Warm autumn evenings call for a drink that captures the essence of fall flavors. This caramel apple whiskey cocktail brings together sweet caramel, crisp apple, and smooth whiskey in a perfect blend that tastes like a candied apple for grown-ups.
The recipe combines whiskey, apple cider, caramel sauce, and a dash of cinnamon to create a cozy cocktail. It serves 4-6 people in under 5 minutes. The drink works great for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or any cool evening when you want something special.
The best part is how simple it is to make. The ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store, and the steps are straightforward enough for anyone to follow.
Caramel Apple Whiskey Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail strainer
- Apple slicer (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 oz caramel syrup
- 3 oz apple cider
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- Ice cubes
- Apple slices for garnish
- Ground cinnamon for rim optional
- Caramel sauce for rim optional
Instructions
- If using a cinnamon-sugar rim, dip the glass edge in caramel sauce and then in ground cinnamon.
- Fill the cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
- Fill the highball glass with fresh ice cubes.
- Strain the mixture into the glass.
- Garnish with fresh apple slices.
Notes
Tasting Notes
This caramel apple whiskey cocktail offers a sweet and warming blend of flavors. The caramel notes hit first, followed by crisp apple and smooth whiskey.
The drink has a rich amber color and silky texture. A light dusting of cinnamon on top adds warmth and spice to each sip.
Key Flavor Elements:
- Sweet caramel
- Fresh apple
- Warm cinnamon
- Oak and vanilla from the whiskey
The sweetness level is moderate, balanced by the natural tartness of fresh apple juice. The finish is smooth with lingering notes of caramel and spice.
This cocktail works best when served cold. The flavors blend together more smoothly as the drink warms slightly in the glass.
Temperature Recommendation: Serve at 40°F (4°C) for optimal taste.
The aroma combines fresh apple with warm caramel and subtle whiskey notes. A gentle shake of cinnamon adds an inviting spiced scent.
Substitutes
If caramel syrup isn’t available, you can make a quick caramel sauce substitute. Combine 1/4 cup brown sugar with 2 tablespoons water in a small pan. Heat until dissolved.
No fresh apples? Apple juice or apple cider work well in place of apple slices. Use 2 ounces of juice per drink.
Replace whiskey with bourbon or brandy for different flavor notes. Both spirits blend nicely with the caramel and apple flavors.
Non-alcoholic version: Mix apple juice with caramel syrup and a splash of sparkling cider. Add a dash of vanilla extract to mimic the warmth of whiskey.
For garnish alternatives, try:
- Dried apple rings
- Cinnamon sticks
- Apple-shaped cookie
- Caramel candy pieces
Make it spicier by adding:
- Extra cinnamon
- Ground nutmeg
- Apple pie spice blend
- Ground ginger
You can also skip the fresh apple garnish and rim the glass with cinnamon sugar instead. Mix 2 tablespoons sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
