Apple cider cocktails bring warmth and comfort to chilly autumn evenings.

These drinks blend the sweet tang of apple cider with various spirits and spices. They’re perfect for sipping by the fire or enjoying at fall gatherings.

You can make many tasty apple cider cocktails at home with just a few ingredients. Some recipes use bourbon or vodka, while others include sparkling wine or ginger beer.

Many add cinnamon, nutmeg, or other fall spices for extra flavor. With so many options, you’re sure to find an apple cider cocktail you love.

1. Classic Apple Cider Mule

The Apple Cider Mule puts a fall twist on the traditional Moscow Mule. This drink mixes vodka, apple cider, and ginger beer for a perfect autumn cocktail.

To make it, you’ll need vodka, fresh apple cider, and ginger beer. Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra zing.

Pour the ingredients over ice in a copper mug or glass. Stir gently to combine the flavors.

For garnish, try an apple slice or cinnamon stick. This cocktail is easy to make and great for parties or cozy nights in.

You can adjust the ratios to suit your taste. More cider makes it sweeter, while extra ginger beer adds spice.

2. Spiced Ginger Apple Cider Punch

This festive drink combines the warmth of apple cider with the zesty kick of ginger. You’ll love how the spices blend with the sweet and tangy flavors.

To make this punch, mix apple cider, ginger ale, and a splash of pineapple juice in a large bowl.

Add some cinnamon sticks, star anise, and sliced apples for extra flavor and visual appeal. For a grown-up version, you can spike it with spiced rum or whiskey.

Start with 1 cup of alcohol and adjust to taste. This punch is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.

Serve it chilled over ice for a refreshing treat. You can garnish each glass with a cinnamon stick or apple slice for a fancy touch.

3. Rosemary Bourbon Apple Cider

This fall-inspired cocktail combines the warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of apple cider and the earthiness of rosemary.

To make it, you’ll need bourbon, apple cider, and rosemary simple syrup. Start by making the rosemary syrup.

Mix equal parts water and sugar in a pan, add rosemary sprigs, and simmer until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before using.

In a shaker, combine 2 ounces of bourbon, 1 ounce of apple cider, and 1/2 ounce of rosemary syrup. Shake with ice and strain into a glass.

Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig and apple slice. This drink is perfect for cozy autumn evenings or festive gatherings.

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less syrup to suit your taste.

4. Maple Cinnamon Apple Cider

This cozy cocktail blends the sweetness of maple with the warmth of cinnamon and apple cider. You’ll need apple cider, maple syrup, cinnamon whiskey, and a cinnamon stick for garnish.

Mix the apple cider and maple syrup in a mug. Heat it in the microwave or on the stove until warm. Stir in the cinnamon whiskey.

Garnish with a cinnamon stick and enjoy. The maple adds depth to the apple flavor, while the cinnamon whiskey brings a spicy kick. It’s perfect for chilly evenings.

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup to suit your taste. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the whiskey and add a splash of vanilla extract instead.

5. Caramel Apple Sangria

Caramel Apple Sangria is a sweet fall cocktail that combines white wine, caramel vodka, and apple cider. It’s perfect for autumn gatherings and parties.

To make this drink, mix white wine with caramel vodka and apple cider in a pitcher. Add chopped apples for extra flavor and texture.

For a festive touch, rim your glasses with caramel syrup before pouring. You can also add a splash of sparkling cider for some fizz.

This sangria is easy to customize. Try using different apple varieties or adding cinnamon sticks for more spice. You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to blend before serving.

6. Spiked Apple Cider Float

This fall treat combines the best of both worlds – a warm drink and a cool dessert. To make a spiked apple cider float, start with hot apple cider in a mug.

Add a shot of your favorite liquor, like bourbon or spiced rum. Top it off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Sprinkle some cinnamon on top for extra flavor. The ice cream will slowly melt into the cider, creating a creamy and delicious drink.

This cocktail is perfect for chilly autumn evenings. You can customize it by using different ice cream flavors or adding caramel sauce.

7. Apple Cider Margarita

This fall twist on a classic cocktail combines tequila with apple cider for a seasonal treat. To make it, mix tequila, apple cider, lime juice, and triple sec in a shaker with ice.

For extra flair, rim your glass with cinnamon sugar. Dip the edge in maple syrup, then roll it in a mixture of turbinado sugar and apple pie spice.

Shake the drink ingredients well and strain into your prepared glass over fresh ice. Garnish with an apple slice or cinnamon stick if you like.

This cozy cocktail balances the bite of tequila with the sweetness of apple cider. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or holiday parties.

8. Hot Toddied Cider

This cozy drink combines the best of apple cider and hot toddy traditions. You’ll love its comforting warmth on chilly evenings.

To make it, heat apple cider in a mug. Add a shot of whiskey or bourbon for a kick. Stir in a spoonful of honey for sweetness.

Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. A cinnamon stick and a few cloves add aromatic spice.

Garnish with a lemon wheel and enjoy. This hot toddied cider is perfect for sipping by the fire or sharing with friends on crisp autumn nights.

9. Apple Cranberry Mimosa

This festive drink combines the best of fall flavors. You’ll love the mix of apple cider and cranberry juice topped with bubbly champagne.

To make it, pour equal parts apple cider and cranberry juice into a champagne flute. Top it off with your favorite sparkling wine.

For extra flair, rim the glass with cinnamon sugar. Just rub the rim with honey and dip it in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.

You can garnish with fresh cranberries or apple slices. For a stronger drink, add a splash of vodka. This mimosa is perfect for brunches or holiday parties.

10. Mulled wine with Apple Cider

Mulled wine with apple cider brings warmth and cheer to cold evenings. This cozy cocktail blends red wine and apple cider with spices for a festive drink.

To make it, mix red wine and apple cider in a pot. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, and fresh ginger.

Heat the mixture gently, allowing the flavors to meld. You can sweeten it with a touch of maple syrup or honey if desired.

Let it simmer for about 30 minutes to bring out the spice flavors. Serve the mulled wine hot in mugs.

Garnish with apple slices or cinnamon sticks for a pretty presentation. This drink is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home.

11. Apple Cider Mojito

This fall twist on a classic Cuban cocktail blends the flavors of apple and mint. You’ll need white rum, apple cider, lime juice, fresh mint leaves, and club soda.

Start by muddling mint leaves with lime juice in a glass. Add rum and apple cider, then stir well.

Fill the glass with ice and top it off with a splash of club soda. For extra flavor, try adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg.

You can also rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for a sweet touch. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, simply leave out the rum.

Replace it with more apple cider or flavored sparkling water for a tasty mocktail.

12. Apple Cider Gin Fizz

This cocktail blends the crisp flavors of apple cider and gin. To make it, you’ll need gin, apple cider, lemon juice, and an egg white.

Shake these ingredients vigorously without ice to create a frothy texture. Then add ice and shake again.

Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice. Top off your drink with a splash of club soda for extra fizz.

Sprinkle some cinnamon on top as a garnish. The result is a refreshing and seasonally-appropriate cocktail.

This drink combines the tartness of lemon, the sweetness of apple, and the botanical notes of gin. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.

13. Apple Cider Prosecco Punch

Apple Cider Prosecco Punch is a festive cocktail perfect for fall gatherings. You’ll love how easy it is to make.

Mix apple cider, vodka, and ginger beer in a large bowl. Add Prosecco just before serving to keep it bubbly.

Toss in some apple wedges, orange slices, and cinnamon sticks for extra flavor. These ingredients also make the punch look beautiful.

Chill the mixture for a couple of hours before your guests arrive. This lets the flavors blend together nicely.

Rim your glasses with a mix of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet touch. Pour the punch over ice and enjoy!

14. Vanilla Bourbon Apple Cider

This cozy cocktail blends the warmth of vanilla bourbon with the crisp taste of apple cider. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or fall gatherings.

To make it, mix 2 ounces of vanilla-infused bourbon with 4 ounces of fresh apple cider. You can buy vanilla bourbon or make your own by steeping a vanilla bean in regular bourbon for a few days.

Add a cinnamon stick and star anise for extra flavor. Stir well and serve over ice.

For a finishing touch, garnish with a thin apple slice or cinnamon stick. This drink offers a balance of sweet and spicy notes.

The vanilla softens the bourbon’s bite, while the apple cider adds a refreshing twist.

15. Sparkling Apple Cider Sangria

Sparkling Apple Cider Sangria is a festive fall cocktail that’s perfect for parties. You’ll love this refreshing drink that combines apple cider, white wine, and sparkling wine.

To make it, mix apple cider with your favorite white wine. Add sliced apples, oranges, and lemons for extra flavor and color.

Chill the mixture for a few hours to let the flavors blend. Just before serving, pour in some chilled sparkling wine or champagne.

This adds a fun bubbly twist to the traditional sangria. Serve it in glasses over ice for a crisp, cool drink.

You can customize this sangria with your favorite fruits or spices. Try adding cinnamon sticks or star anise for a hint of warmth.

16. Whiskey Apple Cider Slushie

A Whiskey Apple Cider Slushie is a refreshing twist on a classic fall drink. You can make this frosty cocktail at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by freezing apple cider in ice cube trays. This takes about 4 hours.

Once frozen, blend the cubes with bourbon whiskey and a splash of orange juice. The result is a smooth, icy treat that combines the crisp sweetness of apple cider with the rich flavor of whiskey.

It’s perfect for sipping on a cool autumn evening or serving at a party. You can garnish your slushie with a slice of apple or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair.

17. Cider House Cocktail

The Cider House Cocktail is a delightful blend of fall flavors. You’ll love this warm and comforting drink on chilly evenings.

To make it, mix apple cider with your favorite bourbon or whiskey. Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness and a dash of cinnamon for spice.

Garnish your cocktail with a cinnamon stick and an apple slice. The cinnamon stick doubles as a stirrer and infuses more flavor as you sip.

This cocktail is perfect for sipping by the fireplace or enjoying at autumn gatherings. It’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests with its cozy flavors.

18. Frozen Apple Cider Bellini

This icy twist on the classic Bellini swaps peach puree for apple cider. It’s perfect for hot fall days when you want a refreshing drink with autumn flavors.

To make it, blend apple cider with ice until slushy. Pour the frozen cider into champagne flutes.

Top with chilled Prosecco or sparkling wine. For extra flavor, add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg before blending.

Garnish with a thin apple slice or cinnamon stick. This frosty cocktail is easy to make and sure to impress your guests.

19. Rum Apple Cider Martini

This cocktail blends the warm flavors of rum and apple cider in a sophisticated martini glass. You’ll need spiced rum, apple cider, and a splash of lemon juice.

Shake the ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. For extra flair, rim the glass with cinnamon sugar before pouring.

Garnish with a thin apple slice or cinnamon stick. The rum adds depth to the cider’s sweetness, while the lemon brightens the drink.

This martini is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in. It’s a tasty way to enjoy apple cider with a grown-up twist.

20. Elderflower Apple Cider Spritz

This refreshing cocktail blends the crisp taste of apple cider with the floral notes of elderflower. You’ll need apple cider, elderflower liqueur, and sparkling water.

Mix 2 ounces of apple cider with 1 ounce of elderflower liqueur in a glass filled with ice. Top it off with 3 ounces of sparkling water for a fizzy finish.

Stir gently to combine the flavors. Garnish with a thin apple slice or a sprig of fresh mint for a festive touch.

This light and bubbly drink is perfect for fall gatherings or as a relaxing evening sipper.

You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of apple cider or elderflower liqueur to suit your taste.

21. Blackberry Sage Cider

This cocktail blends the flavors of autumn with a berry twist. You’ll need apple cider, blackberries, fresh sage, and bourbon.

Muddle blackberries and sage in a shaker. Add apple cider and bourbon, then fill with ice.

Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. For extra flavor, try making a blackberry sage shrub.

Mix mashed blackberries, sage leaves, and sugar. Let it sit for two days, stirring daily.

Add apple cider vinegar and let it sit two more days before straining.

Use this shrub to give your cider cocktail a tangy kick. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste.

22. Pumpkin Apple Cider Shandy

This fall-inspired cocktail combines the best flavors of the season. You’ll mix pumpkin beer with apple cider for a refreshing and festive drink.

The pumpkin beer adds a subtle spice, while the apple cider brings sweetness and tartness. This blend creates a balanced and easy-to-drink beverage.

For an extra kick, you can add a splash of bourbon. This optional addition gives the shandy more depth and warmth.

The Pumpkin Apple Cider Shandy is perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy nights at home. It’s simple to make and sure to please your taste buds with its seasonal flavors.

23. Apple Cider Screwdriver

The Apple Cider Screwdriver is a tasty twist on the classic cocktail. It combines vodka and apple cider for a perfect fall drink.

To make it, mix equal parts vodka and apple cider in a glass filled with ice. Stir well to combine the flavors.

For extra flavor, add a splash of orange juice. This brings a citrusy note that complements the apple taste.

Garnish your drink with an apple slice or cinnamon stick. These add a nice visual touch and enhance the aroma.

This cocktail is easy to make and great for parties. You can adjust the ratio of vodka to cider based on your preference.

24. Lemon Basil Apple Cider Cooler

This refreshing cocktail combines the crisp taste of apple cider with zesty lemon and aromatic basil. To make it, you’ll need apple cider, fresh lemon juice, and basil leaves.

Muddle a few basil leaves in a shaker. Add ice, apple cider, and lemon juice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice.

Garnish your drink with a lemon wheel and a sprig of fresh basil. The result is a cool and invigorating beverage perfect for warm days.

You can adjust the sweetness by adding a splash of simple syrup if desired.

For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit any spirits.

25. Pomegranate Apple Cider Sparkler

This festive drink combines the best of fall and winter flavors. You’ll love the mix of tart pomegranate and sweet apple cider.

To make it, pour equal parts pomegranate juice and apple cider into a glass. Add a splash of sparkling water for some fizz.

Garnish with pomegranate seeds and apple slices. For extra flair, rim the glass with sugar.

This mocktail is perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights in. It’s refreshing, alcohol-free, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

26. Apple Cider and Tequila Smash

This unique cocktail combines the crisp taste of apple cider with the bold flavor of tequila. To make it, mix 2 ounces of tequila with 4 ounces of apple cider in a shaker with ice.

Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice.

Garnish with a thin apple slice and a cinnamon stick for extra flair.

For a special touch, rim your glass with cinnamon sugar. This adds a sweet, spicy element that complements the drink perfectly. Enjoy this refreshing twist on a classic apple cider cocktail.

The Basics of Apple Cider Cocktails

Apple cider cocktails blend the crisp, fruity taste of cider with various spirits and mixers. These drinks offer a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, ideal for fall and winter sipping.

Understanding Apple Cider

Apple cider is the star of these cocktails. It’s made by pressing fresh apples to extract their juice. The result is a sweet, tangy drink with a rich apple flavor.

You can use both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cider in cocktails. Hard cider adds an extra kick, while regular cider works well with added spirits.

For the best taste, pick fresh, high-quality cider. Avoid overly sweet or artificial versions.

You can warm cider for cozy drinks or use it chilled in refreshing mixes.

Popular Cocktail Variations

Apple cider mixes well with many spirits. Vodka and rum are common choices, creating simple yet tasty drinks.

Whiskey and bourbon pair nicely too, adding depth to the cider’s sweetness. Spiced rum brings extra warmth to fall-themed cocktails.

For added flavor, try mixing in:

• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Ginger
• Maple syrup

You can also blend cider with other juices or sodas. Orange juice adds a citrus twist, while ginger beer creates a spicy kick.

Some popular apple cider cocktails include:

• Spiked Cider (cider + rum)
• Apple Cider Margaritas
• Cider Mules (cider + vodka + ginger beer)

Pairing Apple Cider Cocktails With Food

Apple cider cocktails go well with many foods. The right pairings can make your drinks and snacks taste even better.

Ideal Snacks and Appetizers

Cheese plates are great with apple cider cocktails. Try sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy goat cheese. Add some crackers and sliced apples for a perfect match.

Savory appetizers also work well. Bacon-wrapped dates or figs complement the sweet drink flavors. Mini quiches or tarts with caramelized onions are tasty choices too.

For a lighter option, serve a fall salad. Mix greens with roasted butternut squash, candied pecans, and dried cranberries. The sweet and tart combo pairs nicely with cider drinks.

Spiced nuts are easy to make and very popular. Toss almonds or walnuts with cinnamon, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bake until golden for a crunchy snack.

Dessert Pairings

Apple pie is a classic dessert to serve with cider cocktails. The warm spices in both the pie and drink create a cozy feeling.

Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Pumpkin treats also pair well. Try pumpkin bread, muffins, or cheesecake. The creamy texture balances the crisp drink.

Caramel desserts are another good match. Caramel apples, flan, or salted caramel brownies all taste great. The rich sweetness goes well with the tart cider.

For a lighter option, make baked pears. Sprinkle them with cinnamon and brown sugar before baking.

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream.