Apple Cinnamon Bourbon Cocktail: A Warm, Spicy Holiday Treat

Introduction

When the temperatures drop and the holidays roll in, there’s nothing better than a warm, spiced cocktail to set the mood. This Apple Cinnamon Bourbon Cocktail is the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors, making it an ideal winter sipper. Whether you’re curled up by the fire, celebrating with friends, or looking for the ultimate holiday drink, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

I first discovered the magic of apple and cinnamon in a cocktail while visiting a winter market, where they served hot spiced apple cider with a splash of whiskey. The flavors were comforting and festive, but I wanted something a little more sophisticated and well-balanced. That’s when I started experimenting with bourbon, homemade cinnamon syrup, and fresh apple juice, and the result was pure holiday magic.

What makes this drink so special is the deep, rich flavor of bourbon, the natural sweetness of apples, and the warming kick of cinnamon and spices. Whether served warm or chilled, this cocktail is a cozy, comforting treat that tastes like the holidays in a glass.

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The Perfect Drink for Cozy Winter Nights

The holidays are all about warmth, nostalgia, and flavors that make you feel at home. This Apple Cinnamon Bourbon Cocktail is the ultimate cold-weather drink because it’s:

• Rich and smooth thanks to the caramel notes of bourbon.
• Perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Sweet and tart from fresh apple juice and a touch of maple syrup.
• Versatile—it can be served warm like a hot toddy or chilled over ice for a more refreshing option.

This cocktail is perfect for sipping by the fireplace, sharing with guests at a holiday party, or enjoying after a long day in the cold. It’s easy to make, yet elegant and festive enough to impress your friends and family.

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Picture Gallery

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Why Apple, Cinnamon, and Bourbon Work So Well Together

Apple: Sweet, Tart, and Fresh

Apples have a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the caramel and vanilla notes in bourbon. Fresh apple juice or cider enhances the fruitiness while keeping the cocktail light and crisp.

Cinnamon: The Ultimate Warm Spice

Cinnamon is the flavor of the holidays, bringing warmth and a subtle kick to every sip. It balances the sweetness of the apple while adding depth to the drink.

Bourbon: Smooth, Rich, and Caramel-Like

Bourbon is the perfect base for this cocktail because of its caramel, vanilla, and oak flavors. It enhances the sweetness of the apple and the spice of the cinnamon, creating a well-rounded, cozy drink.

Maple Syrup: A Natural Sweetener

Instead of refined sugar, pure maple syrup adds a deep, caramelized sweetness that complements both the bourbon and apple flavors.

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How to Make an Apple Cinnamon Bourbon Cocktail

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 3 oz fresh apple cider or apple juice
• ½ oz lemon juice
• ½ oz cinnamon syrup (recipe below)
• ½ oz maple syrup
• 1 dash Angostura bitters (optional, for depth)
• Cinnamon stick and apple slice, for garnish

For the Cinnamon Syrup:

• ½ cup water
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 cinnamon sticks

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cinnamon Syrup

1. In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, and cinnamon sticks over medium heat.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then let it simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let it steep for 15 minutes before straining.
4. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks in the fridge.

Step 2: Make the Cocktail

1. Fill a shaker with bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, cinnamon syrup, and maple syrup.
2. Add ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
3. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an apple slice.

Step 3: Optional Warm Version

1. Heat the apple cider, cinnamon syrup, and maple syrup in a saucepan until warm (but not boiling).
2. Remove from heat and stir in the bourbon.
3. Pour into a mug and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Yes! Just make sure to choose a high-quality, fresh apple cider without added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor.

2. What’s the best bourbon to use?

A bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes works best. Try Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, or Woodford Reserve for a smooth and flavorful drink.

3. Can I make this cocktail in a big batch for a party?

Absolutely! To serve a crowd, multiply the ingredients by 6-8 and mix everything in a large pitcher. If serving warm, keep it in a slow cooker on low heat.

4. Can I make this cocktail without alcohol?

Yes! Simply omit the bourbon and replace it with extra apple cider and a splash of sparkling water for a non-alcoholic holiday mocktail.

5. How can I make this drink spicier?

For an extra kick, add a small pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of ginger liqueur to the mix.

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Variations

• Smoky Version: Add a splash of smoky Scotch or use a smoked cinnamon stick for garnish.
• Ginger Apple Bourbon: Replace the cinnamon syrup with ginger syrup for a slightly spicier version.
• Cranberry Apple Twist: Add ½ oz cranberry juice for a tart, festive spin.
• Hot Toddy Style: Serve warm with a tea bag steeped in the mix for an extra comforting drink.

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When to Serve It

Cold Winter Nights

This is the ultimate cozy cocktail for chilly evenings by the fire.

Holiday Parties & Gatherings

A big batch of this cocktail will be a hit at any Christmas or holiday celebration.

Thanksgiving Dinner

The apple and cinnamon flavors pair beautifully with classic Thanksgiving dishes.

New Year’s Eve Toasts

A unique alternative to champagne for ringing in the new year with warmth and spice.

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Occasions to Serve It

• Christmas Eve & holiday celebrations
• Winter weddings & festive events
• Après-ski or post-snow activities
• Casual nights in with friends
• Thanksgiving cocktail hour

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Conclusion

The Apple Cinnamon Bourbon Cocktail is the perfect warm, spicy, and festive drink for the holiday season. It’s cozy yet sophisticated, sweet but balanced, and can be served hot or cold, making it incredibly versatile.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, relaxing by the fireplace, or looking for a unique seasonal cocktail, this drink is a must-try. Give it a go, experiment with different variations, and let me know how you like it! Cheers to warmth, good company, and delicious holiday cocktails! 🥃🍏✨