Tito’s Spiced Apple Cider Cocktail Recipe

When the weather gets chilly, I just want something simple—drinks that feel warm, cozy, and honestly, a bit nostalgic. Apple cider sort of screams fall, right? And when you toss in a little spice, it gets even better.\
Tito’s Spiced Apple Cider Cocktail is one of those easy mixes that blends crisp apple with smooth vodka and a gentle kick of spice.

I like this cocktail because it somehow finds that sweet spot between tart and sweet, but never feels too heavy. It’s great for a quiet night in, or if you’ve got a few friends over.\
No need for fancy gadgets or hard-to-find stuff either, which is a relief.

You’ll see in a second how fast this comes together, what goes in it, and maybe get a sense of the flavor before you even take a sip.

Tito’s Spiced Apple Cider Cocktail Recipe

I keep coming back to this drink because it’s just so easy—spiced cider and Tito’s Handmade Vodka go together really well. The whole thing is simple, but the spices and a bit of citrus make it feel special, especially when the evenings start to cool down.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker – I just use a basic one to get everything mixed.
• Measuring jigger – Helps me not overdo it (which I tend to do).
• Mixing spoon – Good for stirring the cider if it’s settled.
• Strainer – Keeps the ice and random fruit bits out of my glass.
• Cutting board and knife – For slicing up an orange or apple garnish.
• Serving glass – Short tumbler or even a mason jar does the trick.
• Small saucepan – Comes in handy if I want to warm the cider first.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Tito’s Handmade Vodka (it’s got a pretty clean finish)
• 4 oz spiced apple cider
• 1 oz ginger beer
• ½ oz honey (totally optional, but nice if you want it sweeter)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 orange slice
• Ice cubes
• Thin apple slices for garnish

I always go for fresh cider with real spice—none of that overly sweet stuff. The cinnamon and orange make it smell amazing.\
If I’m feeling it, I’ll add honey for a little extra smoothness.

Instructions

• Toss some ice in your cocktail shaker.
• Add 2 oz Tito’s Handmade Vodka and 4 oz spiced apple cider.
• If you’re using honey, pour in ½ oz, then shake everything up until it’s good and cold.
• Strain into a glass packed with ice.
• Top with 1 oz ginger beer for some fizz.
• Give it a gentle stir.
• Garnish with a cinnamon stick, orange slice, and maybe a thin apple slice if you’re feeling fancy.

If I want it warm, I’ll heat the cider in a saucepan first, then mix with vodka, skip the ice, and pour it into a mug.\
Honestly, that version’s perfect for cold nights.

Notes

Tito’s Handmade Vodka keeps things smooth and doesn’t overpower the cider’s spice, which I appreciate. Ginger beer adds a nice kick, and honey just softens everything out.

I like to let the cinnamon stick hang out in the glass for a bit—it slowly releases more flavor the longer it sits.\
Fresh orange slices brighten things up, and the apple slices just look good.

If I’m making this for a bunch of people, I’ll mix up a big batch of cider, vodka, and honey in a pitcher, then top off each glass with ginger beer right before serving.\
That way, the fizz stays fresh and the taste is spot on.

Tasting Notes

That first sip? It’s got this easy balance—crisp apple mingling with a mellow, warm spice. The cider’s light, honestly, and there’s a gentle sweetness that doesn’t really push its luck.

Cinnamon and clove sneak in, giving off this cozy vibe that hangs around just long enough. I actually notice the spice more once I’ve swallowed, which keeps things feeling steady and, well, kind of inviting.

Tito’s vodka? It blends right in—no harshness at all, which is a relief. Instead, it’s almost like the vodka just clears the way for the apple and spice to shine.

If you ask me, this drink’s at its best when it’s good and cold. The chill keeps everything sharp, but the spices still manage to show up in every sip.

Flavor Highlights:

• Apple: fresh, crisp, just a bit sweet
• Spice: warm cinnamon, hint of clove
• Vodka: smooth, neutral, quietly supportive

The texture’s smooth, easy to drink—nothing heavy or syrupy. I appreciate how that natural sweetness plays off the subtle heat from the spices.