Apple Bourbon Cocktail: the coziest fall bourbon drink

This cozy apple bourbon cocktail is made with apple butter, bourbon and a hint of maple. This will be your new favorite fall happy hour drink!

Why you’ll love this apple bourbon cocktail 

When it comes to fall cocktails I love something that is warm, spiced and perfect for cozying up on the couch. This apple bourbon cocktail hits all of those markers with easy seasonal ingredients. Made with your favorite bourbon and homemade apple butter for richness and depth.

The secret ingredient: Apple Butter 

Adding a little homemade apple butter to my cocktails has been a total game changer. I make it in one pot on the stovetop and not only does it tastes fantastic, it makes my entire house smell like fall.

Just a tablespoon or two instantly adds next level fresh apple flavor and turns a basic cocktail into something so special.

The combination of apple butter and a touch of maple syrup makes this cocktail perfectly sweetened and balanced with apple flavor.

Ingredients you’ll need for this fall bourbon cocktail: 

• your favorite bourbon or whiskey – Woodford Reserve, Bulleit and Makers Mark are always crowd pleasers
• apple juice – makes the cocktail juicy
• fresh lemon juice – balances the sweetness and makes every sip bright
• maple syrup – gives the cocktail sweetness and depth in flavor
• apple butter – the star of the show – providing the BEST apple flavor
• Brown Sugar (optional) – for rimming your cocktail glass
• Cinnamon stick – for garnish
• Fresh orange or lemon peel – for garnish

How to make this Apple Bourbon Cocktail: 

1. Add ingredients: In a cocktail shaker add bourbon, apple juice, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and apple butter.
   
   (Optional) To rim your glass: Moisten your glass a bit with lemon juice and dip into the brown sugar lightly.

1. Shake it up! Add two scoops of ice. Seal the shaker and shake until the shaker is very cold and frosty. 

1. Enjoy! Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish your apple bourbon cocktail with a cinnamon stick and a fresh orange or lemon peel.

Variations and Substitutions: 

If you love bubbles! If you love a bubbly cocktail, try topping it off with a little ginger beer.

Add some smoke! If you love a smoky cocktail, try a bourbon with mesquite flavors or even a Mezcal version for some serious added depth

More bourbon cocktail recipes to try!

For friendsgiving! Try this Big Batch Bourbon Apple Cider Smash

For something classic: Try this batched old fashioned recipe

For something sweet: Try a maple old fashioned with pancake puffs

For fruity flare: try a blackberry bourbon smash

If you make this Apple Bourbon Cocktail, be sure to tag me on Pinterest and Instagram!

I seriously love seeing what you guys are making and sharing your creations with the Everyday Elizabeth community!