This cocktail is cozy with a kick.
Think warm apple pie, but with bourbon and a spicy little sparkle from ginger beer.
It’s one of those drinks that feels fancy but takes barely any time to pull together.
Perfect for cool nights, weekends on the porch, or even as a signature drink for fall get-togethers.
I make this one all season long—it’s a total crowd-pleaser.
What You’ll Need
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz cinnamon simple syrup (see Pro Tips to make your own)
- 2 oz fresh apple cider
- 2 oz ginger beer (chilled)
- Ice
- Optional garnish: apple slices, cinnamon stick
Why I Love This Recipe
This drink is fall in a glass. I started making this after a trip to Vermont where every place had some kind of apple bourbon cocktail on the menu. I came home, played around, and this one stuck. It’s bold, warm, and bubbly—my favorite combo.
- It takes 5 minutes. Seriously.
- You don’t need fancy bar tools.
- Cinnamon and apple are made for each other.
- It works for fall, but I make it year-round.
- It’s not too sweet—just right.
Makes: 1 cocktail
Total Time: 5 minutes
Macros (approximate, based on standard ingredients)
Calories: 180
Carbs: 18g
Sugar: 15g
Fat: 0g
Protein: 0g
Alcohol: ~14g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The cinnamon syrup balances the strength of the bourbon with spice and sweetness. Apple cider adds body and natural fruit sugars, which smooth out the edges. Ginger beer not only lifts the flavor with a spicy fizz but brings in carbonation, which enhances aroma and flavor perception. Each ingredient has a purpose, and together they create a balanced, layered cocktail.
Common Mistakes
- Using too much bourbon – It’ll overpower everything else. Stick to 2 oz.
- Flat ginger beer – You need those bubbles! Open it fresh.
- Skipping the syrup – Don’t just sprinkle cinnamon in; syrup is key to texture and flavor.
- Old cider – Use fresh apple cider, not juice. It matters.
What to Serve With
- Sharp cheddar and apple slices
- Spiced nuts or candied pecans
- A rustic cheese board
- Warm brie with honey
- Pork sliders or apple sausage bites
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Mix the bourbon, syrup, and cider in a pitcher. Add ice and ginger beer just before serving.
Can I make it non-alcoholic?
Yep! Use a splash of apple juice + cinnamon syrup + ginger beer over ice.
What bourbon works best?
Something mid-range. Don’t use your top shelf, but make sure it’s smooth. Bulleit, Maker’s Mark, or Woodford work well.
Can I use cinnamon powder instead of syrup?
Nope. It clumps and doesn’t mix well. The syrup makes all the difference.
Pro Tips
- Make your own cinnamon syrup: simmer equal parts sugar and water with 2 cinnamon sticks for 10 minutes.
- Use chilled apple cider and ginger beer so the ice doesn’t water things down too fast.
- A thin apple slice or cinnamon stick makes a pretty and aromatic garnish.
- Use large ice cubes—they melt slower and keep your drink from going flat.
- Shake the cider before using—it settles in the bottle.
Tools Required
- Cocktail glass
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Stirring spoon
- Knife and cutting board (if garnishing)
- Small bowl of ice
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap bourbon with spiced rum or rye whiskey
- Try pear cider instead of apple for a twist
- Add a dash of orange bitters for more depth
- Use maple syrup + pinch of cinnamon if you don’t have syrup
- Make it a punch: multiply everything by 8 and serve in a pitcher
Make Ahead Tips
- Combine bourbon, cinnamon syrup, and apple cider in a pitcher up to a day ahead
- Add ginger beer and ice just before serving to keep the fizz
How to Make a Spicy Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash
Step 1: Add 2 oz bourbon to a cocktail glass
Step 2: Add 1 oz cinnamon simple syrup
Step 3: Pour in 2 oz apple cider
Step 4: Add ice to the glass
Step 5: Top with 2 oz chilled ginger beer
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Leftovers & Storage
This cocktail is best fresh. If you do prep ahead, keep the base (bourbon + syrup + cider) in the fridge for up to 2 days. Don’t add ice or ginger beer until ready to drink. Once mixed, drink it within a few hours.
Wrap-Up
This drink is the definition of cozy and bold in one glass. It’s fast, fun, and seriously tastes like fall. If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out—leave a comment and let me know what you think or if you tried any fun twists!
