Apple Cosmopolitan

The Apple Cosmopolitan is a crisp and seasonal twist on the classic Cosmo, offering a balance of tart, sweet, and spiced flavors. Vodka provides a clean base, while apple cider adds autumn character. Orange liqueur and lime juice bring brightness, and cinnamon syrup weaves in gentle warmth. Served in a chilled martini glass and finished with an apple slice garnish, this cocktail is stylish yet approachable. Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or evenings when you want a refined drink with seasonal flair, the Apple Cosmopolitan is as refreshing as it is flavorful.

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Tasting Notes

The Apple Cosmopolitan takes the classic cosmo and gives it a crisp, seasonal twist. Vodka forms the clean, smooth base, while apple cider adds natural sweetness and fruit character. Orange liqueur layers in citrus brightness, and lime juice sharpens the drink with tart freshness, balancing the cider’s sweetness. Cinnamon syrup brings gentle spice, adding warmth and complexity without overpowering the cocktail. Served in a chilled martini glass with an apple slice garnish, this cosmo variation is refreshing yet layered, offering a seasonal balance of sweet, tart, and spiced flavors that works equally well for autumn evenings or holiday gatherings.

Equipment and Glassware

The Apple Cosmopolitan is simple to make and requires just a few tools. A cocktail shaker is essential for thoroughly blending and chilling the vodka, cider, citrus, and syrup. A jigger ensures precise measurement of each ingredient, keeping flavors balanced. A strainer provides a clean pour into the serving glass, while a fine strainer can be used for extra smoothness if desired. For presentation, a classic martini or coupe glass is ideal, showcasing the cocktail’s light amber hue. A sharp paring knife helps prepare apple slices for garnish, adding visual appeal and a seasonal finishing touch.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz apple cider
• 1/2 oz cinnamon syrup
• 1/2 oz orange liqueur
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• Apple slice for garnish

Instructions

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add the vodka, apple cider, cinnamon syrup, orange liqueur, and lime juice to the shaker.
• Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
• Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
• Garnish with an apple slice.

Pro Tips

• Use freshly pressed apple cider for brighter flavor.
• Make homemade cinnamon syrup for stronger spice character.
• Chill your martini glass ahead of time for a crisper presentation.
• Adjust lime juice to control tartness.
• Use a thin apple slice for garnish so it floats neatly.
• For more spice, add a dash of aromatic bitters.
• Double strain for an extra smooth texture.and texture.

When to Serve

The Apple Cosmopolitan is perfect for fall and winter gatherings, offering a seasonal take on a well-known cocktail. It’s an excellent choice for dinner parties, holiday celebrations, or festive nights out, bringing familiarity with a unique twist. The balance of fruit, citrus, and spice makes it versatile, suitable as both a pre-dinner cocktail or a lively centerpiece for holiday events. Its presentation in a martini glass adds a sense of occasion, while the apple slice garnish reinforces its seasonal flair. Whether shared at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or cozy evenings in, this cocktail fits seamlessly into autumn entertaining.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Vodka: Absolut, Tito’s, or Smirnoff
• Orange liqueur: Cointreau or Grand Marnier
• Cinnamon syrup: Monin, Torani, or homemade (sugar, water, cinnamon sticks)
• Apple cider: Fresh-pressed, unfiltered for best flavor
• Lime juice: Always freshly squeezed

Similar Cocktails

• Caramel Apple Moscow Mule
• Apple Cider Cocktail
• Blood Orange Cosmopolitan
• Cherry Long Island Iced Tea
• Snow White’s Poison Apple