Apple Cider Vodka Crush

The Apple Cider Vodka Crush is a refreshing and simple cocktail that highlights crisp fall flavors with a sparkling finish. Apple cider pairs with smooth vodka for a spirited base, while ginger ale adds effervescence and a touch of spice. Served over a mound of crushed ice, it’s chilled and easy to sip. Finished with a Honeycrisp apple slice, a cinnamon stick, and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, this cocktail is both aromatic and visually inviting. Quick to prepare yet festive enough for entertaining, it’s the perfect seasonal drink for casual gatherings or cozy evenings.

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Tasting Notes

The Apple Cider Vodka Crush is crisp, refreshing, and full of seasonal flavor. Apple cider sets the tone with fruity sweetness, while vodka adds a clean backbone that keeps the drink balanced. Ginger ale introduces gentle fizz and a touch of spice, tying the flavors together. Served over crushed ice, the cocktail has a smooth, cooling texture that makes it easy to enjoy. A garnish of Honeycrisp apple and cinnamon stick adds aroma and presentation, while a light dusting of cinnamon enhances the cider’s warmth. The result is a cocktail that feels lively yet comforting, perfect for autumn sipping.

Equipment and Glassware

This Apple Cider Vodka Crush requires only a few simple tools. A jigger ensures precise measurements for balanced flavor. A highball or rocks glass works best, providing plenty of room for crushed ice, fizz, and garnish. A bar spoon or stir stick is essential for blending the vodka, cider, and ginger ale evenly. A small paring knife makes preparing apple slices for garnish easy. For finishing touches, a fine sifter or shaker tin allows cinnamon to be sprinkled neatly across the top. With minimal equipment, the Apple Cider Vodka Crush comes together quickly, making it ideal for casual entertaining.

Ingredients

• 3 ounces apple cider
• 2 ounces ginger ale
• 1 ounce vodka
• 1 Honeycrisp apple slice for garnish
• 1 cinnamon stick for garnish
• Dash of cinnamon for sprinkling

Instructions

• Fill a highball or rocks glass entirely with crushed ice.
• Pour in the apple cider, vodka, and ginger ale over the ice.
• Use a stir stick to mix the ingredients well.
• Garnish with a slice of Honeycrisp apple and a cinnamon stick.
• Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on top.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your Apple Cider Vodka Crush!

Pro Tips

• Use freshly pressed apple cider for the brightest flavor.
• Choose a high-quality vodka for a smoother base.
• Chill ingredients before mixing for a crisper drink.
• Crushed ice gives the best texture, but small cubes work in a pinch.
• Sprinkle cinnamon lightly to avoid overpowering the flavors.
• Try ginger beer instead of ginger ale for a spicier variation.
• Slice apples thin so they float nicely on top.

When to Serve

The Apple Cider Vodka Crush is best for fall occasions when you want something refreshing but still tied to seasonal flavors. It works well at casual get-togethers, Thanksgiving celebrations, or cozy nights in. Its light, bubbly texture makes it versatile enough for daytime gatherings, while the cider and cinnamon elements keep it festive for evening entertaining. This cocktail pairs nicely with cheese boards, roasted dishes, or apple-based desserts. Easy to prepare in single servings, it’s also simple to scale for groups. With its balance of fizz, fruit, and spice, it’s a go-to drink for autumn entertaining.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Vodka: Tito’s Handmade, Grey Goose, or Absolut.
• Apple Cider: Martinelli’s, R.W. Knudsen, or orchard-pressed cider.
• Ginger Ale: Canada Dry, Fever-Tree, or Schweppes.
• Cinnamon: McCormick or Simply Organic.
• Apples: Honeycrisp slices for crispness and visual appeal.

Similar Cocktails

• Caramel Apple Sangria
• Sparkling Spiced Pumpkin Punch
• Autumn Spiced Rum Punch
• Pumpkin Pie Punch
• Harvest Punch