Juicy Apple Bourbon Fall Cocktail

The Juicy Apple Bourbon Fall Cocktail is a seasonal drink that combines the richness of bourbon with the crisp sweetness of apple juice. A touch of maple syrup and simple syrup adds smooth depth, while lemon juice brightens the flavor for balance. Served over ice and garnished with fresh apple slices, it’s a refreshing yet cozy cocktail that feels perfect for autumn evenings. Add a splash of sparkling water for a lighter version, or keep it classic and bold. This drink makes an excellent choice for gatherings, cool-weather sipping, or a festive toast with friends.

---

Tasting Notes

This Juicy Apple Bourbon Fall Cocktail blends the richness of bourbon with the crisp sweetness of apple for a drink that feels both refreshing and warming. The bourbon provides depth with caramel and oak notes, while apple juice adds freshness that lightens the spirit. A touch of maple syrup complements the whiskey’s natural sweetness and introduces a cozy autumn character. Lemon juice brings balance with a tart edge, ensuring the drink doesn’t lean too sweet. Served over ice, the cocktail is smooth and easy to sip. Garnished with fresh apple slices or orange peel, it’s aromatic, seasonal, and pleasantly layered.

Equipment and Glassware

This Juicy Apple Bourbon Fall Cocktail requires only simple bar tools. A jigger ensures the bourbon, syrups, and juice are measured accurately for balance. A rocks glass is the ideal choice, allowing the bourbon base to shine while accommodating ice and garnishes. A bar spoon helps mix the ingredients directly in the glass, making this an easy build-style drink. Fresh ice cubes are important for maintaining chill and texture. A sharp paring knife is useful for thinly slicing the apple garnish, while a peeler works well if you prefer adding a citrus peel instead. Overall, the tools are minimal and approachable.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Bourbon
• 3/4 oz simple syrup
• 2 oz apple juice
• 1/2 tsp maple syrup
• lemon juice
• 2 slices fresh red apple thinly sliced (for garnish)
• Sparkling water optional

Instructions

• In a rocks glass, pour the lemon juice add the simple syrup and a dash of maple syrup to the glass.
• Fill the glass with ice.
• Pour in the bourbon and apple juice.
• Stir with a long bar spoon until completely combined and chilled.
• Garnish with thin slices of fresh red apple or a little orange peel.
• For a sparkling touch, top off with a splash of sparkling water.
• Serve chilled and enjoy your Juicy Apple Bourbon Fall Cocktail!

Pro Tips

• Use freshly pressed apple juice for a richer flavor.
• Adjust maple syrup depending on your sweetness preference.
• Try a higher-proof bourbon if you want a bolder base.
• Add sparkling water last to keep bubbles intact.
• Garnish with both apple and orange peel for layered aroma.
• Pre-chill the glass for extra refreshment.
• Experiment with flavored simple syrups, such as cinnamon or ginger, for added depth.

When to Serve

This Juicy Apple Bourbon Fall Cocktail is ideal for fall gatherings, offering a seasonal balance of freshness and warmth. Its approachable flavor makes it a versatile choice for Thanksgiving dinners, apple-picking celebrations, or cozy nights by the fire. It works well as a before-dinner drink, pairing nicely with savory appetizers, or as a lighter cocktail option alongside desserts. Because it can be served with or without sparkling water, it adapts to both casual and more festive occasions. Whether enjoyed at a holiday party or in a quiet evening setting, it highlights seasonal flavors in a simple yet memorable way.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Bourbon: Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, or Buffalo Trace for balanced flavor.
• Apple Juice: Martinelli’s, R.W. Knudsen, or fresh orchard-pressed options.
• Maple Syrup: Crown Maple, Coombs Family Farms, or any pure Grade A variety.
• Simple Syrup: Homemade or quality bottled brands like Monin.
• Sparkling Water (optional): Topo Chico, San Pellegrino, or Perrier for crisp carbonation.
• Apple Garnish: Choose crisp red varieties such as Honeycrisp or Fuji for fresh flavor and presentation.

Similar Cocktails

• Fall from the Tree
• Apple Maple Dark and Stormy
• Autumn Vodka Smash
• Wild Turkey Thanksgiving Cocktail
• Harvest Apple Spritz