Apple Bourbon Smash

The Apple Bourbon Smash is a delightful cocktail that captures the essence of autumn with its warm, spiced flavors and crisp apple.

What is Apple Bourbon Smash?

This smash recipe combines smooth bourbon, fresh apple cider, and a splash of citrus. It offers a balanced blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky notes. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening by the fireplace or hosting a festive fall gathering, this cocktail is sure to impress.

Ingredients For Apple Bourbon Smash

To make this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Bourbon: Choose a good-quality bourbon that complements the drink’s sweetness and spice.

Apple cider: Adds natural sweetness and a hint of tart apple flavor.

Fresh Lemon juice: Balances the sweetness with a touch of citrus.

Maple syrup or simple syrup: Enhances the warm, autumnal profile.

Fresh rosemary: Adds a refreshing herbal note.

Angostura bitters: Optional but adds depth and complexity.

Ice cubes: For shaking and serving.

Garnish: Apple slice, a sprig of mint or rosemary, and a cinnamon stick.

(Scroll below to the printable recipe card for details and measurements.)

How to Make Apple Bourbon Smash?

It can be a lot of fun to make your cocktails without being an expert mixologist. It’s a matter of attitude!

Instructions

1- Prepare the Glass
Use old-fashioned glass. For an extra festive touch, rim the glass with cinnamon sugar (optional) by dipping the edge in lemon juice and then in a mix of sugar and ground cinnamon.

2- Muddle the Rosemary
In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle the rosemary with maple syrup (or simple syrup) to release the herb aromatic oils. Be careful not to over-muddle, as this can make the rosemary taste bitter.

3- Add the Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, add bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, and bitters (if using). Fill the shaker with ice.

4- Shake It Up
Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to combine the flavors and chill the mixture.

5- Strain and Serve
Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass over fresh ice.

6- Garnish
Top with a half slice of apple, a sprig of mint, or a cinnamon stick for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variation of Apple Bourbon Smash

Most cocktails can be prepared in different variations, prepare the one you like best.

More recipes that you might love: Blackberry Mint Julep, Bourbon Sour, and Old Fashioned.

Here are a few popular variations:

Spiced Apple Bourbon Smash
Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the shaker for extra warmth and spice.

Cranberry Apple Smash
Add a splash of cranberry juice or muddle a few fresh cranberries with the mint for a tart, festive twist.

Sparkling Bourbon Smash
Top the cocktail with a splash of club soda or ginger beer for a bubbly, refreshing version.

Non-Alcoholic Apple Smash
Replace the bourbon with a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative, use apple puree, or simply omit it for a kid-friendly apple cider mocktail.

Pear and Apple Bourbon Smash
Mix in a splash of pear juice or puree for an extra layer of fruity flavor.

Smoky Bourbon Smash
Use a smoked bourbon or add a few drops of liquid smoke to give the drink a robust, smoky edge.

Suggestion to serve with Apple Bourbon Smash

Appetizers

1. Charcuterie Board
   1. Include aged cheeses like gouda, sharp cheddar, or brie to balance the drink’s sweetness.
   1. Add spiced nuts, dried apples, and prosciutto for a cohesive flavor palette.
2. Sweet Potato Crostini
   1. Topped with goat cheese and a drizzle of honey, these bites mirror the sweetness and warmth of the cocktail.

Main Courses

1. Roast Turkey or Chicken
   1. The savory, herbaceous flavors of roasted poultry pair beautifully with the spiced apple notes of the cocktail.
2. Honey-Glazed Ham
   1. The sweetness of the glaze complements the apple and bourbon, creating a harmonious pairing.

When to Serve Apple Bourbon Smash?

This recipe is a versatile and flavorful cocktail that works well for a variety of occasions, particularly during the cooler months when its warm, spiced flavors are most appreciated

1. Fall Gatherings and Parties

• A natural choice for autumn celebrations, such as harvest parties or casual get-togethers with friends and family.
• Its blend of apple cider, bourbon, and warm spices captures the essence of the season.

2. Thanksgiving Dinner

• A delightful pre-dinner cocktail that sets a festive tone and fall flavor for the Thanksgiving meal.
• Pairs beautifully with traditional Thanksgiving dishes like roast turkey, stuffing, and apple pie.

3. Holiday Party

• Ideal for Christmas or holiday cocktail parties, where its cozy flavors can complement the festive atmosphere.
• Serve alongside other holiday drinks like mulled wine or eggnog for a complete seasonal menu.

4. Bonfires and Outdoor Gatherings

• A comforting drink for chilly evenings by the fire, whether at a backyard bonfire or a camping trip.
• Its warming bourbon base makes it perfect for sipping while wrapped in a blanket.

5. Brunch with a Twist

• Adds a creative option to a fall-inspired brunch menu, pairing well with dishes like apple cinnamon pancakes or savory quiches.

No matter the setting, the Apple Bourbon Smash is a crowd-pleasing drink that combines comfort, flavor, and elegance, making it an excellent choice for any fall or winter occasion.

Notes:

Customize the Garnish
Garnishes are not just decorative—they enhance the drink’s aroma and flavor. For extra flair, use a caramel-dipped apple slice or a dehydrated apple ring.

Pre-Chill Your Glassware
For a truly refreshing drink, chill your glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before serving.

Did You Make This Recipe?

Snap a picture and mention it on Instagram: @mixop.cocktails

Continue to Content

Yield: 1

Apple Bourbon Smash

Print

The Apple Bourbon Smash is a delightful cocktail that captures the essence of autumn with its warm, spiced flavors and crisp apple.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 3 oz fresh apple cider
• ½ oz fresh lemon juice
• ½ oz maple syrup or simple syrup
• 2-3 sprig of rosemary
• 1-2 dashes of Angostura bitters (optional)
• Garnish: Slices of fresh apple, a sprig of mint, or a cinnamon stick.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glass: Use an old-fashioned glass. For an extra festive touch, rim the glass with cinnamon sugar (optional) by dipping the edge in lemon juice and then in a mix of sugar and ground cinnamon.
2. Muddle: In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle the sprigs of rosemary with maple syrup (or simple syrup) to release the herb's aromatic oils. Be careful not to over-muddle, as this can make the rosemary taste bitter.
3. Add the Ingredients To the cocktail shaker, and add bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, and bitters (if using). Fill the shaker with ice.
4. Shake It Up: Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to combine the flavors and chill the mixture.
5. Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
6. Garnish: Top with a half slice of apple, a sprig of mint, or a cinnamon stick for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

 

Notes

• Customize the GarnishGarnishes are not just decorative—they enhance the drink’s aroma and flavor. For extra flair, use a caramel-dipped apple slice or a dehydrated apple ring.
• Pre-Chill Your Glassware For a truly refreshing drink, chill your glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before serving.

 

Nutrition Information

Yield

1

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 862Total Fat 1gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 0gCholesterol 0mgSodium 20mgCarbohydrates 221gFiber 7gSugar 204gProtein 1g

Nutrition information isn´t always accurate!

You Also Might Love:

Apple Cider Cocktail

Apple Cider Cocktail is the perfect drink when the fall season arrives, the crispness of the air and the abundance of fresh apples make it the perfect time to enjoy!

Whiskey Smash

Whiskey Smash is a recipe for lovers and non-lovers of this distillate, it is simple but with many flavors!

Smoked Whiskey

Nothing like this recipe for Smoked Whiskey where there is a bit of a show for our eyes, but also a woody and smoky smell and taste in the result of the cocktail.