Can I make this apple cider cocktail ahead for parties?

Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it at least 2 hours ahead—the flavors mingle and improve as it chills. For holiday meal planning, mix everything (yes, including the bourbon) up to 3 days in advance. Just give it a good stir before serving.

What's the best spirit besides bourbon?

Oh, let me count the ways! Dark rum creates a tropical fall punch vibe, while tequila gives it a smoky kick that’s surprisingly delicious with apple. For a cleaner taste, try vodka with an extra squeeze of lemon—perfect if you're serving a gluten-free crowd.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep it in a sealed pitcher in the fridge for up to 4 days. The citrus flavors fade after day two though—just add a fresh splash of orange juice to perk it back up. Pro tip: Freeze leftover cider in ice cube trays to use later in mulled wine or holiday cocktails!

Can kids enjoy this too?

Of course! Set aside a non-alcoholic batch before adding spirits—just boost the maple syrup to 2 tbsp and add a dash of vanilla extract. Serve in tiny mugs with cinnamon stick “straws” for adorable kid-approved sips.

5-Minute Apple Cider Cocktail

Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail

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A simple fall drink that mixes apple cider with bourbon for a crowd-pleasing pitcher cocktail.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 0 min
Total Time: 1 hr 5 min
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Drinks
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups apple cider
1 cup bourbon
1/2 cup orange juice
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp maple syrup
Cinnamon sticks for garnish

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Instructions

In a pitcher, combine apple cider, bourbon, orange juice, lemon juice, and maple syrup.
Stir well and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Serve over ice with a cinnamon stick garnish.

Notes

For a hot version, warm the mixture on low heat before serving.
Replace bourbon with rum or tequila for variation.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 180
Sugar: 18
Sodium: 10
Fat: 0
Saturated Fat: 0
Unsaturated Fat: 0
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 22
Fiber: 0
Protein: 0
Cholesterol: 0

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/apple-cider-cocktail-recipe/