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Spiked Apple Cider Cocktail

As seen in: Evening Meals to Gather Around

This spiked apple cider brings together fresh-pressed apple cider, bold ginger beer, and a warming shot of bourbon. Served over crushed ice and finished with creative garnishes like candied ginger or apple slices, it’s a versatile fall cocktail. Easily tweak the flavor by adjusting the spirit or adding spices and sweeteners. It can be made in batches for a crowd or as a single glass. The drink’s balance of sweet, tart, and spicy notes creates a festive beverage ideal for autumn or winter get-togethers. Make it non-alcoholic for the kids by omitting the bourbon.

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A woman named Sophie is smiling and holding a plate of food.
Created By Sophie
Last updated on Sun, 13 Jul 2025 16:46:02 GMT
A glass of yellow liquid with a slice of apple in it. Save Pin
A glass of yellow liquid with a slice of apple in it. | sophietable.com

This spiked apple cider is a fall favorite that is wonderfully crisp and warming, perfect for cozy gatherings or a relaxing evening in. It is the ultimate balance of sweet apple, warm bourbon, and spicy ginger, yet incredibly easy to make with just a few good ingredients.

I whipped up a batch of this on the first chilly weekend of fall and we all huddled around the firepit with big mugs of cider in hand. Every year since then it is a must for any autumn get-together in my house.

Ingredients

  • Apple cider: A fresh pressed cider will have the truest apple flavor. Buy from a local orchard or pick a cloudy unfiltered one with no added sugar for the deepest taste
  • Ginger beer: This brings a spicy kick and fizzy finish. Go for a craft brewed ginger beer with real ginger for best flavor
  • Bourbon: Choose a smoky or caramel rich bourbon. Try to use good quality for a smoother drink
  • Ice: I like using crushed ice because it chills the drink fast and keeps every sip frosty
  • Candied ginger apples fresh rosemary: These garnishes not only look beautiful but enhance the fall flavor. Buy apples that are crisp and fragrant and use fresh rosemary for a burst of aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Apple Cider and Bourbon:
Combine the apple cider and bourbon in a large measuring cup or pitcher. Stir gently so you preserve the aroma and do not bruise the bourbon
Prepare the Glass:
Fill a glass generously with crushed ice. This keeps your drink extra cold and dilutes the drink slowly so you can savor every taste
Pour and Top with Ginger Beer:
Carefully pour the apple cider bourbon mix over the ice. Slowly top with ginger beer allowing it to fizz and blend into the drink
Garnish and Serve:
Add candied ginger cubed apples or a rosemary sprig on top for a festive look and bonus aroma. Serve immediately while the bubbles are lively
A glass of spiked apple cider with a slice of apple on top. Save Pin
A glass of spiked apple cider with a slice of apple on top. | sophietable.com

I always make extra candied ginger pieces because everyone ends up snacking on them. The ginger with apple and rosemary smells remind me of afternoons spent baking pies with my grandmother every fall.

Storage Tips

Spiked apple cider is best served fresh because the ginger beer goes flat quickly. If you need to make it in advance only mix the cider and bourbon then refrigerate. Add ginger beer and ice right before serving for the most refreshing taste. Leftovers will keep in the fridge up to two days though the fizz may be gone

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out bourbon for whiskey dark rum or apple brandy for a new twist. Ginger ale can be used for a milder taste. Honey or maple syrup is a great way to sweeten if your cider is tart. Try a splash of lemon juice for added zip if it is too sweet

Serving Suggestions

Serve this drink at your next fall party Friendsgiving or holiday brunch. Put out bowls of apple slices cinnamon sticks or citrus wheels so guests can customize theirs. For a grownup party try a cinnamon sugar rim on glasses for a fun festive look

A glass of yellow liquid with a slice of apple on top. Save Pin
A glass of yellow liquid with a slice of apple on top. | sophietable.com

Cultural Context

Apple cider is a classic American autumn drink and spiked versions go back generations enjoyed at farm stands and fall festivals. Spiking cider for a cozy grownup treat is a tradition in many homes and the recipes are as varied as the apples on the trees

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Which type of apple cider works best?

Fresh, unfiltered apple cider without added sugars or preservatives gives the fullest, richest flavor. Homemade or locally sourced varieties are excellent choices.

→ Can I swap out the bourbon?

Absolutely! Whiskey, rum, or brandy pair very well with apple cider. You can even experiment with flavored liqueurs such as cinnamon or apple for extra depth.

→ How should I garnish this drink?

Classic garnishes include candied ginger, cubed apples, citrus slices, cinnamon sticks, or fresh herbs like rosemary for aroma and color.

→ Can it be made as a mocktail?

Yes, simply skip the bourbon and enjoy the blend of apple cider and ginger beer for a kid-friendly fall beverage.

→ Is it possible to serve this drink warm?

Yes! Gently heat the apple cider before mixing with bourbon for a comforting hot toddy, adding honey and spices if desired.

→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?

The apple cider and bourbon mixture can be refrigerated for 3–5 days, but add ginger beer just before serving to maintain its fizz.

Spiked Apple Cider Cocktail

Sweet apple cider, zesty ginger beer, and bourbon combine for a cozy, customizable fall drink perfect for cool evenings.

Preparation Time
3 Minutes
Cooking Duration
~
Overall Time
3 Minutes
Created By: Sophie

Recipe Type: Dinner

Skill Level: Simple

Cuisine Type: American

Portion Size: 1 Number of Servings (1 cocktail)

Diet Preferences: Plant-Based (Vegan), Vegetarian-Friendly, Free of Gluten, Dairy-Free

What You'll Need

→ Cocktail Base

01 120 ml apple cider, unfiltered preferred
02 60 ml bourbon or whiskey (substitute with brandy or omit for mocktail)
03 60 ml ginger beer
04 Crushed ice, as needed

→ Garnishes (optional)

05 Cubed fresh apple
06 Candied ginger
07 Sprig fresh rosemary
08 Cinnamon stick
09 Citrus slice

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 01

Combine apple cider and bourbon (or chosen spirit) in a mixing glass or jug. Stir to blend.

Step 02

Fill a highball glass or tumbler with crushed ice.

Step 03

Pour the cider and bourbon mixture over the ice.

Step 04

Gently top with ginger beer, pouring slowly to maintain carbonation.

Step 05

Garnish with desired options, such as a cubed apple, candied ginger, rosemary, cinnamon stick, or citrus slice. Serve immediately.

Helpful Notes

  1. Use fresh-pressed apple cider without added sugars or preservatives for superior taste.
  2. Adjust the alcohol content to preference by starting with a smaller amount of bourbon and increasing as desired without overwhelming the apple flavor.
  3. For added sweetness, a touch of honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup may be blended in.
  4. Spiked apple cider should be made fresh to preserve the effervescence of ginger beer.

Recommended Tools

  • Mixing glass or measuring jug
  • Highball glass or tumbler
  • Bar spoon or stirrer

Allergen Information

Always review ingredients for any allergens and consult a healthcare provider with any concerns.
  • Contains alcohol; not suitable for children, pregnant individuals, or those with alcohol sensitivity.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These details are estimates and shouldn't be considered professional health advice.
  • Calories: 210
  • Fat Content: 0.1 grams
  • Carbohydrate Content: 26 grams
  • Protein Content: 0.2 grams