There’s nothing like wrapping your hands around a cozy cocktail as the leaves start to turn, and my Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash with Maple Syrup is my absolute favorite fall sipper. I first made this drink during an impromptu gathering last October the moment that warm bourbon met crisp apple and maple syrup, my friends declared it an instant classic. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with just enough kick to keep things interesting. Trust me, one sip of this autumnal beauty and you’ll be hooked!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash
This cocktail isn’t just delicious – it’s downright addictive! Here’s why it’s become my go-to drink all autumn long:
- 5-minute magic: From fridge to first sip in no time – perfect for last-minute guests or when you just need a cozy drink NOW
- Perfectly balanced: The bourbon warmth dances with crisp apple, sweet maple, and that cinnamon kick – no single flavor overpowers
- Totally customizable: Like it sweeter? Add more maple syrup. Want more spice? Extra cinnamon! It’s your drink, make it your way
- Seasonal star: That gorgeous amber color and spiced aroma scream fall – it’s basically a cozy sweater in a glass
Seriously, one sip and you’ll understand why I make this weekly once September hits!
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Let me let you in on a few cocktail-making secrets! Fresh apple cider absolutely makes this drink the pasteurized stuff from the grocery aisle just doesn’t have that bright, tangy punch. If you’re in a pinch, honey works instead of maple syrup (use 3/4 oz since it’s sweeter), but you’ll miss that deep caramel note. For bourbon, skip the bottom shelf Woodford Reserve or Bulleit have the smooth caramel notes that shine here. And please I beg you use real maple syrup, not that pancake stuff in the bear-shaped bottle!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash with Maple Syrup
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cozy cocktail sing:
- 2 oz bourbon (I prefer something mid-shelf like Bulleit or Woodford Reserve)
- 1 oz apple cider – fresh pressed makes all the difference!
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice – squeeze it right before mixing
- 1/2 oz pure maple syrup – the real stuff, not pancake syrup
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon – or more if you’re feeling adventurous
- 1/4 cup diced apple – tiny cubes about the size of your pinky nail
- Ice cubes – lots of ’em!
- Apple slice & cinnamon stick – for that Instagram-worthy garnish
Pro tip: Measure everything before you start shaking – it makes the process so much smoother when you’re in cocktail-making mode!
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash with Maple Syrup
Now for the fun part – let’s turn these ingredients into your new favorite cocktail! I’ve made this drink so many times I could do it in my sleep, but don’t worry – I’ll walk you through each step so yours turns out perfect on the first try.
First, grab your cocktail shaker (or a sturdy mason jar in a pinch) and toss in those pretty little apple cubes. Add the maple syrup and cinnamon right on top. Here’s where the magic starts – take your muddler and press down firmly a few times. You want to really work those apples to release their juice and blend with the syrup, but don’t go wild – we’re not making applesauce here! Just 5-6 good presses should do it.
Next comes the liquid gold – pour in your bourbon, apple cider, and fresh lemon juice. I like to give it a quick stir with a spoon at this point to combine everything. Now fill that shaker about halfway with ice – you want enough to chill the drink but still leave room for shaking. Secure the lid tight (trust me, you don’t want an explosion!) and shake like you mean it for a solid 10-15 seconds. Listen for that satisfying sloshing sound – that’s how you know it’s working!
While your arms recover, grab a rocks glass and fill it to the brim with fresh ice cubes. Strain your beautiful creation over the ice, using the shaker’s built-in strainer or a fine mesh sieve if you’re fancy. The final touch? That gorgeous apple slice and cinnamon stick garnish perched on the rim. Take a moment to admire your handiwork before the first heavenly sip!
Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash
After making this cocktail more times than I can count, I’ve picked up some tricks that take it from good to “wow!” First, chill your glass for 10 minutes beforehand – that first cold sip is everything. Use tart apples like Granny Smith – their bright flavor cuts through the bourbon beautifully. And don’t be shy with the cinnamon! Start with 1/4 tsp, then add a pinch more if you want extra warmth. Trust me, these little touches make all the difference.
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash
This cocktail shines alongside simple appetizers – think sharp cheddar on a rustic cheese board or warm spiced pecans. Feeling fancy? Swap the cinnamon stick for a star anise garnish – it looks stunning and adds a subtle licorice note that plays beautifully with the apple and maple flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Here’s the best part – no storage needed! This cocktail tastes best enjoyed immediately after shaking. Those fresh apple bits and bubbly cider lose their magic if left sitting, so mix it up fresh each time you’re craving that perfect cinnamon-apple-bourbon harmony.
Nutrition Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown for my Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash (because yes, even cocktails count!):
- Calories: 180 per serving
- Sugar: 12g (mostly from the maple syrup and apple)
- Carbs: 18g
Remember: These are estimates only – actual values will vary depending on your specific ingredients. The maple syrup and apple cider contribute most of the carbs, while the bourbon keeps this surprisingly light for such a flavorful drink!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to all those burning questions about my Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash:
- Can I use apple juice instead of cider? Absolutely, but you’ll lose some of that tangy depth – cider’s fermentation adds amazing flavor complexity!
- What if I don’t have bourbon? A good rye whiskey works in a pinch (try it with 1.5 oz whiskey + 0.5 oz brandy for extra apple notes).
- Can I prep this ahead? Mix it fresh – those shaken ingredients lose their magic if they sit too long. Though I won’t judge if you pre-dice apples!
- Too strong? Add 1 oz club soda to lighten it up – the bubbles make it extra refreshing.
There you have it – everything you need to know to make this drink your new fall staple! For more delicious recipes and inspiration, check out our Pinterest page.
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5-Star Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash That’s Dangerously Good
- Total Time: 5 mins
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A refreshing cocktail combining the warmth of bourbon with sweet cinnamon, crisp apple, and a hint of maple syrup.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz apple cider
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup diced apple
- Ice cubes
- Apple slice and cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions
- In a shaker, muddle the diced apple with maple syrup and cinnamon.
- Add bourbon, apple cider, and lemon juice with ice.
- Shake well for 10-15 seconds.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with an apple slice and cinnamon stick.
Notes
- Use fresh apple cider for best flavor.
- Adjust maple syrup to taste if you prefer sweeter or less sweet.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, add a pinch more ground cinnamon.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: American
