This cocktail tastes like fall in a glass—warm spices, crisp apple flavor, and a smooth little kick from vodka.
It’s cozy, a little fancy, and super easy to make at home.
I love serving this when friends come over because it feels special but doesn’t take much effort.
Why I Love This Recipe
I still remember the first time I had a spiced cider cocktail on a chilly night—it felt like sipping autumn. This recipe is now my go-to for cozy evenings and festive gatherings.
- It’s festive without being complicated
- You can prep the spiced cider ahead of time
- It looks gorgeous in the glass
- Perfect balance of sweet, tart, and boozy warmth
Servings and Time
- Servings: 2 cocktails
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups apple cider
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3 whole cloves
- 2 star anise
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 3 oz vodka
- 1 oz orange liqueur (like Cointreau)
- Ice cubes
- 2 apple slices (for garnish)
- Cinnamon sugar (for rimming the glass)
Pro Tips
- Warm the cider slowly so the spices infuse without boiling.
- Chill your martini glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before pouring.
- Rub a lemon wedge around the rim before dipping in cinnamon sugar for a perfect rim.
- Use fresh apple cider, not juice, for best flavor.
- Shake hard with ice to get that frosty martini look.
Tools Needed
- Small saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Martini glasses
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap vodka for spiced rum or bourbon for a richer drink.
- Try pear cider instead of apple cider.
- Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
- Skip the orange liqueur if you want it less citrusy.
Make Ahead Tips
You can make the spiced cider up to 3 days ahead. Just keep it in the fridge and shake with vodka and ice when ready to serve.
Instructions
Step 1: Warm the Cider with Spices
In a small saucepan, add 2 cups apple cider, 2 cinnamon sticks, 3 whole cloves, 2 star anise, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Heat gently over medium-low for 10 minutes until warm and fragrant. Do not boil.
Step 2: Strain the Cider
Remove the saucepan from heat. Strain the cider into a heatproof measuring cup to remove the whole spices. Let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Rim the Glasses
Dip the rim of 2 martini glasses into a little water or lemon juice, then dip into the cinnamon sugar.
Step 4: Shake the Cocktail
In a cocktail shaker, add ice cubes, 3 oz vodka, 1 oz orange liqueur, and 4 oz of the spiced cider. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
Step 5: Strain and Serve
Strain the cocktail into the prepared martini glasses. Garnish each with a thin apple slice and a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately.
Leftovers and Storage
This drink is best fresh. If you have leftover spiced cider, store it in the fridge up to 3 days and re-shake when ready. Don’t store mixed martinis—those lose their freshness.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Warming the cider releases the natural apple aroma and helps the spices infuse.
- Shaking with ice chills the drink quickly and adds tiny air bubbles for a frothy finish.
- The sugar rim balances the tartness of cider and the strength of vodka.
Common Mistakes
- Boiling the cider makes it bitter—keep it gentle.
- Forgetting to strain the spices leaves the drink gritty.
- Not shaking enough leaves the cocktail flat and warm.
- Overfilling the glass can spill the sugar rim.
What to Serve With
- A cheese board with sharp cheddar or gouda
- Warm spiced nuts
- Savory puff pastry bites
- Roasted butternut squash soup as a cozy pairing
FAQ
Can I make this non-alcoholic?
Yes! Skip the vodka and orange liqueur—just enjoy the spiced cider as-is.
Can I serve this warm instead of chilled?
Absolutely. Skip the shaker and serve the cider hot in mugs.
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes. Make a big batch of spiced cider, keep it warm, and let guests add vodka and liqueur to their glass.
What vodka works best?
Any smooth vodka will do, but a vanilla or apple-flavored vodka makes it extra festive.
Conclusion
This Spiced Apple Cider Martini is the perfect mix of cozy and classy. It’s simple to make, looks beautiful, and brings all the fall vibes in one sip. Give it a try and let me know how it turned out for you—I’d love to hear your twists or favorite pairings!
