Spiced Apple Cider Bourbon Recipe – Warm Winter Cocktail

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Spiced Apple Cider Bourbon Recipe – Warm Winter Cocktail

Okay, let’s be real – is there anything cozier than a warm, spiced drink on a chilly evening? I think not! This Spiced Apple Cider Bourbon cocktail is exactly that. I first made this a few winters ago when I was craving something a little special, a little warming, and a little… grown-up. It’s become a tradition ever since, and I’m so excited to share it with you. It’s super easy to whip up, perfect for holiday gatherings, or just a quiet night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another cocktail; it’s a hug in a glass! The warm spices beautifully complement the crisp apple cider and smooth bourbon. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and boozy. Plus, it takes just about 10 minutes to make – seriously! It’s a fantastic way to impress guests without spending hours behind the bar.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this winter wonderland in a glass:

• 1 cup (240ml) apple cider
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) brown sugar
• 3-4 cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• ?? teaspoon nutmeg (a generous pinch!)
• 2 oz (60ml) bourbon
• 2 oz (60ml) club soda

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients, because quality does matter here!

• Bourbon: Don’t be shy with the bourbon! A good quality bourbon makes all the difference. I like something with a bit of caramel and vanilla notes – Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace are great choices. But honestly, use what you enjoy.
• Apple Cider: Freshly pressed apple cider is amazing if you can get your hands on it. It has a richer, more complex flavor. But bottled cider works perfectly well too! Look for one that isn’t overly sweetened.
• Whole Spices: Trust me on this one – use whole cloves and a cinnamon stick instead of ground spices. They infuse the cider with a much cleaner, brighter flavor. Plus, they look pretty! Don’t skimp on the nutmeg either – a little goes a long way.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get mixing!

1. First, in a saucepan, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, cloves, cinnamon stick, and nutmeg.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to let those spices really meld.
3. Now, carefully strain the spiced cider through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof container. This gets rid of the cloves and cinnamon stick, leaving you with beautifully flavored cider. Let it cool slightly.
4. Fill a highball glass with ice.
5. Pour in the bourbon and club soda.
6. Top it off with the prepared spiced apple cider.
7. Give it a gentle stir.

Expert Tips

A few little things that’ll take this cocktail to the next level:

• Don’t over-stir! You want to keep some of that lovely fizz from the club soda.
• Taste as you go! Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your liking.
• For a really cold cocktail, chill your highball glass in the freezer for a few minutes before you start.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level Adjustments: If you like a bit more kick, add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper to the cider while it’s simmering.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: Skip the bourbon and add a splash of apple juice or sparkling apple cider instead. It’s still delicious! My cousin makes this for her kids all the time.
• Different Bourbon Types: Experiment with different bourbons! A rye bourbon will give it a spicier edge.
• Festive Garnishes: Get creative with your garnishes! An apple slice, a cinnamon stick, or even a star anise look beautiful. A sugared rim adds a touch of sparkle.

Serving Suggestions

This cocktail is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• Warm apple pie or crumble
• Gingerbread cookies
• A cozy night by the fireplace

Storage Instructions

This cocktail is best enjoyed immediately. However, you can make the spiced cider concentrate ahead of time. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just add the bourbon and club soda when you’re ready to serve.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• Is it better to use fresh apple cider or bottled? Fresh is best if you can get it, but good quality bottled cider works great too!
• Can I make the spiced cider concentrate ahead of time? Absolutely! It’s a great time-saver.
• What bourbon is best for this cocktail? Something with caramel and vanilla notes, like Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace.
• Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar? Maple syrup or honey would also be delicious! Start with a tablespoon and adjust to taste.
• How can I adjust the strength of the cocktail? Simply adjust the amount of bourbon. Start with 1.5 oz and add more to your liking.

Enjoy! I hope this Spiced Apple Cider Bourbon cocktail brings a little warmth and joy to your winter days. Let me know what you think in the comments below!