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–+ servings

Apple Cider Bourbon Brew Cocktail Recipe

Apple Cider Bourbon Brew Cocktail Recipe
I combine apple cider and bourbon for a drink that’s warm, a bit spicy, and a touch sweet. You don’t need fancy tools or anything complicated.
John
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Serving Size 1

Equipment

  • A cocktail shaker helps mix things up nicely.
  • Measuring is easier with a jigger or even just some measuring spoons.
  • I grab a strainer so I’m not pouring ice chunks into the glass.
  • If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll use a muddler to add more spice, maybe some cinnamon.
  • For serving, I go with a rocks glass or honestly, any short glass I have around.
  • A bar spoon is handy if I want to stir instead of shake. I always keep a sharp knife and cutting board nearby for slicing up fruit garnishes—apple or orange slices work well.
  • Paper towels are a must for the inevitable spills.

Ingredients

For one drink, here’s what I use:

  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 3 oz fresh apple cider
  • 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup optional, if you want it sweeter
  • Ice cubes
  • Cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon for garnish
  • Apple slices for garnish

Fresh, cold apple cider always gives the best flavor in my opinion. I mess with the bourbon or syrup amounts depending on my mood.

Instructions

  • I start by filling my shaker halfway with ice. Then I pour in the bourbon and apple cider.
  • I add lemon juice to brighten things up. If I’m in the mood for a sweeter drink, I toss in the simple syrup.
  • After that, I shake it all for about 10 seconds—just enough to get everything mixed. I strain it into a glass with fresh ice.
  • On top, I’ll put a cinnamon stick or maybe just a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Sometimes, I’ll add an apple slice to the rim.
  • If I don’t have a shaker, I just stir everything together with ice in the glass. It’s best served right away.

Notes

I’ve made this with both regular and spiced apple cider. Spiced cider definitely punches up the flavor.
If I want it less sweet, I skip the syrup or go heavier on the lemon. For parties, I mix up a big batch in a pitcher, but I always add the ice last so it doesn’t get watered down.
Leftover cider and bourbon? They mix just fine for a quick drink later. Sometimes I swap out bourbon for rye or another whiskey—whatever’s in the cabinet.
Garnishes and spices change depending on the season or just what sounds good that day.