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Easy Cozy Spiced Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail Recipe

spiced apple cider bourbon cocktail - featured image

A warm, spiced apple cider bourbon cocktail that comes together in about five minutes. Perfect for cozy fall nights, this drink balances apple cider, bourbon, and pantry spices for ultimate comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 oz (120 ml) apple cider
  • 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon (e.g., Bulleit or Woodford Reserve)
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) real maple syrup
  • 1 whole cinnamon stick
  • 23 whole cloves
  • 1 whole star anise (optional)
  • 1 strip orange peel
  • Apple slices (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Warm the cider with spices: In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise (if using), and orange peel. Warm over medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling (3-4 minutes).
  2. Stir in the maple syrup: Remove from heat and stir in maple syrup until dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
  3. Pour the bourbon into your mug: Measure 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon into a mug or heatproof glass.
  4. Strain the spiced cider over the bourbon: If desired, strain the cider through a fine mesh strainer into the mug, or pour directly. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Garnish and serve immediately: Float a thin apple slice on top. Add a fresh cinnamon stick for stirring if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Do not boil the cider; low and slow is key. Taste the cider before adding bourbon to adjust sweetness. For a crowd, multiply cider and spice quantities and keep bourbon separate for guests to add. The spiced cider base can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider, bourbon, cocktail, fall, spiced, warm, cozy, maple syrup, cinnamon, cloves