Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cocktail blends two fall favorites — bourbon and apple cider — into one perfectly balanced drink. It’s quick to mix, requires only a handful of ingredients, and can be served chilled over ice or warmed for a cozy twist. It’s great for casual get-togethers, elegant dinners, or simply relaxing at home with a seasonal drink in hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bourbon
Apple cider (unfiltered, if possible)
Fresh lemon juice
Maple syrup or honey
Dash of bitters (optional but recommended)
Ground cinnamon or cinnamon stick (optional garnish)
Apple slices or orange peel (for garnish)
Ice

Directions

In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, maple syrup (or honey), and bitters (if using).
Add ice and shake well for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
Garnish with an apple slice, cinnamon stick, or twist of orange peel.
Serve immediately and enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 1.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: None
Total time: 5 minutes

To make a pitcher for a group, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings and stir in a large pitcher filled with ice.

Variations

Hot Version: Warm apple cider with maple syrup and lemon juice, then stir in bourbon. Serve in mugs with cinnamon sticks.
Spiced Cider: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the shaker, or use spiced apple cider.
Sparkling Twist: Top with club soda or hard cider for a fizzy version.
Apple Brandy Blend: Replace half the bourbon with apple brandy for deeper apple flavor.
Herbal Garnish: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme for a savory aroma.

Storage/Reheating

Make-ahead: Mix all ingredients (except ice and garnish) in a pitcher and store in the fridge for up to 1 day. Shake with ice just before serving.
Hot version: Heat cider, lemon juice, and maple syrup on the stovetop. Remove from heat and stir in bourbon before serving.

Best served fresh. Avoid storing the cocktail with ice to prevent dilution.

FAQs

What type of bourbon works best?

Choose a smooth, mid-range bourbon with warm, caramel notes. Bulleit, Maker’s Mark, or Elijah Craig are great options.

Can I use bottled apple cider?

Yes, just make sure it’s high-quality and unfiltered for the best flavor.

Can I make this cocktail hot?

Yes! Just warm the cider, lemon juice, and sweetener first, then add bourbon off the heat.

What’s the best sweetener for this drink?

Maple syrup adds depth, while honey offers a floral sweetness. Use whichever you prefer.

Is this drink strong?

It’s well-balanced. You can adjust the bourbon to taste if you prefer a lighter cocktail.

Can I batch this cocktail?

Absolutely. Multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher or punch bowl. Add ice and garnish just before serving.

What are good garnishes?

Try apple slices, cinnamon sticks, orange peel, or fresh rosemary.

Can I use hard cider instead?

Yes! Use hard cider instead of apple cider for a bubbly twist — just reduce the bourbon slightly.

Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?

Fresh lemon juice is best for brightness, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Can I make it non-alcoholic?

Yes. Skip the bourbon and add a splash of ginger beer or sparkling water for a mocktail version.

Conclusion

The Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail is the perfect sip of fall — warm, balanced, and full of seasonal flavor. Whether you prefer it chilled or hot, this simple yet sophisticated drink is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or quiet evening in. With just a few ingredients and five minutes of prep, it’s the easiest way to enjoy autumn in a glass. Cheers!

Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail

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The Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail is a cozy and comforting fall drink that blends rich bourbon, crisp apple cider, and a touch of citrus for a well-balanced seasonal sipper. It’s easy to prepare and can be enjoyed chilled or warm.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 cocktail
Category: Drinks
Method: Shaken
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon
2 oz apple cider (preferably unfiltered)
1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz maple syrup or honey
Dash of bitters (optional)
Ground cinnamon or 1 cinnamon stick (optional garnish)
Apple slices or orange peel (for garnish)
Ice

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Instructions

In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, maple syrup or honey, and bitters (if using).
Add ice and shake well for 10–15 seconds until chilled.
Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
Garnish with an apple slice, cinnamon stick, or orange peel.
Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

Use spiced apple cider for added warmth and depth.
To serve warm, heat cider, lemon juice, and maple syrup, then stir in bourbon off the heat and serve in mugs.
Make a pitcher batch for parties — just scale up the ingredients and chill until ready to serve.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cocktail
Calories: 175
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 2mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg