Caramel Apple Cider Crush Cocktail
Comforting caramel meets crisp apple cider and a bubbly finish for a cozy, refreshing fall cocktail you can shake up in minutes.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Measuring jigger
- Muddler
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Ice cubes
- Rocks glass
- Small plate
- Bar spoon
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka plain or caramel-flavored
- 3 oz fresh apple cider
- 1 oz caramel syrup
- 0.5 oz lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 2 oz club soda or sparkling water
- crushed ice
- apple slices for garnish
- caramel drizzle for garnish
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon optional
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg optional
Instructions
- Rim a rocks glass with caramel syrup or sugar, if desired.
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with crushed ice.
- Add vodka, apple cider, caramel syrup, and lemon juice to the shaker.
- Shake for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
- Strain into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with club soda and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with apple slices and a light caramel drizzle; sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon if you like.
Notes
Caramel vodka amps up the flavor, but plain vodka works too. For a less sweet drink, reduce the caramel syrup slightly.
Make it a mocktail by skipping the vodka and adding more cider or sparkling water. Serve immediately to keep the bubbles lively.