As the air turns crisp and Thanksgiving tables fill with the comforting scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, and fresh herbs, this Spiced Orchard Cider Cocktail offers the perfect sip of the season. Crafted with sparkling hard apple cider, a splash of bourbon for warmth, and a kiss of maple syrup, it’s a celebration of fall in a glass. The cinnamon-sugar rim, rosemary sprig, and fresh apple slice garnish elevate this cocktail into something both rustic and refined—an impressive yet easy addition to your holiday gathering.
Ingredients (Serves 1)
- 4 oz hard apple cider (chilled)
- 1 oz bourbon or apple brandy
- ½ oz maple syrup (or honey)
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- Dash of ground cinnamon
- Dash of ground nutmeg
For the rim:
- 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
Garnish:
- Fresh apple slice
- Rosemary sprig
Instructions
- Prepare the Rim:
Mix sugar and cinnamon on a small plate. Run a lemon wedge around the rim of a rocks or stemmed cocktail glass, then dip into the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a festive sparkle. - Mix the Cocktail:
In a cocktail shaker with ice, combine bourbon (or apple brandy), maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Shake well until chilled. - Build the Drink:
Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with ice. Top with chilled hard apple cider, gently stirring to combine. - Garnish & Serve:
Slide a thin apple slice inside the glass for a pretty presentation, and tuck in a rosemary sprig for a fragrant finish.
Pro Tip:
For an extra touch of drama, lightly torch the rosemary sprig for a second or two before adding it to the drink—the subtle smoky aroma will complement the cider’s crispness beautifully.