Vanilla Bourbon Cider Cocktail Recipe

Introduction

The Vanilla Bourbon Cider Cocktail is a delightful blend of warm bourbon and crisp apple cider, accented with vanilla and a splash of lemon. Perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings, this easy-to-make drink offers a balanced mix of sweet and tart flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces bourbon
• 4 ounces apple cider
• 1/2 ounce vanilla syrup
• 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
• Ice cubes
• Apple slices or a cinnamon stick for garnish
• Ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Gather all your ingredients and have a cocktail shaker, jigger, and serving glass ready.
2. Step 2: Fill the cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to chill your drink properly.
3. Step 3: Measure 2 ounces of bourbon and pour it into the shaker.
4. Step 4: Add 4 ounces of apple cider to the shaker for a sweet, fruity base.
5. Step 5: Pour in 1/2 ounce of vanilla syrup for a warm, sweet twist.
6. Step 6: Add 1/2 ounce of fresh lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
7. Step 7: Secure the shaker lid and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to mix and chill.
8. Step 8: Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice cubes.
9. Step 9: Garnish with apple slices or a cinnamon stick for a festive look.
10. Step 10: Optionally, sprinkle a dash of ground cinnamon on top to add a hint of spice.

Tips & Variations

• Use spiced apple cider instead of regular for an extra layer of flavor.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less vanilla syrup to suit your taste.
• Try a splash of sparkling water for a lighter, fizzy option.
• Substitute bourbon with rye whiskey for a slightly different flavor profile.

Storage

This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh but if needed, you can prepare the mixture (without ice) and store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir well and add fresh ice before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought vanilla syrup?

Yes, store-bought vanilla syrup works perfectly and saves time, but homemade syrup can provide a fresher, more natural flavor.

What glass is best for serving this cocktail?

A rocks glass or a festive cocktail glass works well for this drink, depending on your preference and occasion.

Vanilla Bourbon Cider Cocktail Recipe

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4.6 from 91 reviews

• Author: Lana
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 serving 1x

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Description

This Vanilla Bourbon Cider Cocktail is a delightful autumn-inspired drink that combines smooth bourbon with sweet apple cider, warm vanilla syrup, and a touch of fresh lemon juice. Perfectly chilled and garnished with apple slices or a cinnamon stick, this cocktail offers a balanced blend of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors, making it an ideal choice for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Liquids

• 2 ounces bourbon
• 4 ounces apple cider
• 1/2 ounce vanilla syrup
• 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice

Other Ingredients

• Ice cubes
• Apple slices or a cinnamon stick for garnish
• Ground cinnamon (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients and Equipment: Gather all ingredients including bourbon, apple cider, vanilla syrup, fresh lemon juice, ice cubes, and garnishes. Ensure you have a cocktail shaker, a jigger for measuring, and your preferred serving glass ready.
2. Chill the Shaker: Fill the cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to chill and cool the mixture effectively during shaking.
3. Add Bourbon: Measure 2 ounces of bourbon using the jigger and pour it into the cocktail shaker over the ice.
4. Add Apple Cider: Pour 4 ounces of apple cider into the shaker to add a sweet and fruity base to the cocktail.
5. Add Vanilla Syrup: Measure and add 1/2 ounce of vanilla syrup, which imparts warm, sweet vanilla flavors enhancing the drink’s complexity.
6. Add Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeeze and measure 1/2 ounce of fresh lemon juice to the shaker. This brightens and balances the sweetness with a refreshing tartness.
7. Shake the Cocktail: Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to thoroughly mix and chill the ingredients.
8. Strain and Serve: Remove the shaker lid and strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice cubes. Use a rocks or cocktail glass based on preference.
9. Garnish: Add a few apple slices on the rim of the glass or insert a cinnamon stick for an aromatic and festive touch.
10. Add Cinnamon (Optional): Sprinkle a dash of ground cinnamon over the drink if you desire a subtle spicy note to complement the flavors.

Notes

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright and natural flavor impact.
• Vanilla syrup can be homemade or store-bought; adjust sweetness to your taste.
• The cocktail can be served in a rocks glass or cocktail glass depending on your preference.
• For a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with non-alcoholic whiskey or additional apple cider.
• Experiment with garnishes such as star anise or a twist of orange peel for added aroma.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Cocktail
• Method: Shaking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Vanilla Bourbon Cocktail, Autumn Cocktail, Apple Cider Cocktail, Bourbon Drink, Fall Drinks, Shaken Cocktail