Caramel Apple Cider Crush Cocktail Recipe

Cool air, crisp apples, and warm spices always make me think of fall gatherings. When I want something cozy but still refreshing, I reach for a drink that blends sweet caramel with tangy apple cider.

This Caramel Apple Cider Crush Cocktail brings comfort and sparkle together in one easy mix.

You can make it with simple ingredients and basic tools—honestly, you probably already have most of them. I’ll show you how I blend caramel flavor with cider and a little fizz for a drink that feels special without the hassle.

Each sip? It’s autumn in a glass—smooth, lightly spiced, and just sweet enough to enjoy whenever you feel like it.

Caramel Apple Cider Crush Cocktail Recipe

I usually make this drink when I’m craving something sweet, crisp, and not too fussy to prepare. Caramel, apple cider, and a splash of vodka come together for that balanced fall flavor—cozy but still a little lively.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker or just grab a large mason jar with a lid
• Measuring jigger or a small measuring cup
• Muddler or, honestly, a sturdy spoon works
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, if you want it really smooth)
• Ice cubes
• Serving glass—I usually go with a rocks glass or a small tumbler
• Small plate for rimming with caramel or sugar
• Bar spoon for stirring

I like to keep everything within arm’s reach before I start. That way, I can mix fast and keep things cold.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka (plain or caramel-flavored, whatever you have)
• 3 oz fresh apple cider
• 1 oz caramel syrup
• ½ oz lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 2 oz club soda or sparkling water
• Crushed ice
• Apple slices and caramel drizzle for garnish
• Optional: pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg

Fresh cider really makes a difference here. The caramel syrup brings in that smooth sweetness, and lemon juice keeps things from getting too heavy.

Instructions

• Rim your glass with caramel syrup or sugar if you’re feeling fancy.
• Fill the shaker halfway with crushed ice.
• Pour in vodka, apple cider, caramel syrup, and lemon juice.
• Shake it up for about 15 seconds, just until it’s nice and chilled.
• Strain the mix into your prepared glass with fresh ice.
• Top it off with club soda and give it a gentle stir.
• Add apple slices and a light caramel drizzle on top.

I shake just long enough to chill everything without watering it down. The fizz from the soda keeps it light and crisp.

Notes

Caramel vodka gives it extra flavor, but honestly, plain vodka works too. If you want it less sweet, just pull back a bit on the caramel syrup.

You can skip the vodka for a non-alcoholic version—just add more cider or sparkling water. It still tastes rich and refreshing, maybe even more so.

Serve it right away to keep the bubbles lively and the ice from melting too fast. Sometimes I’ll sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for a cozy scent.

Tasting Notes

Right away, I get that sweet caramel flavor. It’s smooth and buttery, and it blends with the crisp apple in a way that just works.

The cider brings in a light, fruity base. That keeps the drink from ever feeling too heavy, which I really appreciate.

Next up, the spices show up. I pick up on cinnamon and nutmeg—they warm things up, but don’t take over.

Honestly, it feels extra cozy, especially if you’re holding a warm mug.

When I go back for another sip, the vanilla vodka brings a gentle richness. Somehow, it pulls the caramel and apple together and leaves this soft, creamy finish.

The flavor lingers just enough to make me want to go back for more. Dangerous, right?

I’m into how the balance plays out here. It’s sweet, but not syrupy. Spiced, but never sharp.

Each flavor kind of knows its place, and nothing really shouts over the others.

Temperature and texture matter, too. If it’s warm, the drink feels comforting and smooth.

If I chill it, it turns crisp and refreshing. Either way, it keeps its flavor and is honestly just easy to enjoy.