As we turn to fall, my mind turns to comforting fall cocktails. Let me paint the picture, the sun is setting, and there is a coolness to the air. The fire is roaring in the outdoor fireplace, and the leaves are a golden color on the trees. I’m snuggled under a blanket with the perfect cocktail in my hand. But what is that cocktail? Tonight, it’s an Apple Cider Old Fashioned.

What You Need To Make An Apple Cider Old Fashioned Cocktail

Fresh Apple Cider: Apple cider is a raw, unfiltered, unsweetened beverage made from the juice of pressed apples.
Bourbon: Look for a good quality bourbon, but you don’t have to go for the top of the line (I would not use those in a mixed drink; they are made for sipping straight).
Pure Maple Syrup: You want pure maple, not pancake syrup. They are not the same; pure maple syrup is just that, pure, with no additives. Pancake syrup is corn syrup with maple flavor added.
Bitters: Bitters are spirits infused with botanicals (herbs and spices) that are used to flavor cocktails. For this cocktail, I would suggest Angostura bitters, which are the most common bitters. It is bitter and spicy, with hints of clove and cinnamon, perfect with the apple cider.

Step-By-Step Guide

Really, this cocktail doesn’t require a lot of steps. Basically, you can break it down into two.

Step 1: In a low cocktail glass or a double old-fashioned glass, stir together the bourbon, cider, syrup, and bitters until combined.
Step 2: Add a large ice cube and garnish with an apple slice, orange slice, or cinnamon stick (or you can do all three).

The final step is to enjoy!

Looking for other bourbon cocktail recipes? Check out these posts on Fork Loves Spoon: