Caramel Apple Vodka Smash Cocktail
This Caramel Apple Vodka Smash brings together sweet caramel, crisp apple, and smooth vodka for a cozy, inviting, and easy fall cocktail. It's perfect for parties, special occasions, or just a relaxing evening—no fancy skills required!
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Strainer
- Rocks glass
- Small plate
- Measuring jigger
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 oz caramel vodka or plain vodka + splash caramel syrup
- 1 oz bourbon optional, for richness
- 1/2 apple sliced, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- 3/4 oz caramel syrup or caramel sauce
- 1 oz apple cider not apple juice
- 1/2 oz lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 2 dashes bitters
- club soda to top
- apple pie spice optional pinch
- cinnamon sugar for rim, optional
- extra caramel sauce for drizzling, optional
- thin apple slices for garnish
- cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions
- Run a lemon wedge around the rim of a rocks glass and dip in cinnamon sugar if desired.
- Add apple slices to a cocktail shaker and muddle gently to release juices.
- Pour in caramel vodka, bourbon (if using), caramel syrup, apple cider, lemon juice, and bitters.
- Strain into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a splash of club soda for fizz.
- Garnish with an apple slice, caramel drizzle, or a cinnamon stick. Dust with apple pie spice if desired.
Notes
Store-bought caramel vodka is smooth, but a spoonful of caramel syrup with plain vodka works too. Tart apples keep it balanced, and the bourbon is optional but adds depth. Fresh lemon brightens each sip. For less sweetness, use less caramel or extra lemon. Try a cinnamon sugar rim or a caramel drizzle for a special touch.