If you’re looking for a drink that perfectly balances the warmth of bourbon with the crisp sweetness of fall apples, you’ve just stumbled upon your new favorite treat. This Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail Recipe brings together smooth Crown Royal Apple Canadian Whiskey and luscious salted caramel whiskey, mixing them with fresh apple cider and sparkling ginger ale for a refreshing yet cozy experience. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or planning a festive gathering, this cocktail is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for your secret.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that harmonious flavor blend, from the rich, fruity whiskeys to the zingy ginger ale that adds a little sparkle and lightness.
- 1 oz Crown Royal Apple Canadian Whiskey: Adds a smooth apple-infused warmth that’s both comforting and flavorful.
- 1 oz Salted Caramel Flavored Whiskey: Brings a delicious sweetness with a hint of salt that perfectly complements the cider’s tartness.
- 3 oz Apple Cider: Provides a fresh and vibrant apple base that’s essential for that signature autumn vibe.
- 1 oz Ginger Ale: Lends a bubbly, slightly spicy lift that lightens the cocktail beautifully.
- Ice: Keeps everything refreshingly cold without diluting the flavors too much.
- Apple Slices: Perfect for garnish and adding a visual cue to the cocktail’s fruity essence.
How to Make Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail Recipe
Step 1: Combine Your Whiskeys and Cider
Grab your cocktail shaker and pour in both the Crown Royal Apple Canadian Whiskey and salted caramel flavored whiskey, followed by the fresh apple cider. This combination is the heart and soul of the cocktail, where the deep, fruity notes begin to meld with caramel sweetness.
Step 2: Shake to Perfection
Seal your shaker and give it a vigorous shake. This step chills the mixture and ensures that all the flavors are fully integrated, delivering a smooth and balanced taste with every sip.
Step 3: Add the Ginger Ale
Pour your shaken mixture into a glass filled with ice, then gently top it off with the ginger ale. The carbonation adds an irresistible effervescence that contrasts beautifully with the rich whiskey base.
Step 4: Garnish with Fresh Apple Slices
Finish off your Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail Recipe by garnishing with crisp apple slices. Not only do they add visual appeal, but they also enhance the fresh apple aroma as you sip.
How to Serve Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the classic apple slices, consider adding a cinnamon stick or a thin lemon twist to elevate aroma and presentation. These subtle touches bring an inviting warmth and extra charm to the drink.
Side Dishes
This cocktail pairs wonderfully with cozy fall snacks like spiced nuts, soft cheeses, or a warm apple and brie crostini. The richness and spice of the cocktail complement those flavors perfectly, making any gathering instantly feel more special.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, serve this cocktail in a rustic mason jar or a copper mug. You might also rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for an added layer of sweetness and a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to make more than one, store any leftover cocktail mix (without the ginger ale) in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Add the ginger ale and ice just before serving to keep the fizz and freshness intact.
Freezing
This cocktail isn’t ideal for freezing because the carbonation from the ginger ale and the delicate balance of flavors can be lost once thawed. For best results, always make it fresh.
Reheating
Since this is a cold cocktail designed to be enjoyed chilled, reheating isn’t recommended. Keep it icy fresh for the best taste and experience.
FAQs
Can I substitute other whiskeys in the Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail Recipe?
Absolutely! While Crown Royal Apple and salted caramel whiskey offer a distinctive flavor, you can experiment with your favorite apple or caramel-flavored whiskeys, but keep in mind the balance of sweetness and spice to maintain the cocktail’s signature taste.
Is it necessary to use ginger ale, or can I use something else?
Ginger ale adds a nice bubble and mild spice to this recipe, but you could swap it for ginger beer if you prefer a stronger ginger kick. Just be mindful that it might change the sweetness and intensity of the cocktail.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail?
Definitely! Use non-alcoholic apple-flavored whiskey alternatives or simply double up on the apple cider and add a splash of caramel syrup for sweetness, then top with ginger ale to keep that fizzy fun vibe.
What glassware is best for serving this cocktail?
A classic rocks glass or an old-fashioned glass works perfectly for this Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail Recipe, as it offers enough space for ice, the cocktail mix, and garnishes.
How can I make this cocktail more festive for holiday parties?
Try adding a cinnamon stick garnish, rubbing the rim with a bit of lemon juice and dipping it in cinnamon sugar, and serving with warm spiced nuts or baked apple treats to create a memorable holiday experience.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail Recipe is the kind of drink that feels like a warm hug in a glass, effortlessly combining cozy flavors that celebrate the best of the season. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it whenever you want to impress friends or simply enjoy a deliciously soothing beverage. So go ahead, mix one up and sip your way into autumn bliss!
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Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail Recipe
- Prep Time: 4 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A refreshing and cozy Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail featuring Crown Royal Apple Canadian Whiskey and salted caramel flavored whiskey, perfectly blended with apple cider and topped with ginger ale. This cocktail captures the essence of fall with a delightful balance of sweet, spiced, and bubbly flavors.
Ingredients
Liquors
- 1 oz Crown Royal Apple Canadian Whiskey
- 1 oz Salted Caramel Flavored Whiskey
Mixers and Garnish
- 3 oz Apple Cider
- 1 oz Ginger Ale
- Ice (as needed)
- Apple Slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine Liquors and Cider: In a cocktail shaker, add 1 oz Crown Royal Apple Canadian Whiskey, 1 oz salted caramel flavored whiskey, and 3 oz apple cider.
- Shake to Mix: Seal the shaker and shake well until all ingredients are fully combined and chilled.
- Top with Ginger Ale: Pour the mixture into a glass filled with ice and gently top with 1 oz ginger ale to add a fizzy finish.
- Garnish and Serve: Add apple slices to the rim or into the drink as garnish for an inviting presentation and extra flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Adjust ginger ale quantity to control fizz and sweetness level.
- Serve immediately to enjoy optimal chill and carbonation.
- Substitute gluten-free whiskey if needed.
