Apple Bourbon Smash Cocktail
Crisp, smooth, and cozy—bourbon, apple, maple, and a hint of cinnamon, perfect for fall or anytime you want a refreshing, not-too-sweet whiskey drink. Easy to make, beautifully balanced, and always a hit with friends.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Jigger or shot glass
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Rocks glass
- Bar spoon or regular spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and small cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
- 0.5 oz pure maple syrup
- 0.5 fresh apple sliced
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon
- 2-3 dashes bitters such as Angostura
- ice cubes
- extra apple slices for garnish
- cinnamon stick for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Add fresh apple slices and maple syrup to the cocktail shaker.
- Sprinkle in a pinch of ground cinnamon.
- Muddle everything together to release apple flavor and mix with the syrup.
- Pour in bourbon and bitters.
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with extra apple slices and a cinnamon stick if you like.
Notes
Use your favorite bourbon or whiskey for the best result. Try different apples—tart or sweet—for a new flavor twist. No cocktail shaker? A mason jar with lid works great. Adjust maple syrup and bitters to taste. Always use fresh apple, not juice, for the best flavor.