Description
A cozy cocktail that tastes just like freshly baked apple pie in liquid form. This seasonal favorite combines smooth vanilla vodka with real apple cider and warm spices, creating a nostalgic drinking experience that’s perfect for autumn entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 oz vanilla vodka
- 2 oz fresh apple cider
- 1/2 oz caramel sauce
- 1/4 oz cinnamon schnapps
- 1/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- Ice cubes
For garnish:
-
- Graham cracker crumbs mixed with cinnamon sugar (for rim)
- Thin apple slice
- Cinnamon stick
- Caramel drizzle
- Optional: whipped cream float
Instructions
- Mix graham cracker crumbs with cinnamon sugar on a small plate.
- Rim a rocks glass with caramel sauce, then dip in the graham cracker mixture.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Add vanilla vodka, apple cider, caramel sauce, cinnamon schnapps, and lemon juice.
- Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
- Fill the prepared rocks glass with fresh ice.
- Strain the mixture into the glass.
- Drizzle with additional caramel sauce.
- Garnish with apple slice and cinnamon stick.
- Optional: Top with a float of whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon.
Notes
- Use fresh apple cider (not apple juice) for best results
- Warm the caramel sauce slightly for easier mixing
- Can be served either cold or warm
- For a warm version, heat apple cider before mixing
- Non-alcoholic version: Use apple cider, caramel, vanilla extract, and cinnamon syrup
- Make ahead: Mix liquid ingredients (except garnishes) up to 24 hours in advance
- The rim mixture can be stored in an airtight container for multiple uses
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 85mg