Description

The Cinnamon Apple Bourbon Smash is a cozy, flavorful cocktail featuring a spicy cinnamon syrup infused with maple, ginger, and cayenne, combined with bourbon, fresh citrus, apple butter, and orange bitters. Topped with ginger beer and garnished with apple slices and pomegranate arils, this drink delivers a perfect balance of warmth, spice, and fruity sweetness, ideal for festive gatherings or chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Scale

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
Apple slices, for garnish
Pomegranate arils, for garnish
Cinnamon sticks, for garnish

Mocktail Variation

1/4 cup apple cider
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Make the Spicy Cinnamon Syrup: In a medium pot, combine 1/2 cup water, maple syrup, cinnamon sticks, and sliced fresh ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat. Stir in the cayenne pepper and allow the syrup to cool. Once cooled, strain it into a glass jar. This batch makes enough syrup for about six drinks.
Prepare the Cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine 1 to 2 tablespoons of the spicy cinnamon syrup, bourbon, lemon or grapefruit juice, apple butter, and orange bitters. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously to blend and chill the mixture. Strain the contents into a serving glass.
Finish and Garnish: Top the cocktail with ginger beer to add fizzy brightness. Garnish with fresh apple slices, pomegranate arils, and a cinnamon stick. For an extra smoky presentation, carefully ignite the cinnamon stick before serving.
Mocktail Option: To make a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon. Instead, combine 1/4 cup apple cider with 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract along with the other ingredients, then shake with ice and top with ginger beer as usual.

Notes

The spicy cinnamon syrup can be stored refrigerated for up to two weeks, making it convenient for multiple drinks.
Using fresh ginger in the syrup adds a nice warming kick; adjust cayenne pepper to taste for desired heat level.
The mocktail version offers a similarly complex flavor without alcohol, perfect for all ages.
Lighting the cinnamon stick is optional but adds a beautiful aromatic touch and dramatic presentation.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 drink (approx. 8 oz)
Calories: 210
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 10mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg