Have you ever had a drink that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day? That’s exactly what you get with this Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash Recipe. I absolutely love how the spicy cinnamon syrup tangos with the smooth bourbon, while the apple butter adds a cozy, comforting sweetness that’s just irresistible. It’s one of those cocktails that hits all the right notes: spicy, sweet, and fresh, making it a perfect sipper for crisp fall evenings or holiday gatherings.
What makes this Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash Recipe truly special is how simple ingredients come together to create something unexpectedly delightful. When I first tried it, I was amazed at how the flavors danced—the cayenne’s kick mingling with the ginger beer fizz elevates it beyond your average cocktail. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day, you’ll find this smash recipe as dependable as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Warm and Spicy Comfort: The cinnamon and ginger flavors combined with bourbon create a cozy drink perfect for cooler months.
- Easy to Make: You can whip this up quickly with pantry staples and a small batch of syrup that stores for several drinks.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a cocktail or easily turn it into a mocktail for all your friends and family.
- Impresses Every Time: My family goes crazy for this recipe whenever I make it, and I bet yours will too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash Recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor. From the warmth of cinnamon sticks to the zing of fresh ginger, these components come together beautifully. Here’s what to look for when shopping:
- Maple syrup: I prefer 100% pure maple syrup for that rich, natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with spices.
- Cinnamon sticks: Choose fresh sticks for the most potent, aromatic flavor.
- Fresh ginger: Adds a subtle heat and brightness—don’t skip it!
- Cayenne pepper: Just a pinch gives a spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
- Bourbon: I find a mid-shelf bourbon works great—smooth but with enough character.
- Lemon or grapefruit juice: Fresh-squeezed juice brightens the drink and cuts through the sweetness.
- Apple butter: Adds a luscious apple flavor and texture—if you can’t find it, homemade or store-bought, both work fine.
- Orange bitters: A few dashes deepen the complexity and add a lovely citrusy bitterness.
- Ginger beer: Use a quality, spicy ginger beer to top off and add fizz.
Variations
One of the best things about the Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash Recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on what you love or what you have around. I like to experiment depending on the season or my mood, and you should too! Here are some ideas to get your creativity flowing:
- Mocktail version: I often make this for guests who prefer to skip alcohol—just swap bourbon for apple cider and add a touch of vanilla extract for warmth.
- Spice level: Want it extra spicy? Add more cayenne or ginger, but I’d recommend starting with small amounts to keep the balance right.
- Fruit variations: Pear butter or jam can substitute for apple butter if you want a slightly different fruit flair.
- Herbal twist: Sometimes I muddle fresh rosemary or thyme with the syrup for a subtle herbaceous note that’s so unexpected and delicious.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash Recipe
Step 1: Whip Up the Spicy Cinnamon Syrup
This step sets the flavor foundation, so don’t rush it. Bring water, maple syrup, cinnamon sticks, and sliced fresh ginger to a boil in a medium pot over high heat. Let it bubble for 2-3 minutes, which helps those warm spices infuse beautifully. Then remove from heat and stir in the cayenne pepper—this little kick adds unexpected depth. Once it cools, strain the syrup into a clean jar. Pro tip: You’ll get enough syrup for about six drinks, so stash the extras in the fridge for whenever a cozy cocktail craving strikes.
Step 2: Shake Up Your Smash
Grab a cocktail shaker and combine 1-2 tablespoons of your spicy cinnamon syrup with bourbon, lemon or grapefruit juice, apple butter, and a couple dashes of orange bitters. Add a good handful of ice and shake it like you mean it—about 15 seconds does the trick. The goal here is to chill and mix everything well, breaking up the apple butter a bit but keeping its luscious texture.
Step 3: Pour, Top, and Garnish
Strain your shaken cocktail into a glass—ice optional depending on your mood. The final flourish? Top with spicy ginger beer for fizz and a little bite. I usually garnish with thin apple slices, a couple pomegranate arils for that pop of color, and a cinnamon stick. One time, I even lit the cinnamon stick on fire for a smoky effect that wowed everyone—just be sure to blow it out before sipping!
Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash Recipe
- Make Syrup Ahead: I like to prepare the syrup a day in advance so the flavors can meld even more — it tastes richer the next day.
- Fresh Juice is Key: Using fresh lemon or grapefruit juice brightens the drink and helps balance out the sweet and spicy.
- Gentle Shake: Shake just enough to mix and chill; vigorous shaking can overly dilute the drink or break up the apple butter too much.
- Cinnamon Stick Flames: If you light the cinnamon stick for presentation, don’t leave it unattended and make sure it’s fully extinguished before drinking – safety first!
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash Recipe
Garnishes
Personally, I love keeping the garnishes fresh and seasonal. Thin apple slices add an elegant touch and reinforce the apple flavor, while pomegranate arils bring in a jewel-like brightness that’s visually stunning and slightly tart. The cinnamon stick isn’t just for flavor—it gives the drink a rustic, cozy aesthetic. Sometimes, I add a sprig of rosemary for a herbal aroma that complements the spices beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash pairs perfectly with savory snacks like spiced nuts or cheddar cheese and crackers—the kind of simple bites that don’t compete with the drink but enhance the cozy vibes. For a heartier option, I serve it alongside autumn-inspired dishes like roasted Brussels sprouts or cider-glazed pork chops. My family always comments on how the cocktail elevates the whole meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this at a party, try using vintage glassware or mason jars for a charming rustic look. I once arranged a little tasting bar where each guest could add their own twists—extra bitters, a splash more syrup, or different garnishes—and it made the experience fun and interactive. Another favorite trick is to rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for a sweet first sip.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store any leftover spicy cinnamon syrup in a sealed glass jar in the fridge, where it stays fresh for up to two weeks. This means you can quickly shake up another round whenever the mood strikes without starting from scratch.
Freezing
While I haven’t frozen the syrup itself, I wouldn’t recommend freezing a cocktail with apple butter and citrus because they can change texture and flavor upon thawing. Instead, stick to freezing components like ginger beer or bourbon separately if needed.
Reheating
This recipe shines best fresh or chilled, so I don’t usually reheat leftovers. However, if you want a warm twist, the syrup tastes lovely gently warmed with some apple cider for a cozy hot toddy feel.
FAQs
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Can I make the Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash Recipe without bourbon?
Absolutely! Just omit the bourbon and substitute with apple cider and a splash of vanilla extract. The mocktail version keeps the cozy, spicy flavors but is perfect for those who avoid alcohol or want a lighter option.
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How spicy is this cinnamon apple smash?
The cayenne pepper adds a gentle heat that balances the sweetness without overpowering. You can always adjust the amount of cayenne to your taste—start with a pinch and increase if you love a bit more spice.
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Can I use store-bought apple butter?
Yes! I’ve used both homemade and store-bought apple butter with great results. Just make sure it’s not too sweet or overly spiced, so it blends nicely in the cocktail.
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How long does the spicy cinnamon syrup keep?
Stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container, the syrup should stay fresh for up to two weeks. It’s handy to make a batch ahead for quick cocktails anytime.
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Can I substitute ginger beer with ginger ale?
You can, but ginger beer has a stronger, spicier ginger flavor and is less sweet than ginger ale, which makes it a better match for this recipe. If you use ginger ale, consider reducing any other sweet ingredients slightly to keep the balance.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash Recipe quickly became one of my go-to drinks whenever I want something that’s both comforting and a little unexpected. The way those warm spices blend with fresh apple flavors and a smooth bourbon finish makes it truly unforgettable. You’ll enjoy how easy it is to make yet how special it tastes. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite cozy cocktail to share with friends or savor on your own quiet nights in.
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Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
The Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash is a warming, flavorful cocktail combining a spicy cinnamon syrup with bourbon, fresh citrus juice, apple butter, and a splash of ginger beer. This drink balances sweet maple syrup, spicy cinnamon, and a hint of cayenne with the rich depth of bourbon and bright acidity from lemon or grapefruit juice. Perfect for fall or winter sipping, it can also be made as a sophisticated mocktail.
Ingredients
Spicy Cinnamon Syrup
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 inch fresh ginger, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Apple Smash Cocktail
- 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) spicy cinnamon syrup
- 1 1/2 ounces (3 tablespoons) bourbon
- 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) lemon or grapefruit juice
- 1 tablespoon apple butter
- 1-2 dashes orange bitters
- Ginger beer, for topping
Garnish
- Apple slices
- Pomegranate arils
- Cinnamon sticks
Mocktail Version
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the Spicy Cinnamon Syrup: In a medium pot, combine 1/2 cup maple syrup, 2 cinnamon sticks, sliced fresh ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper with 1/2 cup water and bring to a boil over high heat. Boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat. Let the mixture cool before straining out the solids into a glass jar. This syrup yields enough for about six drinks.
- Prepare the Cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine 1-2 tablespoons of the prepared spicy cinnamon syrup, 1 1/2 ounces bourbon, 1 ounce lemon or grapefruit juice, 1 tablespoon apple butter, and 1-2 dashes orange bitters. Add ice and shake vigorously. Strain the mixture into a serving glass.
- Finish and Garnish: Top off the glass with ginger beer to add fizz and a refreshing finish. Garnish with apple slices, pomegranate arils, and a cinnamon stick. For an added smoky aroma, optionally light the cinnamon stick on fire briefly before serving.
- Mocktail Option: To make a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon and substitute with 1/4 cup apple cider and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract. Shake with the other ingredients and serve similarly topped with ginger beer and garnishes.
Notes
- The spicy cinnamon syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the syrup based on your preferred spice level.
- Use fresh lemon or grapefruit juice for the best bright citrus flavor.
- Lighting the cinnamon stick adds a beautiful smoky aroma but is optional and should be done carefully.
- Apple butter adds richness and apple flavor, but you can substitute with apple sauce if unavailable.
- To make multiple cocktails, multiply the syrup ingredients accordingly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail (approx. 8 ounces)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
