From the onset of fall to the lingering chilly weather of spring, our hot bourbon apple cider recipe will warm you right up, especially on the days you feel chilled right down to the bone. You can be as generous with the ingredients as you like—just don’t skimp on the bourbon!
Our first choice is apple cider, but since it’s not always available, regular apple juice will also work. We used agave or honey as a natural sweetener, then we selected a honey-flavored bourbon to keep the results smooth. Honey bourbon is just a smidge gentler than the regular variety for us sissies in the test kitchen.
As if a hot bourbon apple cider on a chilly evening isn’t satisfactory enough, your house will smell amazing once you warm the cider on the stove. This recipe is the perfect cocktail to bring people together in a nice, cozy atmosphere.
Hot Bourbon Apple Cider Recipe
- 10 oz apple cider, or apple juice
- 4 oz honey bourbon
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 2 Tbsp agave, or honey
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- cinnamon sticks
- star anise
- Place cider, apple slices, agave and cinnamon in a saucepan then bring to a boil. Let simmer for 5 minutes to release the flavors. Add 2 cinnamon sticks and 2 pieces of star anise then let simmer for 1 minute longer.
- Strain mixture into mugs then add bourbon. Garnish with fresh apple slices, cinnamon sticks and star anise, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cloves and nutmeg are also great spices to add to this recipe!
