A Cozy Sip to Brighten Your Day

Ever taken a sip of autumn in a glass? This Apple Cider Bourbon Smash captures that harvest vibe with every refreshing gulp! Think of it as the warm embrace of bourbon meeting the crispness of fresh apple cider, all brought together with a zesty kick of lemon. Enjoying this drink can make any day feel like a little celebration, and trust me, it doesn’t get much easier or tastier than this!

Why Make This Recipe

Why bother with fussy cocktails when you can whip up this delightful smash in no time? Here’s why everyone’s going to love it:

Quick and Easy: You’re shaking things up in just a few minutes—perfect for a last-minute get-together!
Minimal Cleanup: One cocktail shaker means there’s less time spent cleaning and more time enjoying.
Perfect for Everyone: Both bourbon lovers and newbies can appreciate this balance of flavors, which means you’ll become the star of any gathering! 🍏

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics! Gather these:

1 lemon (cut into 8 wedges)
4 oz bourbon
5 oz fresh apple cider (unfiltered preferred)
Apple slices, for garnish
1 cinnamon stick, for garnish
Optional: 4 sprigs fresh thyme

Directions

Making this cocktail is a breeze! Follow these simple steps:

Place lemon wedges in a cocktail shaker and muddle for at least 2 minutes to release the juice and zest.
Add bourbon and apple cider to the shaker.
Fill the shaker halfway with ice; cap it and shake vigorously for 20 seconds.
Strain into glasses filled with fresh ice.
Garnish each glass with apple slices, a cinnamon stick, and thyme if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Make Apple Cider Bourbon Smash (Overview)

Now, let’s chat about creating this autumnal delight! Start by muddling those lemon wedges like you mean it—this step ensures all that vibrant juice and aroma get released. Once that’s done, simply mix in the bourbon and apple cider; it’s already coming together, right? Shake it all up like you’re shaking the week off, then strain it into glasses. Pro tip: Use freshly crushed ice for an extra chill and a crunch that’ll make sipping even more satisfying!

How to Serve Apple Cider Bourbon Smash

Serve this beauty in clear glasses to show off that inviting amber hue. Feel free to add a couple of apple slices and a lovely cinnamon stick for that cozy vibe. The combination of fall flavors wafting through the air is sure to get everyone in that relaxed, happy spirit. Perfect for rainy afternoons or festive gatherings! 🍂

How to Store Apple Cider Bourbon Smash

While this drink is best enjoyed fresh, you can keep it in the fridge for about 24 hours—just remember to hold back on garnishes if you plan to store it. If you’re making a big batch ahead of time, mix everything except the ice and add it just before serving to keep it nice and chilled!

Tips to Make Apple Cider Bourbon Smash

Here are some insider tricks to elevate your cocktail game:

Play with the Bourbon: Use your favorite brand, but don’t be afraid to try something new!
Add a Twist: Want to make it extra spicy? Toss in some sliced ginger for a zing.
Herbs Galore: If you’re feeling adventurous, replace thyme with mint for a fresh twist.
Sweeten It Up: If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a splash of maple syrup before shaking. Who doesn’t love a little sweetness? 😉

Variation

Looking for ways to change it up? You could easily turn this into a vegan delight by simply using maple syrup in place of any sweeteners, but trust me, this drink is already a winner even in its classic version!

FAQs

1. Can I use non-alcoholic cider?
Absolutely! Just swap the bourbon for more apple cider or a splash of soda for a refreshing mocktail.

2. How long does the drink keep in the fridge?
It lasts about 24 hours. For the best taste, it’s best served fresh!

3. Can I make this ahead of time for a party?
Yes! Mix the bourbon and cider together, refrigerate, and serve with fresh ice and garnishes right before guests arrive.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!