Our fall motto? The cooler the temps, the warmer the drink. But save your marshmallow-topped hot cocoa for December. When our weather app is hanging out in the 50s and 60s, it's time to pour a piping hot cup of apple cider. And to spike said cup with a little whiskey.
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Don't worry, you're not the only unhinged human who loves the combination of warm apple juice and alcohol. As it turns out, the fall favorite bevvy has some pretty boozy roots.
For the majority of our time on earth, apples were way too bitter to bite into. So their sole purpose was to be pressed into juice and left to ferment into a hard cider. Everyone in ancient times—from the Romans to the Germans to the English—were toasting glasses of hard cider and partying like it was 55 B.C. Even early American settlers drank it for nutritional purposes to get through those particularly grueling winters (though we suspect they enjoyed the buzz too).
Fast forward a few centuries, and with the invention of whiskey came the epiphany that you can mix the two together. Enter: whiskey apple cider to warm your bones and your soul.
Not sure how to make it? We've pulled together 10 whiskey apple cider recipes to help you feel a little more spirited this fall.
The Classic
Credit: A Couple of Cooks
You don't need a background in mixology or even a bunch of ingredients to pull together a quick (and seriously delicious) spiked cider. This simple recipe calls for just four items and can be dressed up with other festive garnishes like cinnamon sticks or apple slices if you're feeling extra fancy.
Apple Cider Whiskey Sour
Credit: Herbs and Flour
If you're looking for something a little more involved, give this drink a try. The addition of homemade cinnamon simple syrup not only gives it an autumnal spin that pairs perfectly with a chilly night, but the extra DIY effort will definitely impress your friends.
Apple Cider Whiskey Smash from @kalejunkie
Credit: Kale Junkie
This recipe is perfect for those who love the taste of fresh apples. Muddled with pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and a hint of lemon, this one's like an alcoholic apple pie in a glass. Top it off with a few slices of freshly chopped apple to make it even more festive. Check out Kale Junkie's Instagram for more tasty recipes this season.
Sparkling Whiskey Apple Cider
Credit: Natalie Paramore
A little bit of bubbly always makes for a good time, right? Punch up your regular 'ole whiskey cider with this delightful combination of sparkling wine and smooth whiskey, and you'll enjoy happy hour all night long.
Apple Cider Old Fashioned
Credit: Completely Delicious
We can't talk about whiskey cider cocktails without mentioning the OG of mixed drinks—the classic Old Fashioned. Here, a splash of apple cider takes it to a whole new level, while Angostura bitters add an unexpected twist.
Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail
Credit: Fork in the Kitchen
This one's for all our bourbon fans. If you love the combo of apple cider and whiskey, you'll be head over heels for this next recipe. The lemon juice and homemade Autumn Spice Simple Syrup amp up the flavor profile even more, giving it a special je ne sais quoi that we can't get enough of.
Apple Cider Hot Toddy
Credit: The Cookie Rookie
Nothing says fall like a hot toddy—especially when you make it an apple cider hot toddy. This drink is as classic and cozy as they come, with a warm, honey-forward taste you won't be able to get enough of.
Apple Cider Whiskey Punch
Credit: Bread, Booze, Bacon
If you need to whip up a big batch of cocktails for a crowd, this is the one. Making it in advance gives all the ingredients plenty of time to mix and muddle together for an unforgettable flavor combination. And the fall fruit topping makes it look as good as it tastes.
Maple Bourbon Apple Cider
Credit: Self Proclaimed Foodie
Indulge your sweet side with this dreamy fall cocktail. As versatile as they come, you can serve it both hot and cold depending on the temperature outside. And if you're feeling extra festive, add some pumpkin spice rimming sugar to take it over the top.
Apple Cider Irish Mule
Credit: Fox and Briar
Easily one of the most unexpected whiskey cider combos, a traditional Moscow mule gets a fall spin with the addition of apple cider. Mix traditional whiskey cider ingredients with some ginger beer to give it a kick, and you've got yourself the perfect autumn evening in a glass.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your favorite bottle of whiskey and make the most of these cooler temps by mixing up one (or all) of these delicious whiskey apple cider recipes.
