Paul Kushner
The Caramel Apple Cider Crush is a crisp and refreshing cocktail with a sweet autumn twist. Apple cider provides a fruity base, while salted caramel vodka adds a smooth, dessert-like richness. Finished with a splash of ginger ale, it strikes the perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and bubbly. Light yet flavorful, this drink makes an excellent choice for fall gatherings or casual evenings when you want a simple cocktail that still feels seasonal. Garnished with apple slices and optional cinnamon-sugar rim, it’s as visually inviting as it is easy to sip.
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Tasting Notes
The Caramel Apple Cider Crush delivers the perfect blend of crisp apple flavor, smooth caramel sweetness, and a refreshing touch of ginger ale. The salted caramel vodka deepens the cider’s natural fruitiness with a sweet-salty balance that feels warming yet approachable. Ginger ale lightens the drink, adding a subtle fizz and a touch of spice that pairs beautifully with the autumn-inspired flavors. A cinnamon-sugar rim enhances the aroma and gives an extra layer of sweetness with every sip. Fresh apple slices round out the drink, making it as visually appealing as it is flavorful.
Equipment and Glassware
This Caramel Apple Cider Crush requires only a few tools, making it quick to prepare. A rocks glass or short tumbler is the best choice, especially when filled with crushed ice to highlight the “crush” style presentation. A bar spoon is useful for stirring the cider and vodka before topping with ginger ale. A paring knife and small cutting board help with preparing apple slices for garnish. If you’re adding the cinnamon-sugar rim, a shallow dish for dipping and a slice of apple to moisten the rim are helpful. No shaker or strainer is needed, keeping this drink simple.
Ingredients
- 2 oz apple cider
- 2 oz salted caramel vodka
- 2 oz ginger ale adjust to taste
- Cinnamon-sugar for rimming, optional
- Apple slices for garnish
Instructions
- If desired, rim a small section of your glass with cinnamon sugar by running an apple slice along the rim and dipping it into the sugar mixture.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice.
- Add the apple cider and salted caramel vodka to the glass, stirring to combine.
- Top with ginger ale, adjusting the amount based on your taste preference.
- Garnish with fresh apple slices and serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly pressed apple cider for more natural flavor.
- Adjust ginger ale quantity depending on sweetness and strength preference.
- Chill the vodka beforehand to keep the drink colder.
- Try flavored ginger ale, like cranberry or spiced, for a seasonal twist.
- Prepare cinnamon-sugar in advance with equal parts sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Cut apple slices thin so they float easily without sinking.
- Crushed ice works best, but small cubes are a fine substitute.
When to Serve
The Caramel Apple Cider Crush is ideal for autumn gatherings, holiday parties, or casual evenings when you want a cocktail that feels seasonal without being heavy. Its balance of cider, caramel, and ginger ale makes it versatile enough for pre-dinner drinks or a refreshing after-dinner option. It’s particularly fitting for Halloween celebrations, Thanksgiving dinners, or cozy weekends by the fire. Since it doesn’t require complex mixing, it’s also a great choice for making in small batches for friends. The drink’s presentation, with apple slices and optional cinnamon rim, makes it festive for any autumn occasion.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Salted Caramel Vodka: Smirnoff Kissed Caramel, Stolichnaya Salted Karamel, or Van Gogh Dutch Caramel.
- Apple Cider: Martinelli’s, R.W. Knudsen, or fresh orchard-pressed cider.
- Ginger Ale: Canada Dry, Fever-Tree, or Schweppes for reliable fizz.
- Optional Garnishes: McCormick ground cinnamon, Domino sugar, and fresh apples like Honeycrisp or Gala.
Similar Cocktails
- Salted Caramel Apple Martini
- Caramel Apple Sangria
- Caramel Vodka Apple Cider Cocktail
- Snow White’s Poison Apple
- Apple Cider Sangria
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz apple cider
- 2 oz salted caramel vodka
- 2 oz ginger ale adjust to taste
- Cinnamon-sugar for rimming, optional
- Apple slices for garnish
Instructions
- If desired, rim a small section of your glass with cinnamon sugar by running an apple slice along the rim and dipping it into the sugar mixture.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice.
- Add the apple cider and salted caramel vodka to the glass, stirring to combine.
- Top with ginger ale, adjusting the amount based on your taste preference.
- Garnish with fresh apple slices and serve immediately.
Notes
Pro Tips
- For a stronger caramel note, drizzle a little caramel syrup inside the glass before adding ice.
- Use hard cider instead of ginger ale for a more robust version.
- Try garnishing with a cinnamon stick to enhance the aroma.
