It’s approaching that time of year again…crisp leaves, tart apples, the smell of bonfire smoke…the perfect season. To kick off the beginning of autumn, we’ve whipped up these delicious, spiced Apple Cider cocktails made with bourbon and homemade cider, topped off with a cinnamon sugar rim. The perfect drink for dinner parties, or to enjoy fireside with friends, this cocktail can be enjoyed served both hot or cold.
Two recipes are below: the first is for the homemade cider, the second is for the cocktails. You may also use store bought cider if you wish. Enjoy!
Homemade Apple Cider
Ingredients
- 14 Medium-sized assorted apples
- 2 Oranges
- 3/4 Cup Brown sugar
- 5-6 Cinnamon sticks
- 1 Whole nutmeg
- 1 Tbsp Whole cloves
- 1 Tsp Whole allspice
Instructions
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Wash all fruit, cut into halves or quarters, and place in a large stock pot (seeds, peels and all) along with all other ingredients.
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Fill stockpot with water, leaving about 2-3" of space from the top of the pot.
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Boil uncovered for an hour, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
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After an hour, cover and simmer for 2-3 more hours, crushing fruit with the masher and stirring occasionally. Taste and add more sugar or seasoning to liking.
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Remove from heat, let cool and strain all contents through the cheesecloth into a clean container. Make sure to get every last drop from the cheesecloth: that's where the flavor is!
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Pour in jars and keep refrigerated. Serve hot with a cinnamon stick for garnish, or cold with bourbon. Enjoy!
Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktails
Ingredients
For the Drink
- 2 Parts Bourbon
- 4 Parts Apple cider
For the Cinnamon Rim
- 1 Tbsp Ground cinnamon
- 1 Tbsp Granulated sugar
Instructions
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If making the cinnamon sugar rim, pour a small amount of apple cider in a small dish. Mix the cinnamon and sugar together in a separate bowl until well combined. Dip the rim of a drinking glass of choice in the apple cider and then dip into the cinnamon sugar mix.
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Add 2 parts bourbon and 4 parts apple cider into the glass and stir. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick. Can be served hot or cold.
I can't wait to hear from you!