Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail

If fall had a signature drink, this Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail would be it! Made with smooth bourbon, crisp apple cider, a splash of brown sugar syrup, sprinkles of ground cinnamon, and topped with ginger ale.

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Did I hear you say "sweater weather in a glass"? Whether you're hosting Friendsgiving, game day, or need a "me time" drink after the kids are down, this Bourbon and ginger ale Cocktail has you covered.

Bourbon apple cider cocktail garnished with apple slices.

Serve alongside my cranberry BBQ pork loin, peri-peri chicken, or crusted lamb chops.

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Why You'll Love This Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail Recipe
📃Ingredient Description
Bourbon and Ginger Ale Substitutes
📝Step-by-Step Instructions
✅Recipe FAQS
Love this Cocktail? Here are more Fall Cocktails to Try:
📖 Recipe

Why You'll Love This Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail Recipe

Quick & Easy: ready in 5 minutes or less, no fancy tools needed. You can stir this up in a tall glass and pour it over ice.
Great for parties: this cider cocktail is perfect for any gathering or time of year. It can be made by the glass or batched for a crowd. To batch for a crowd, mix all of the ingredients except the ginger ale in a pitcher ahead of time. Add ice and garnishes when guests arrive. Top with ginger ale when you are ready to serve.
Easily customizable: swap the bourbon for ginger beer to make it a non-alcoholic fall drink.

Love cider cocktails? Then you'll love my fan-favorite rum cider cocktail.

📃Ingredient Description

Here are the ingredients needed to make the apple cider cocktail:

The ingredients needed to make the bourbon and ginger ale cocktail.

Apple cider: I used 100% apple cider with no added sugar. Use fresh-pressed if you can find it. Spiced apple cider is equally significant as it adds an extra layer.
Bourbon: smooth and slightly sweet works best. I used knoble oak. Feel free to use Knob Creek, Woodford Reserve, or your favorite bourbon.
Fresh lemon juice: not only does lemon add a tart layer to the drink, but it also brightens the flavor and keeps it from being too sweet.
Brown sugar or maple syrup: These sweeteners add a deep, molasses-like flavor to the cocktail. Reduce the amount of brown sugar if using sweetened cider.
Cinnamon (ground or stick): Although optional, this warm spice elevates the overall taste of the cocktail. If using a cinnamon stick, steep it in the cider for some hours for the best result.

Please refer to the recipe card for the exact measurements.

Mocktail version: Substitute the bourbon with a splash of ginger beer or sparkling water for a family-friendly alternative.

Bourbon and Ginger Ale Substitutes

I understand not everyone keeps bourbon on hand, and some folks simply don't care for the taste. The good news? I've got you covered with easy swaps to keep the fall vibes on check so no one feels left out :

Bourbon and ginger ale in a glass with ice on top a serving block.

Rye whiskey: Sub the bourbon with whiskey for a spicier, bolder finish.
Spiced rum: pairs exceptionally well with cider; it's warm, sweet, and perfect for this cocktail. Try my rum cider cocktail if the sound of this made your mouth water.
Apple brandy(Calvados): If you prefer a fruity flavor, opt for apple brandy.
Dark rum: The smooth molasses notes of dark rum add significant depth when combined with brown sugar syrup.

Tip: If you use rum, reduce the brown sugar/maple slightly since rum brings its own sweetness.

It's important to note that when making substitutions in recipes, the texture and flavor may be slightly different. However, these substitutes are the best options for changing the original recipe.

📝Step-by-Step Instructions

Detailed instructions are outlined in the recipe card below, but here are a few steps with visuals to guide you:

Rimming the serving glasses and mixing the rest of the ingredients in a shaker.

Step 1: Dip the rim or the sides of the glass (as pictured) in liquid, then cinnamon sugar.
Step 2: Combine apple cider, bourbon, lemon juice, brown sugar syrup, and ground cinnamon in a shaker. Add ice, then cover tightly.

Shaking the ingredients in a shaker with ice, then straining into a glass.

Step 3: Shake the mixture vigorously for a few seconds until chilled.
Step 4: Strain the mixture into a serving glass, then top with ginger ale. Garnish and serve.

Other Ways to Enjoy this Drink

Brown sugar is the perfect upgrade to this fall cocktail. Start with the classic base (apple cider, bourbon, lemon, and brown sugar syrup), then serve it two other ways.

Hot: Serve it toddy-style by gently warming the cider, lemon, syrup, and cinnamon for when the temps fall, then add the bourbon before serving.
Sparkling: hanging with the girlies or bros for brunch? Skip the ginger ale, and top the base with Prosecco for a lovely sip.

Ginger ale topped with bourbon in a glass.

Pro Tip: Set out apple slices, then squirt some lemon juice over them to keep from browning.

✅Recipe FAQS

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can! Mix everything but the ice and ginger ale. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice or stir before serving.

What's the best bourbon for this cider cocktail?

A smooth and mild bourbon with notes of vanilla or caramel works beautifully when combined with cider. Nothing expensive or cheap. Consider Knob Creek, Woodford Reserve, Edmond's Honor, or Bulleit.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Pair this cocktail with hearty bites, such as Nigerian Meat Pies, Hot Honey Chicken Wings, or a sweet treat like your favorite spiced cake.

Love this Cocktail? Here are more Fall Cocktails to Try:

Have you given this recipe or any other from my website a try? Please consider leaving a ⭐ star rating and sharing your experience in the 📝 comments section. Your feedback means the world to me, and I'm excited to hear from you!

PEACE & LOVE

Maureen

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