if my cider is on the tart side, I’ll sneak in a dash of simple syrup.

Tasting Notes

When I take that first sip, the apple cider jumps out at me. It’s crisp, lightly sweet, and honestly, the fruitiness is just enough—not overwhelming.

The gin brings in this clean, herbal vibe. I get some juniper, a bit of citrus, and it really helps even out the cider’s sweetness.

A little lemon juice sneaks in with a gentle tartness. It keeps everything bright, so the drink never feels too heavy.

The sparkling water adds that fizzy lift. Each sip feels lighter, and the bubbles help all the flavors mingle without any one of them taking over.

There’s a soft warmth from the gin at the end. It lingers just a bit, making the drink feel surprisingly cozy, but not in a way that’s too much.

Definitely serve this one cold. The chill keeps everything crisp, and honestly, the bubbles just seem happier that way.