Apple Cider

Old Fashioned

🍎 Spiced Apple Cider Old Fashioned

A cozy fall twist on the classic old fashioned, this cocktail blends smooth bourbon with homemade spiced apple cider syrup (made with Trader Joe’s cider) and a touch of bitters. Perfect for chilly evenings, autumn gatherings, or holiday parties.

Ingredients

Cocktail

  • 2 oz bourbon

  • 0.5 oz apple cider syrup (see recipe below)

  • 3 dashes Angostura bitters

  • Large ice cube

Apple Cider Syrup

Instructions

Make the Syrup

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and apple cider.

  2. Stir over low heat until the sugar has fully dissolved.

  3. Remove from heat and let cool.

  4. Transfer to a clean container and refrigerate.

    • Shelf life: 1–2 weeks refrigerated.

Mix the Cocktail

  1. Place a large ice cube in a tumbler or rocks glass.

  2. Add 3 dashes of Angostura bitters.

  3. Pour in 0.5 oz of apple cider syrup and 2 oz of bourbon.

  4. Stir gently to combine.

  5. Garnish with an orange peel or cinnamon stick, if desired.

🎉 Party Punch Version

If you’re hosting and don’t want to make individual drinks, turn this recipe into a punch that serves about 12–14 people:

  • 1 bottle bourbon (750 ml)

  • 3 oz spiced apple cider syrup

  • 36 dashes Angostura bitters (or 0.75 oz for easy measuring)

  • 8oz filter water

  • Garnish: orange wheels and/or cinnamon sticks

Instructions:

  1. In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine bourbon, syrup, water and bitters.

  2. Add a large ice cube

  3. Stir well and chill until ready to serve.

  4. Add orange wheels and cinnamon sticks before serving.

  5. Serve over ice in rocks glasses.

Tip: Make the punch a few hours ahead and keep it chilled the flavors meld beautifully. Add the garnishes just before serving for the best presentation.