These Apple Cider Bourbon Shots mix sweet apple cider with smooth bourbon for a fun and tasty drink. Perfect for chilly nights or cozy gatherings with friends!
Pour these little bursts of joy into shot glasses, and you’ll be the star of the party! I love serving them warm for an extra comfy vibe. Cheers! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Cider: Look for fresh, unfiltered apple cider for the best flavor. If you can’t find it, apple juice can work, but it won’t have the same depth. I prefer the spiced varieties for an extra kick!
Bourbon Whiskey: Any good bourbon will do! If bourbon isn’t available, try a rye whiskey for a spicier finish, or even a dark rum for a different twist.
Lemon Juice: The lemon juice adds a nice balance to the sweetness of the cider. If you want it sweeter, you can skip it. Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled works in a pinch!
Honey or Maple Syrup: These sweeteners enhance the flavors. You can make it vegan by using agave syrup instead of honey. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
How Do I Make Sure the Cinnamon Rimming Sticks?
Rimming the glasses with ground cinnamon boosts flavor and looks awesome! Here’s how to make it stick:
- Moisten the rim of the shot glass with a lemon wedge or just a bit of water.
- Dip the rim into a plate of ground cinnamon until it’s coated. You can mix in some sugar for a sweet twist if you’d like!
- Let it dry for a minute before pouring in the mixture. This will help it stay in place better.
Give your friends and guests a fun presentation with those cinnamon-rimmed glasses!
Apple Cider Bourbon Shots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a slight tartness)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes (optional)
- Apple slices or small apple chunks for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. If you’re chilling the shots, give it an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure they are nicely cooled. No lengthy wait times here, just quick and delicious fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or cocktail shaker, pour in the apple cider, bourbon, and lemon juice (if using). Add in the ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and your choice of honey or maple syrup. Give it a good stir or shake until everything is mixed well, and the honey has dissolved.
2. Chill If Desired:
If you like your shots cold, you can add ice cubes to the mixture and stir it again to chill it down. Just be careful not to water it down too much! Once chilled, strain out the ice before pouring the mixture into your shot glasses.
3. Rim the Shot Glasses:
If you want a fun twist, lightly rim your shot glasses with ground cinnamon. Simply moisten the edge with a lemon wedge or sprinkle of water, then dip into a small plate of ground cinnamon.
4. Serve the Shots:
Pour the apple cider bourbon mixture evenly into the rimmed shot glasses. For a final touch, sprinkle a little extra ground nutmeg on top and add a few apple chunks or slices for garnish.
5. Enjoy Responsibly!
Serve immediately, enjoy the festive spirit, and share the warmth with friends and family. These shots bring cozy flavors that everyone will love!
This recipe captures the essence of fall in a fun and flavorful way, perfect for parties or a cozy night in. Enjoy your Apple Cider Bourbon Shots!
Can I Use Store-Bought Apple Cider?
Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider is a convenient option and will still give you great flavor. Look for fresh, unfiltered cider if possible for the best taste!
How Can I Make These Shots Non-Alcoholic?
For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the bourbon with a mix of sparkling apple cider and a splash of vanilla extract for added depth. You can also use non-alcoholic whiskey alternatives for a very similar flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Mix?
If you have any leftover mix, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as some settling may occur.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
Yes! Feel free to adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to suit your taste. Start with a little and add more if you prefer a sweeter drink!