Spiced Apple Gin Sour Cocktail Recipe

I’ve always loved gin cocktails that hit that sweet-and-tart spot, and honestly, the Spiced Apple Gin Sour is one of those drinks I go back to when I want something a little different. This apple gin fizz brings together crisp apple, cozy spices, and smooth gin for a cocktail that’s easy to make and has its own personality.

It definitely gives off those cool fall day vibes, but I’ll admit, I make it whenever I feel like it—no need to wait for autumn.

The gin apple sour has this nice balance—sharp citrus, mellow apple, just enough spice to keep things interesting. If you’re into trying new gin drinks or just want a break from the usual sours, this one’s worth mixing up at home.

Spiced Apple Gin Sour Cocktail Recipe

What I like about this cocktail is how gin, apple, and warm spices come together for a drink that’s both smooth and a little comforting. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are straightforward—no fancy tricks, just a solid, flavorful result.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger or measuring spoons
• Fine mesh strainer
• Citrus juicer
• Bar spoon
• Rocks glass or coupe glass
• Small sharp knife for garnishes

I try to get my tools set up before I start. The shaker’s key for chilling and blending everything nicely. I always use a strainer to keep out pulp or spice bits—no one wants that in their glass.

Measuring makes a difference, and honestly, pouring into a fresh glass just feels right.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin (I usually go for a classic London Dry or sometimes a spiced apple gin)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 oz simple syrup or honey syrup (if I want extra warmth)
• 1/2 oz apple cider
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 thin slice fresh ginger
• 1 dash ground star anise or 1 small star anise pod
• Cinnamon stick (for garnish)
• Apple slice (optional, for garnish)
• Sprig of fresh thyme (optional)

A spiced apple gin or just a splash of apple cider really brings out that fruity, warm vibe. Lemon juice and syrup balance things out. Cinnamon, ginger, and star anise add gentle spice—nothing overwhelming.

Garnishes aren’t a must, but they look great and add a nice aroma.

Instructions

• Add gin, lemon juice, syrup, apple cider, ground cinnamon, fresh ginger, and star anise to a cocktail shaker.
• Fill the shaker with ice and shake it up for about 15 seconds, until it feels good and cold.
• Strain into a rocks or coupe glass with fresh ice.
• Garnish with a cinnamon stick, apple slice, and maybe a sprig of thyme if you’re feeling fancy.
• Serve right away and enjoy.

Shaking really brings everything together and chills the drink fast. Straining keeps things tidy, and those garnishes? They add just enough color and scent to make it special.

Notes

Sometimes I swap in lime juice for a different citrus kick. If I’m craving more sweetness, honey syrup works instead of simple syrup. And when I’m in the mood for extra spice, I’ll grate a bit of fresh ginger right in.

If you’re using ground cinnamon, it helps to mix it into the syrup first—otherwise, it tends to clump. I go for unsweetened apple cider so the drink doesn’t get too sugary.

Trying different gins, like a classic London Dry or something more floral, totally changes the feel of the cocktail. Chilling everything ahead of time, even the glass, keeps things crisp.

Pair this with some light snacks—nuts or mild cheeses are my go-tos. They let the spices in the drink shine.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of this Spiced Apple Gin Sour, the first thing that hits me is the crisp apple flavor. It’s fresh—definitely not too sweet, which I appreciate.

The spiced notes show up pretty gently. I’m getting hints of cinnamon, maybe a touch of clove, and somehow, those spices just fit right in with the gin.

The gin brings in a subtle herbal background. It’s not overpowering, but it gives the drink some real depth.

Honestly, I like how the botanicals sort of weave together with the apple and those warming spices.

Each sip finishes with a little tartness from the lemon juice. That bit of acidity keeps things bright and stops the drink from feeling heavy.

Flavors I can pick out:

• Apple (fresh and crisp)
• Lemon (zesty and slightly sour)
• Cinnamon and clove (warm, not overpowering)
• Herbal notes from gin

Honestly, this cocktail goes down pretty easy. That spiced apple vibe kind of makes me think of fall, but it’s honestly light enough to enjoy whenever.