Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail

Some days, my house runs entirely on caffeine, chaos, and the faint hope of bedtime. Last Tuesday was one of those days. My youngest refused pants for preschool, my middle one thought gummy bears counted as breakfast, and my husband texted, “be home late.” By 7 p.m., I needed something comforting that didn’t involve reheating leftovers for the third time. That’s when this Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail came to the rescue. It’s the kind of drink that makes you forget that you’ve stepped on 47 LEGO pieces before noon.

I’ve always loved fall – the cozy sweaters, the smell of cinnamon, and that first sip of something that feels like a warm hug after a long day. This Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail is exactly that. It’s smooth, subtly sweet, and just strong enough to remind you that you’ve got this – even when you don’t.

Why You’ll Love This

Because it’s quick, cozy, and feels way fancier than the five minutes it takes to make. The Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail has all the best parts of fall – crisp apple cider, smooth bourbon, and a little spice. It’s the perfect balance of warmth and flavor, making it ideal for cozy nights in, book club gatherings, or when you just need a solo moment of calm after bedtime chaos. You’ll love how this feels like an Apple Cider Old Fashioned Cocktail with a mom-approved twist.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
  
• 3 oz apple cider (fresh or store-bought)
  
• ½ oz lemon juice
  
• ½ oz maple syrup
  
• A pinch of ground cinnamon
  
• Ice cubes
  
• Apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish
  

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Cocktail shaker or mason jar with lid
  
• Measuring jigger or shot glass
  
• Strainer
  
• Two lowball glasses
  
• Spoon or stirrer
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Mix the base, combine bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, and maple syrup in your shaker. Add a pinch of cinnamon to bring that fall warmth.

Step 2:

Shake it up, fill the shaker with ice and shake until chilled. Think of it as your mini therapy session.

Step 3:

Strain and pour, divide into two glasses filled with ice. Garnish with apple slices and a cinnamon stick because presentation counts, even if the kitchen doesn’t.

Step 4:

Sip and enjoy, take a deep breath, take a sip, and remember that motherhood’s chaos pairs beautifully with bourbon.

What to Serve With

This Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail pairs perfectly with savory, cozy dishes. Try it alongside Mushroom Pasta for earthy comfort, Teriyaki Chicken Bowls for a sweet-and-salty balance, or go bold with Lobster Nachos for your next girls’ night. It’s also the perfect drink to serve with Thanksgiving appetizers or as a pre-dinner treat before turkey time.

Mom-Style Tips

• No maple syrup? Use honey or brown sugar syrup – no judgment here.
  
• Too strong? Add a splash of club soda or more cider.
  
• No shaker? Use a mason jar and call it “rustic chic.”
  
• Hosting? Multiply the recipe and serve it from a big pitcher. Bonus: it doubles as the world’s best air freshener.
  

FAQ

How strong is the Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail?

It’s the perfect “I survived another day” strength – smooth, balanced, and strong enough to take the edge off without tipping you over.

Can I make this without alcohol?

Definitely. Skip the bourbon and add sparkling cider or ginger beer for a fun Apple Cider Mocktail Recipe that’s equally festive.

What’s the best bourbon to use?

Go for a mid-range bottle – not the bottom shelf, not the fancy one you hide for guests. A good everyday bourbon works beautifully here.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Mix everything except the ice and refrigerate for up to a day. Shake before serving to wake up those flavors.

Can I use whiskey instead of bourbon?

You sure can. It becomes an Apple Cider Whiskey Cocktail, which is just as delicious and slightly spicier.

Try These Next

If you loved this, you’ll also enjoy exploring other Apple Cider Cocktail Recipes like the Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail or Fall Bourbon Cocktails that keep you cozy all season. You can even experiment with Fall Old Fashioned Cocktail variations for a classy twist on comfort.

A Toast to Chaos and Calm

So here’s to us – the moms who reheat coffee three times before noon, negotiate peace treaties over snacks, and still manage to make it through the day with humor intact. The Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail isn’t just a drink – it’s a tiny, boozy reward for showing up every day.

Because sometimes, the best way to handle life’s messes is one sip at a time – preferably one that smells like cinnamon and victory.