Apple Spice Bourbon Cider: A Warm, Spiced Fall Drink

Introduction

As the leaves turn golden and the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s no better way to embrace the season than with a warm, spiced drink that’s smooth, cozy, and packed with fall flavors. This Apple Spice Bourbon Cider is the ultimate fall indulgence—a perfect blend of sweet apple cider, rich bourbon, and warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Whether you’re curled up by the fire, hosting a fall gathering, or winding down after a chilly day, this drink is the definition of autumn comfort in a glass.

I first discovered the magic of apple cider and bourbon together on a fall weekend getaway in the countryside. A small-town distillery was serving hot apple cider infused with bourbon and holiday spices, and the first sip was pure fall perfection—sweet, spiced, smooth, and warming. It instantly became my go-to drink for crisp evenings, and I knew I had to recreate it at home.

This Apple Spice Bourbon Cider is easy to make, naturally sweet, and perfect for any fall occasion. It’s slow-simmered with apples, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, creating a rich, aromatic base that pairs beautifully with bourbon’s deep caramel and vanilla notes. Whether you serve it hot in a cozy mug or chilled over ice for a fall cocktail, this drink is a must-have for bourbon lovers and autumn enthusiasts alike.

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The Perfect Drink for Crisp Fall Evenings

This Apple Spice Bourbon Cider is the ultimate fall drink, balancing warm spices, sweet apple cider, and bold bourbon for a smooth, rich, and deeply comforting flavor. Here’s why it’s perfect for autumn:

• Apple cider provides a naturally sweet, fruity base that enhances the depth of bourbon.
• Cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg add warm, aromatic spice.
• Bourbon brings rich caramel, vanilla, and oak notes, making the drink smooth and bold.
• It’s incredibly easy to make and can be served warm or cold.
• It’s perfect for fall gatherings, cozy nights, and holiday celebrations.

Whether you’re warming up after a chilly hike, sipping it at a fall bonfire, or serving it at Thanksgiving dinner, this Apple Spice Bourbon Cider is the perfect way to toast to autumn.

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Picture Gallery

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Why Apple Cider, Bourbon, and Spices Work So Well Together

Apple Cider: Naturally Sweet & Crisp

Apple cider is the perfect fall drink on its own, but when combined with bourbon and spices, it transforms into a warm, rich, and deeply comforting beverage. The natural sweetness and slight tartness of apples create a balanced base that pairs beautifully with the smoky richness of bourbon.

Bourbon: Smooth, Bold, and Warming

Bourbon has natural notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, which complement the sweetness of apple cider and the warmth of spices. It’s the perfect spirit for fall drinks, adding depth and complexity to each sip.

Cinnamon & Cloves: The Classic Fall Spices

Cinnamon and cloves enhance the warm, spiced aroma of this drink, making it taste like autumn in a glass. They bring out the richness of the cider and add a cozy, festive touch.

Nutmeg & Ginger: A Subtle Kick of Warmth

Nutmeg and ginger add a gentle heat and depth that makes the drink even more inviting and aromatic.

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How to Make Apple Spice Bourbon Cider

Ingredients

For the Spiced Apple Cider Base:

• 4 cups fresh apple cider (unfiltered for the best flavor)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3-4 whole cloves
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground ginger (optional, for extra warmth)
• 1 orange, sliced (for citrus balance)

For the Bourbon Cider Cocktail:

• 2 oz bourbon (per serving)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Cinnamon sugar for rimming the glass (optional, for a festive touch)
• Apple slices & cinnamon sticks for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Spiced Apple Cider

1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and orange slices.
2. Simmer over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
3. Remove from heat and strain out the spices and orange slices.

Step 2: Mix the Bourbon Cider Cocktail

1. If serving warm, pour ½ cup of spiced apple cider into a mug and stir in 2 oz of bourbon, vanilla extract, and maple syrup (if using).
2. If serving chilled, let the spiced cider cool, then shake bourbon, cider, vanilla, and maple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice and strain into a glass.

Step 3: Garnish & Serve

1. Rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for a festive touch.
2. Garnish with apple slices, a cinnamon stick, or a star anise for extra flavor.
3. Serve warm in a mug or chilled over ice in a rocks glass and enjoy the rich, spiced bourbon warmth!

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FAQ Section

1. Can I make this drink non-alcoholic?

Yes! Simply omit the bourbon and enjoy the spiced apple cider on its own. You can also replace bourbon with a splash of vanilla extract and a little caramel syrup for a rich, warm flavor.

2. What’s the best bourbon to use?

A smooth, slightly sweet bourbon works best. Great options include:

• Woodford Reserve (rich and smooth)
• Buffalo Trace (slightly caramelized)
• Maker’s Mark (warm and balanced)

3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Combine all the spiced apple cider ingredients in a slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 2-3 hours. Add the bourbon just before serving.

4. Can I serve this cold instead of warm?

Yes! Simply chill the spiced apple cider and shake it with bourbon and ice for a refreshing fall cocktail.

5. How can I make this drink extra fancy?

• Add a dash of bitters for more depth.
• Top with whipped cream and a caramel drizzle for an indulgent touch.
• Serve it in a copper mug for a rustic autumn feel.

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Variations

• Apple Cider Old Fashioned: Muddle an orange peel and bitters into the bourbon cider mix.
• Caramel Apple Bourbon Cider: Stir in 1 tbsp caramel syrup for extra richness.
• Smoky Bourbon Cider: Use smoked cinnamon sticks or add a splash of mezcal for a smoky twist.
• Spiked Hot Toddy: Replace bourbon with spiced rum for a different twist.
• Apple Cider Mule: Add ginger beer for a bubbly, refreshing take.

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When to Serve It

Cozy Fall Evenings

Perfect for sipping by the fire on a cool autumn night.

Thanksgiving & Holiday Gatherings

A great seasonal cocktail for holiday dinners and parties.

Bonfires & Outdoor Fall Events

Bring a thermos of warm bourbon cider to sip under the stars.

Après-Ski or Post-Hike Relaxation

The ultimate warm-up drink after an outdoor adventure.

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Conclusion

This Apple Spice Bourbon Cider is the ultimate fall drink, combining sweet apple cider, warming spices, and smooth bourbon for a rich, cozy, and festive treat. Whether you serve it hot or cold, this drink is a must-have for crisp autumn nights, holiday celebrations, and cozy gatherings.

Try it out, customize it to your taste, and let me know how you like it! Cheers to warm, spiced, and bourbon-filled fall moments! 🍎🥃🍂