Paul Kushner
The Smoked Cinnamon Apple Cider Bourbon Smash is an autumn cocktail that blends warming flavors with a touch of drama. Smooth bourbon pairs with crisp apple cider, while orange bitters add a subtle citrus spice. Optional agave syrup balances sweetness, making the drink adaptable to your taste. What sets this cocktail apart is its smoky preparation: a cinnamon stick or thyme sprig is ignited, and the glass is infused with its aromatic smoke before the drink is poured in. Finished with thyme, apple slices, or charred garnishes, this cocktail is as much an experience as it is a flavorful sip.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
This Smoked Cinnamon Apple Cider Bourbon Smash blends bold, smoky, and spiced elements into a seasonal drink that feels both warming and complex. The apple cider provides natural sweetness and fruitiness, while bourbon adds depth with oaky richness and a smooth finish. Orange bitters sharpen the flavor with a hint of citrus and spice, balancing the drink. Agave syrup, if used, rounds out the edges with a soft sweetness. The smoked cinnamon or thyme infusion brings a layer of earthy aroma that lingers with each sip. Garnished with fresh apple slices, herbs, or charred spices, it’s layered, flavorful, and aromatic.
Equipment and Glassware
A few tools are essential to prepare this Smoked Cinnamon Apple Cider Bourbon Smash. A cocktail shaker is needed for chilling and blending the cider, bourbon, bitters, and agave syrup. A jigger ensures accuracy when measuring ingredients. A bar spoon can help stir before shaking. For the smoking effect, use a lighter or torch, along with a fireproof plate or wooden plank to safely burn the cinnamon stick or thyme. A rocks glass is the ideal choice for serving, providing room for ice and garnishes. Tongs can be useful for handling smoked garnishes if lightly charred before placing them in the drink.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces apple cider
- 2 ounces bourbon
- 1.5 large drops orange bitters
- 0.5 ounce agave syrup optional
- Thyme Cinnamon sticks, and Apple slices optional, for garnish
Instructions
- To infuse your cocktail with a smoky flavor, take a fresh cinnamon stick (or sprig of thyme) and place it on a plate or wooden plank. Using a lighter, carefully ignite the end of the cinnamon stick or thyme until it begins to smoke. Place your cocktail glass over the smoking cinnamon stick or thyme to capture the aroma inside the glass. Let it sit for a few moments to absorb the smoke.
- While the glass is smoking, fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the apple cider, bourbon, orange bitters, and agave syrup (if using) to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously until the mixture is well-chilled and fully combined.
- Remove the smoking element from the glass and pour the shaken cocktail into the prepared glass.
- Garnish with fresh thyme, a cinnamon stick, and/or apple slices. For an extra smoky experience, you can lightly char the garnish with a lighter before adding it to the drink.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, smoky flavors of this autumn-inspired cocktail.
Pro Tips
- Always use a fireproof surface when igniting cinnamon or thyme.
- Trap smoke for at least 20–30 seconds for maximum aroma.
- Use freshly pressed apple cider for better flavor.
- A bold bourbon pairs best with smoky and spiced notes.
- Lightly char garnishes for added fragrance before serving.
- Adjust sweetness with agave syrup depending on cider style.
- Chill the rocks glass beforehand for a smoother finish.
When to Serve
The Smoked Cinnamon Apple Cider Bourbon Smash is best for cooler evenings when warming flavors and spice feel most inviting. It’s an excellent choice for autumn gatherings, dinner parties, or holiday celebrations where presentation matters. The smoky aroma makes it memorable for guests, while the flavor balances fruit and spirit in a way that suits both casual sipping and more formal occasions. Its dramatic preparation with smoke makes it an engaging cocktail to serve tableside. Whether by a fireplace or at a festive gathering, this drink adds both flavor and atmosphere to seasonal entertaining.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Bourbon: Woodford Reserve, Knob Creek, or Elijah Craig for depth.
- Apple Cider: Martinelli’s, R.W. Knudsen, or fresh orchard-pressed cider.
- Orange Bitters: Angostura Orange, Regans’ No. 6, or Fee Brothers.
- Agave Syrup: Madhava, Wholesome, or Tres Agaves.
- Garnishes: McCormick cinnamon sticks, fresh thyme sprigs, and Honeycrisp or Gala apple slices.
Similar Cocktails
- Bourbon Pear Cider
- Peach Me Cocktail
- Caramel Apple Manhattan
- Pecan Bourbon Old Fashioned
- Bourbon Caramel Milkshake
Equipment
- Lighter
- Plate
Ingredients
- 2 ounces apple cider
- 2 ounces bourbon
- 1.5 large drops orange bitters
- 0.5 ounce agave syrup optional
- Thyme Cinnamon sticks, and Apple slices optional, for garnish
Instructions
- To infuse your cocktail with a smoky flavor, take a fresh cinnamon stick (or sprig of thyme) and place it on a plate or wooden plank. Using a lighter, carefully ignite the end of the cinnamon stick or thyme until it begins to smoke. Place your cocktail glass over the smoking cinnamon stick or thyme to capture the aroma inside the glass. Let it sit for a few moments to absorb the smoke.
- While the glass is smoking, fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the apple cider, bourbon, orange bitters, and agave syrup (if using) to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously until the mixture is well-chilled and fully combined.
- Remove the smoking element from the glass and pour the shaken cocktail into the prepared glass.
- Garnish with fresh thyme, a cinnamon stick, and/or apple slices. For an extra smoky experience, you can lightly char the garnish with a lighter before adding it to the drink.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, smoky flavors of this autumn-inspired cocktail.
Notes
Pro Tips
- For a deeper smoky effect, repeat the glass-smoking step before pouring.
- Use freshly pressed apple cider for the most authentic flavor.
- Try experimenting with smoked wood chips if you want a more pronounced smokiness.
