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Apple Cider Bourbon Smash

Apple Cider Bourbon Smash - featured image
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This Apple Cider Bourbon Smash is a quick and easy fall whiskey cocktail that combines fresh apple cider, bourbon, lemon, and ginger beer for a cozy, crowd-pleasing drink. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, festive gatherings, or whenever you want a taste of autumn in a glass.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon whiskey
  • 2 oz (60 ml) fresh apple cider
  • 1 oz (30 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) pure maple syrup (optional, to taste)
  • 2–3 slices fresh ginger (optional, for muddling)
  • 2–3 oz (60–90 ml) cold ginger beer
  • Ice (crushed or cubes)
  • Garnishes: apple slices, cinnamon sticks, lemon wheels, rosemary sprig (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice a lemon in half and juice it (about 1 oz per cocktail). Prepare garnishes such as apple slices, cinnamon sticks, or lemon wheels.
  2. If using, place 2-3 slices of fresh ginger at the bottom of your cocktail shaker or mason jar. Muddle gently to release flavor.
  3. Add bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, and maple syrup (if using) to the shaker.
  4. Fill the shaker with ice (about halfway).
  5. Secure the lid and shake for 15-20 seconds until the shaker feels cold.
  6. Fill a rocks glass with crushed ice. Strain the cocktail into the glass, leaving ginger bits behind.
  7. Top with 2-3 oz cold ginger beer. Stir gently to combine.
  8. Garnish with apple slice, cinnamon stick, lemon wheel, or rosemary sprig as desired.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for the best flavor. Adjust sweetness with maple syrup and tartness with extra lemon juice. For a non-alcoholic version, omit bourbon and add more cider with a splash of seltzer. Always add ginger beer last to preserve fizz. Chill glasses before serving for extra refreshment.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider bourbon smash, fall cocktail, whiskey cocktail, bourbon, apple cider, ginger beer, easy cocktail, autumn drink, Thanksgiving cocktail, holiday cocktail

Find it online: https://lemonydrinks.com/apple-cider-bourbon-smash-recipe-easy-fall-whiskey-cocktail/