Try This Irresistible Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash with Maple Syrup Now

There’s nothing like wrapping your hands around a chilled glass of something cozy after a crisp fall day—especially when it’s my Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash with Maple Syrup. This cocktail is like autumn in a glass, with bourbon’s warmth, tart apple, a whisper of cinnamon, and just enough maple syrup to sweeten the deal. I first whipped this up for friends during a bonfire last October, and now it’s our go-to for game nights and pumpkin-carving parties. The best part? It comes together in minutes, but tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. Trust me, one sip and you’ll be hooked.

Table of contents:

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash with Maple Syrup

This cocktail is my little love letter to fall, and here’s why it’ll be your new favorite too:

• 5-minute magic: From shaker to sip faster than you can say “apple pie”
• Just the right balance: Bourbon’s bite plays nice with sweet maple and tart apple
• Autumn in a glass: That cinnamon warmth makes it perfect for sweater weather
• Your drink, your rules: Add more maple syrup or cinnamon to match your mood

Ingredients for Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash with Maple Syrup

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cozy cocktail sing – and yes, every ingredient matters! I learned the hard way that shortcuts just don’t taste the same.

• 2 oz bourbon: Use your favorite brand, but nothing too smoky – we want those caramel notes to shine
• 1 oz apple cider: Fresh-pressed, never from concentrate (it makes all the difference in flavor)
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice: Squeeze it right before mixing – bottled stuff tastes flat
• 1/2 oz pure maple syrup: The real stuff from Vermont or Canada, not pancake syrup
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon: Just enough to whisper “autumn” without overpowering
• 1/4 cup diced apple: Honeycrisp or Fuji hold up best – and yes, leave the skin on for color!
• Ice cubes: Big, solid ones that won’t melt too fast
• Garnishes: Thin apple slice and a cinnamon stick for that “wow” factor

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash with Maple Syrup

Okay, let’s make some magic happen! This cocktail comes together in just a few simple steps, but there are a couple tricks I’ve learned over the years to get it just right.

Muddle the Base

First things first – grab your shaker and toss in those diced apples with the maple syrup and cinnamon. Now, here’s where people mess up: don’t go nuts with the muddler! You just want to gently press the apples to release their juices – about 5-6 light presses does the trick. If you pulverize them, you’ll end up with apple mush in your drink (not cute). The syrup should look lightly golden and fragrant when you’re done.

Shake and Strain

Now pour in your bourbon, apple cider, and lemon juice. Fill that shaker about 3/4 full with ice – I’m talking a solid handful – and shake like you mean it! Ten to fifteen seconds is perfect; you’ll hear the sound change when it’s properly chilled. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into your glass filled with fresh ice (this catches any stubborn apple bits). Top with that pretty apple slice and cinnamon stick garnish, and boom – you’ve got yourself the coziest cocktail of the season.

Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash with Maple Syrup

After making this cocktail more times than I can count (what? It’s research!), I’ve picked up a few tricks that take it from good to “oh wow”:

• Taste as you go: Start with 1/4 tsp cinnamon, then add a pinch more if you want extra warmth
• Chill your glass: Toss it in the freezer for 5 minutes first – that first icy sip is everything
• Double strain: Use both your shaker’s built-in strainer and a fine mesh sieve for the smoothest texture
• Fresh garnishes: Rub the apple slice with lemon juice to keep it from browning while you sip

Pro tip: The maple syrup settles to the bottom – give your drink one quick stir before that first sip to blend all the flavors perfectly.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Ran out of maple syrup? No problem! This cocktail adapts beautifully:

• Sweetener swap: Try honey or brown sugar syrup if maple’s not your thing
• Apple alternatives: Pears add a floral twist, or use unsweetened applesauce in a pinch
• Bourbon buddies: Rye whiskey brings peppery spice, while rum makes it tropical

My wildcard? A splash of ginger beer instead of cider – trust me, it’s a game-changer!

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash with Maple Syrup

This cocktail deserves great company! I always serve mine in a thick-bottomed rocks glass – it just feels right in your hands. A quick dusting of cinnamon over the ice makes it extra inviting. For food pairings? Try salty roasted nuts or sharp cheeses to balance the sweetness. And if you’re feeling fancy, mini caramel apple tarts turn it into dessert!

Storing and Make-Ahead Tips

Let’s be real – this Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash with Maple Syrup is happiest fresh, but I’ve got your back for prep shortcuts! Dice those apples up to 2 hours ahead (toss with a little lemon juice to prevent browning). Keep cider and syrup chilled separately – mix everything else at the last minute for peak freshness. Just don’t shake with ice until you’re ready to serve!

Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash with Maple Syrup FAQs

I’ve gotten so many questions about this cocktail over the years – here are the ones that pop up most often:

“Can I use bottled apple cider instead of fresh?”
Oh honey, don’t do it! The concentrate stuff tastes flat and tinny compared to fresh-pressed cider. Your cocktail will thank you for splurging on the good stuff – I can always tell the difference.

“What’s the best non-alcoholic version?”
Easy! Swap the bourbon for strongly brewed spiced chai tea – it keeps that cozy warmth. You might need to bump up the maple syrup just a touch to balance the tannins.

“How can I make it sweeter?”
Start with 1/2 oz maple syrup, then add another 1/4 oz if needed after tasting. My friend Sarah likes hers extra sweet – she does equal parts maple syrup and lemon juice. Your drink, your rules!

Estimated Nutritional Information

Now, I’m no dietitian, but here’s the skinny on what’s in your glass – give or take a bit depending on your exact ingredients:

• Calories: About 180 per serving (blame the maple syrup – but it’s worth it!)
• Sugar: 12g from the natural apple and maple sweetness
• Carbs: Around 18g total

Remember, these numbers are estimates – your favorite bourbon or apple variety might shift things slightly. Drink responsibly and enjoy every sip!

Share Your Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash with Maple Syrup

I’d love to see your cozy creations! Snap a pic of your masterpiece and tag me—or leave a comment about how you made it your own. Did you add extra cinnamon? Try it with pear? Spill all your tasty secrets below! You can also find more delicious recipes on Pinterest.

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