This bourbon apple cider cocktail serves one and blends smooth bourbon, crisp apple cider, a splash of brown sugar syrup, sprinkles of ground cinnamon, and ginger ale. If you're looking for a batch option, please increase the servings on the print page.
2ozbourbonor substitute rye, spiced rum, apple brandy, dark rum
½ozfresh lemon juicefrom 1 medium lemon
1teaspoonbrown sugar syrup (see note below), or maple syrup
¼teaspoonground cinnamon
Ice
Ginger ale to top
Apple slices for garnish
Instructions
Dip the rim of the serving glass in brown sugar syrup, then coat with a mixture of cinnamon and brown sugar (see notes below for ingredients).
Combine the apple cider, bourbon, lemon juice, brown suga syrup, and ground cinnamon in a shaker, add ice, then cover tightly.
4 oz apple cider, 2 oz bourbon, ½ oz fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon brown sugar syrup , ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, Ice
Shake vigorously until chilled. Pour into the prepared glass, then top with ginger ale. Garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks.For a stronger cinnamon flavor, add apple slices and cinnamon sticks into the shaker without ice and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving.
Ginger ale to top, Apple slices for garnish
Notes
For substitutes and a mocktail version, please refer to the body of the post for more information.
To make brown sugar syrup:
Combine ½ cup brown sugar with ½ cup filtered water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves, about 4 minutes. Allow to cool completely before using. Refrigerate in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
For the rim (If using)
2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 2 tablespoons lemon juice or maple syrup
Pour the maple syrup onto a saucer or wide bowl. Combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon on a separate plate, preferably one that is wide and shallow.
Dip the glass at a 45-degree angle, rotating it through the juice about a quarter inch, lightly coating only the outer edge.
Gently press the rim into the sugar mixture until evenly coated. Set it aside. Next, follow the recipe on the recipe card.