5 Cocktail Recipes with Apple Cider

Apple cider, with its crisp and delightful flavor, brings a touch of autumn charm to any gathering. Its versatility extends beyond simply enjoying it in a mug. By incorporating apple cider into your cocktail repertoire, you can elevate your mixology game and offer your guests a delightful twist. Here are five compelling reasons why you should consider using apple cider in your cocktails.

Burst of Seasonal Flavors
Apple cider captures the essence of the fall season, making it an ideal ingredient for crafting cocktails. Its rich blend of fruity sweetness and tanginess compliments various spirits like whiskey, rum, and even vodka. By adding apple cider to your drinks, you infuse them with those warm, cozy flavors reminiscent of apple orchards and crackling bonfires.

Natural Sweetness and Aromatics
Apple cider boasts a natural sweetness that eliminates the need for artificial sweeteners in cocktails. This makes it an excellent alternative for those seeking a healthier option in their libations. The aromatic profile of cider, with hints of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, adds depth and complexity to your drinks, creating a sensory experience that will leave your guests craving more.

Versatile Pairing
Apple cider seamlessly complements a wide range of spirits and mixers, offering endless possibilities for a creative mixologist. Whether you opt for a classic whiskey-based cocktail with apple cider as a supporting ingredient or create a signature cider-based cocktail, the pairing potential is immense. Mix it with ginger beer for a zesty twist or combine it with cranberry juice for a seasonal punch. The versatility of apple cider empowers you to explore and experiment in your mixology adventures.

Refreshing and Light Alternative
While apple cider instantly evokes warmth, its effervescent nature also makes it an excellent base for refreshing and light cocktails. Mix it with sparkling water or champagne to create a revitalizing spritzer, perfect for brunch or a daytime gathering. The crispness of apple cider harmonizes beautifully with citrus juices, offering a vibrant and invigorating drinking experience that is sure to please any palate.

Crowd-Pleasing Allure
Apple cider cocktails have a universal appeal that transcends personal preferences, making them an ideal choice for entertaining a diverse group of guests. Its familiarity and comforting undertones create a sense of nostalgia and hospitality. By incorporating apple cider into your cocktail menu, you ensure that everyone can enjoy a flavorful libation, no matter their spirit preference or taste preferences.

Here are five delicious cocktails that incorporate apple cider for you to try at your next event.

Thanksgiving Margarita
2 oz Tequila
1 oz Organic Apple Cider
1 oz This Girl’s Margarita Mix
½ oz honey simple syrup
½ oz triple sec
Apple crisp garnish (recipe here)

Directions
Combine all the ingredients into a martini shaker filled with ice. Shake well to mix, then strain into a martini glass.

Thanksgiving Margarita

Thanksgiving Margarita

Apple Cranberry Bourbon Punch
1 bottle bourbon
1 bottle Prosecco or your bubbly of choice
2 cups organic apple cider
2 cups unsweetened cranberry juice
1 cup Licor
43 or vanilla liqueur

Directions
For best results with this recipe, chill all the ingredients ahead of time and wait to add the prosecco until your guests arrive. Combine all the ingredients in a large bunch bowl or pitcher. Garnish with apple slice wheels and whole cranberries.

Fall Harvest Sangria
1 bottle red wine
1 cup pear liqueur
1 cup organic apple cider
1 cup sour mix or This Girl Walks Into a Bar Margarita Mix
½ cup cinnamon clove simple syrup (recipe and directions below)
1 tablespoon cloves for garnish
2 - 3 apples for garnish

Cinnamon Clove Simple Syrup
5 cinnamon sticks
1 tablespoon cloves
2 cups sugar
2 cups water

Directions
(See simple syrup directions below)
Combine all the ingredients except for the apple wheels and cloves. Stir well to mix. Slice the apples and puncture with cloves to float in the sangria.

Simple Syrup Directions
Combine 2 cups of water, 2 cups of sugar, 5 cinnamon sticks, and 1 tablespoon cloves in a pan over high heat. Bring to a boil, stirring regularly. Once it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for an additional 20 - 30 minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to cool. Strain out the cinnamon and cloves and refrigerate until ready to use. 

Apple Cider Mimosa
1 oz organic apple cider
1 oz orange juice – pulp free
4-6 oz bubbly
Orange twist garnish

Directions
Add the apple cider and orange juice to a champagne flute. Tip the flute to a 45* angle and slowly add the bubbly. Garnish with an orange twist and serve.

Apple Cider Mimosa

Apple Cider Mimosa

Apple Cider Mimosa

Apple Cider Sour Martini
3 oz Vodka
1.5 oz organic apple cider
3/4 oz Cointreau
1 oz sour mix of This Girl Margarita Mix

Directions
Combine all the ingredients into a martini shaker filled with ice. Shake well to mix, then strain into a martini glass.

The captivating blend of seasonal flavors, natural sweetness, and versatile pairing options make apple cider an excellent addition to any cocktail menu. It adds a touch of autumnal charm and creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. So, next time you gather with friends or host a festive soirée, seize the opportunity to elevate your mixology prowess by introducing apple cider into your cocktail repertoire. Trust us, the result will be a sip worth savoring. Cheers!