There’s something magical about that first crisp autumn evening when you crave a drink that warms you from the inside out. My Autumn Spice Old Fashioned with Apple and Cinnamon became an instant favorite when I accidentally created it during an impromptu Friendsgiving years ago—I’d run out of simple syrup but had homemade cinnamon syrup and fresh apple cider sitting right there. The result? A gorgeous marriage of cozy spices and tart apple that perfectly complements bourbon’s richness. Now it’s my go-to when leaves start turning and sweaters come out the way the cinnamon stick swirls through the amber liquid while that thin apple slice bobs merrily just makes me happy. Trust me, once you try this autumnal twist on the classic Old Fashioned, you’ll understand why my friends start requesting it as soon as pumpkin spice hits the shelves!
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Autumn Spice Old Fashioned with Apple and Cinnamon
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this cozy cocktail – and trust me, quality ingredients make all the difference:
- 2 oz bourbon (your favorite mid-shelf brand works perfectly)
- 1/2 oz apple cider (fresh, unfiltered gives the best flavor)
- 1/4 oz cinnamon syrup (homemade or store-bought – adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 dashes aromatic bitters
- 1 cinnamon stick and 1 thin apple slice for garnish
Optional but recommended: Pop your glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before mixing – that extra chill takes it to the next level!
How to Make Autumn Spice Old Fashioned with Apple and Cinnamon
This drink comes together in minutes, but a few key techniques make it truly special. I’ve made this hundreds of times—here’s exactly how I do it:
Step 1: Prepare Your Mixing Glass
Grab your favorite mixing glass (or any sturdy glass jar in a pinch) and fill it to the brim with ice. Not just a few cubes—pack it! You want everything to get properly chilled without getting watered down.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Pour in your bourbon first—I like to hear that satisfying glug sound. Add the apple cider, cinnamon syrup, and bitters next. Now grab your long spoon and stir like you mean it! Thirty seconds is the magic number here—you’ll feel the mixture get frosty against the glass.
Step 3: Strain and Serve
Hold your strainer over that chilled rocks glass with its big ice cube (so much better than small cubes, trust me). Pour slowly to avoid splashes. Now the fun part—nestle that cinnamon stick against the glass and let the apple slice float proudly on top. The first sip? Absolute autumn magic.
Why You’ll Love This Autumn Spice Old Fashioned
Oh, where do I even start? Here’s why this drink has become my autumn obsession:
- Cozy in a glass – That apple-cinnamon-bourbon combo? It’s like wearing your favorite sweater as a cocktail
- Five minutes flat – Faster than raking leaves, yet feels fancy enough for holiday parties
- Total crowd-pleaser – The cinnamon stick swirl and apple garnish make it look like you spent hours
- Make it yours – Love extra spice? Add more syrup. Prefer it tart? Go heavy on the cider. It’s forgiving!
Seriously, once you taste that first sip, you’ll understand why I make batches all season long. For more seasonal treats, check out our Apple Snickerdoodles!
Pro Tips for the Best Autumn Spice Old Fashioned
After making this cocktail more times than I can count, here are my foolproof tricks for perfection:
- Seek out fresh cider – The murky, unfiltered kind from farmers’ markets adds incredible depth
- Syrup’s your spice dial – Start with 1/4 oz cinnamon syrup, then adjust up next time if you want more warmth
- Glass chill is key – That 10-minute freezer stint keeps your drink colder longer without over-diluting
- Whole spices shine – Rub the cinnamon stick between your palms before garnishing to release extra aroma
Little touches make all the difference between good and “wow!”
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, play around with these fun twists:
- Smoked cinnamon stick – Lightly torch it before garnishing for a campfire-worthy aroma
- Maple magic – Swap half the cinnamon syrup with real maple syrup for deeper autumn vibes
- Orange boost – Add a strip of orange peel with the bitters for bright citrus notes
My fall cocktail experiments prove this recipe loves creative tweaks! You might also enjoy our Classic Apple Crumble Bars.
Serving Suggestions
This Autumn Spice Old Fashioned shines brightest with simple pairings—I love serving it alongside sharp cheddar on a wooden board with spiced nuts. But honestly? Sometimes curling up by the fire with just this warm-spiced beauty in hand is perfection.
FAQ About Autumn Spice Old Fashioned with Apple and Cinnamon
Can I use apple juice instead of cider?
Yes, but cider’s deeper flavor works best. If using juice, reduce the syrup slightly to balance sweetness.
How should I store cinnamon syrup?
Keep it in a sealed bottle in the fridge for up to 2 weeks—it won’t last that long though!
What bourbon works best?
Mid-range bourbons shine here—Buffalo Trace or Four Roses add perfect warmth without overpowering the spices.
Can I make this alcohol-free?
Absolutely! Swap bourbon for extra cider and a dash of vanilla extract still deliciously cozy.
Why stir instead of shake?
Stirring keeps the texture silky, while shaking would make it cloudy. We want that beautiful clear amber glow!
Nutritional Information
Estimates vary based on ingredients, but this Autumn Spice Old Fashioned has about 220 calories and 8g sugar per serving. The cinnamon and apple give natural sweetness while keeping refined sugars minimal a treat worth savoring!
Share Your Twist
Made this autumn stunner? I’d love to see your personal twists on this seasonal favorite! You can find more inspiration on our Pinterest page.
Irresistible 2-Ingredient Autumn Spice Old Fashioned Bliss
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A warm and cozy twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, infused with autumn flavors of apple, cinnamon, and spice.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz apple cider
- 1/4 oz cinnamon syrup
- 2 dashes aromatic bitters
- 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish)
- 1 thin apple slice (for garnish)
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add bourbon, apple cider, cinnamon syrup, and bitters.
- Stir well for about 30 seconds until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slice.
Notes
- Use fresh apple cider for best flavor.
- Adjust cinnamon syrup to taste.
- Chill your glass beforehand for extra cold serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Cocktails
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: American
