Description
This Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail is a perfectly balanced fall-inspired drink combining the warm, rich flavors of bourbon and applejack with the crisp freshness of apple cider and a hint of thyme. Lightly sweetened with thyme-infused simple syrup and brightened with lemon juice and bitters, this cocktail offers a refreshing yet cozy beverage ideal for autumn gatherings or a relaxing evening.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquors
- 1 ounce bourbon
- 1 ounce applejack
Fresh Ingredients
- 1 ounce fresh apple cider
- ½ ounce fresh lemon juice
Sweeteners and Bitters
- ½ ounce thyme-infused simple syrup (see notes below)
- 1 dash Angostura bitters
Instructions
- Prepare the cocktail shaker: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice to chill the mixture effectively and maintain a cold temperature during shaking.
- Combine ingredients: Add 1 ounce of bourbon, 1 ounce of applejack, 1 ounce of fresh apple cider, ½ ounce of fresh lemon juice, ½ ounce of thyme-infused simple syrup, and 1 dash of Angostura bitters to the shaker.
- Shake the cocktail: Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to mix the ingredients thoroughly and create a well-integrated, chilled cocktail.
- Strain and serve: Strain the cocktail into an ice-filled glass, ensuring no ice shards or pulp interrupt the smooth texture of the drink.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish your cocktail with fresh thyme sprigs and thin apple slices to enhance both the presentation and aroma.
Notes
- To make thyme-infused simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, add fresh thyme sprigs, bring to a simmer until sugar dissolves, then let cool and strain out thyme.
- This cocktail is best served immediately while cold and fresh.
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of thyme-infused simple syrup to your taste.
