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Easy Cozy Apple Cider Cocktail with Cinnamon Rim

cozy spiced apple cider cocktail - featured image
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A warm, spiced apple cider cocktail with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar rim. Made with bourbon, apple cider, and whole spices, this cozy drink is perfect for crisp fall evenings and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • Lemon or orange wedge (for moistening rim, optional)
  • 1 ½ cups apple cider (unfiltered)
  • 2 ounces bourbon or whiskey
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 3 whole cloves
  • 1 star anise (optional)
  • 1 strip orange peel (about 2 inches, no white pith)
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup or brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cinnamon rim mixture: In a small shallow dish, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir with a fork until evenly mixed.
  2. Coat the rim of your mug: Use a pastry brush or your finger to spread a thin, even layer of honey or maple syrup around the outside rim of your mug. Dip the rim into the cinnamon sugar mixture, rotating gently until fully coated. Tap off excess. Set aside to dry for about 30 seconds.
  3. Heat the cider: Pour apple cider into a small saucepan. Add cinnamon stick, whole cloves, star anise, and orange peel. Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer (small bubbles around edges, not a rolling boil). This takes about 4-5 minutes.
  4. Steep the spices: Reduce heat to low and let steep for 5 minutes. Do not let it boil, as boiling can make spices bitter.
  5. Strain the cider: Place a fine mesh strainer over your prepared mug. Slowly pour the spiced cider through the strainer, catching whole spices and orange peel. Discard solids.
  6. Add the bourbon: Pour bourbon or whiskey into the spiced cider. Stir gently. Taste and adjust sweetness with maple syrup or brown sugar if desired.
  7. Garnish and serve: Drop a fresh cinnamon stick into the mug and/or float a fresh orange slice on top. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, skip the bourbon and add extra cider or a splash of vanilla extract and sparkling water. The spiced cider base can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; reheat gently before adding bourbon. For parties, multiply ingredients and steep in a large pot or slow cooker; keep bourbon separate for guests to add. Let the cinnamon rim dry for at least 30 seconds before pouring hot cider to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider cocktail, spiced apple cider, bourbon cocktail, fall cocktail, cinnamon rim, cozy drink, holiday cocktail

Find it online: https://spoonmira.com/easy-cozy-apple-cider-cocktail-with-cinnamon-rim/