Pumpkin Spice is a lot of fun and does capture the spotlight for fall flavors. But don’t underestimate the apple. While it probably isn’t going to pair well in a latte or cold brew, apples capture the number one spot when it comes to cocktails. Apples do pair well with bourbon, gin, vodka, wine, and even champagne, and make a great foundation for many mixed drinks.

There is that old adage “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” and, in this case, one shouldn’t take any chances. This curious cook highly endorses adding an apple to your next cocktail for a refreshing, autumn-inspired libation, and if it helps ward off the sniffles so be it!

Apple cider is a fall favorite. Whether you are heading out to an apple orchard this fall or picking up a jug of fresh apple cider at your farmers market, keep plenty on hand to experiment with a whole new batch of apple-themed cocktail concoctions.

Bourbon Apple Cider takes apple cider up a notch or two–or three. Apple cider is a little more festive than apple juice. It has a stronger flavor that can hold its own in a cocktail. Pair with your favorite bourbon, some delicious cider from your local farmers market or apple orchard, a splash of orange juice, and garnish with a cinnamon stick, orange wheel, or an apple slice, This is sure to hit the spot, served over ice, this spiked apple cider is especially nice on days and evenings when the temperatures are still sizzling this fall.

Apple martinis or Appletinis are a fan favorite. They have been around for a while and mix tart apple flavors with vodka. But feel free to add your own curious twist to this old standby. These are typically made with tart, green apples, but with so many apple varieties out there, pick another variety. Try a Pink Lady or Cosmic apple for this concoction.

Adding a big splash of apple cider to a Moscow Mule just makes good sense–especially in a Kentucky Mule, which is made with, what else: bourbon! Adding apple cider transforms this immediately into a fall classic. It’s a simple drink, very simple to make, and extremely refreshing but pairs wonderfully with apples and cinnamon. Ginger beer and apples are a perfect combination of flavors. Even the copper mug it is served in looks fall-inspired. This may be one of my new favorites. Pick up a jug of apple cider and experiment.

Apple Cider Mimosas are simple to make and would be the perfect way to kick off a Thanksgiving brunch or any fall celebration. This cider drink is so tasty and the bubbles just make it special. Just replace orange juice for this simple recipe–or better yet do a combination of orange juice and apple cider. That sounds like a great, cozy variation on a good theme. You could even make it a Caramel Apple Mimosa by adding a splash of caramel sauce to the bubbly or rimming your glass in caramel sauce.

Changing up my summertime fave, Aperol Spritz, to a new, falltime fave an Apple Cider Spritz is a wonderful way to blend the seasons. I can be a little spritz-obsessed–especially at the beach. But what a fun way to bring the beach home as we usher in fall. Apple cider pairs wonderfully with prosecco and the slightly orange flavor of a Spritz. I can see us sitting on the front porch, listening to Friday Night Lights go down around the corner, sipping on this dreamy new cocktail. Use the standard Spritz recipe, and add a couple of ounces of apple cider, a dash or two of cinnamon, and an apple wedge to garnish.

And speaking of apples, In the Curious Kitchen Bourbon Apple Butter is a wonderful way to fall into fall. I know it would be a tasty addition to any apple-themed bourbon cocktail, too. Bourbon Apple Butter Old Fashioned sounds like it would hit the spot.

Cheers!

MK

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