A sweet and tangy twist on the classic martini awaits cocktail lovers with this caramel apple martini recipe.
This drink combines vodka, butterscotch schnapps, and apple juice to create a smooth, dessert-like cocktail that tastes just like a caramel-dipped apple.
The caramel apple martini makes a perfect choice for autumn parties and holiday gatherings.
The golden-hued drink looks beautiful in a martini glass with a caramel and sugar rim.
This recipe takes less than 5 minutes to mix up and uses a few basic ingredients you can find at most liquor stores.
The sweet, rich taste appeals to both casual drinkers and cocktail fans.
Caramel Apple Martini Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Martini glass
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Ice
- Small plate for rimming
- Small saucepan (for caramel sauce)
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz apple schnapps
- 1 oz butterscotch schnapps
- 1/2 oz caramel sauce plus extra for rimming
- Ice for shaking
- Green apple slice for garnish
For Homemade Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Pour caramel sauce onto a small plate.
- Dip the rim of a chilled martini glass in the sauce.
- Fill the cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add vodka, apple schnapps, and butterscotch schnapps to the shaker.
- Pour in 1/2 oz caramel sauce.
- Shake well for 15-20 seconds until very cold.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
- Garnish with a thin green apple slice.
For Homemade Caramel Sauce:
- Mix sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook until golden brown, about 8 minutes.
- Add cream and butter, then stir until smooth.
- Let cool before using.
Notes
Must Have Ingredients
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Tasting Notes
The Caramel Apple Martini delivers a sweet and crisp flavor profile.
The first sip brings notes of fresh green apple and rich caramel sweetness.
A subtle vanilla undertone from the vodka adds depth to the drink.
The caramel sauce gives a smooth, velvety texture that coats the palate.
The cocktail’s aroma mixes fresh apple and warm caramel scents.
These fragrances create an inviting fall-inspired bouquet.
Temperature affects the taste experience:
- Served ice-cold: Sharp apple notes shine
- Slightly warmed: Caramel flavors become more pronounced
- Room temperature: Not recommended, loses crispness
The finish is clean and bright, with lingering caramel notes.
The apple flavor stays fresh on the tongue without tasting too sweet or artificial.
The drink’s golden-amber color adds visual appeal.
A garnish of apple slice and caramel drizzle enhances both the presentation and the taste.
This martini pairs well with:
- Vanilla desserts
- Apple pie
- Salted nuts
- Dark chocolate
Substitute
You can make this drink without some ingredients.
Instead of apple schnapps, use apple juice or apple cider with a splash of vodka.
Mix 2 ounces of apple juice with 1 ounce of vodka.
For a non-alcoholic version, combine apple juice, caramel syrup, and a splash of sparkling water.
The bubbles add a fun touch.
Want to skip the caramel sauce?
Use butterscotch syrup or maple syrup for a sweet taste that works well with apple flavors.
Fresh apple slices make great garnishes.
If you don’t have them, try dried apple rings or a cinnamon stick for nice visual appeal.
Quick substitution guide:
- Apple schnapps → Apple juice + vodka
- Caramel sauce → Butterscotch or maple syrup
- Fresh apple → Dried apple or cinnamon stick
- Vodka → White grape juice (non-alcoholic)
The drink still tastes great with these changes.
Each swap keeps the apple-caramel theme while letting you use what you have.
