Can I use rye whiskey instead of bourbon?

Absolutely! Rye whiskey will give the cocktail a spicier, drier edge when compared to the smoother, sweeter notes of bourbon. Try it both ways and see which you prefer.

What type of apple works best for the garnish and muddling?

Crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best. They offer a nice balance to the bourbon’s warmth and don’t get mushy when muddled.

Can I make an alcohol-free version?

Yes! Substitute a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative or use strong-brewed apple tea in place of the bourbon. You’ll still get the cozy apple and spice flavors.

Should I use fresh or bottled apple cider?

Fresh apple cider (not juice) is best for authentic flavor, but high-quality bottled cider works in a pinch. Avoid apple juice, which is often too sweet and lacks depth.

Apple Old Fashioned

Name: Apple Old Fashioned
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 2 oz Bourbon; 0.75 oz Apple cider; 0.25 oz Simple syrup; 2 dashes Angostura bitters; 1 piece Apple slice; 1 piece Cinnamon stick

The Apple Old Fashioned is a seasonal twist on the classic Old Fashioned, marrying the warmth of bourbon with the crisp, slightly tart sweetness of fresh apple. This cocktail is perfect for autumn evenings or anytime you crave a comforting, fruit-forward sipper. It’s simple to craft, beautiful in the glass, and a delight to drink.

5 minutesEasy1 serving

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Ingredients

1 serving

Bourbon
60 ml (2 oz)
Choose a robust, high-quality bourbon for best results.
Apple cider
25 ml (0.75 oz)
Fresh, unfiltered apple cider is preferred.
Simple syrup
10 ml (0.25 oz)
Adjust to taste; can substitute maple syrup for extra depth.
Angostura bitters
2 dashes
Essential for classic Old Fashioned flavor.
Apple slice
1 piece
For muddling and garnish.
Cinnamon stick
1 piece
For garnish; optional but highly recommended.

Tools Needed

Mixing glass
Bar spoon
Jigger
Strainer
Peeler (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Add a slice of fresh apple and simple syrup to a mixing glass. Lightly muddle to release the apple’s flavor.
Add bourbon, apple cider, and Angostura bitters to the glass.
Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 20 seconds, or until well chilled.
Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
Garnish with a fresh apple slice and a cinnamon stick—twist the cinnamon stick gently to release its aroma.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail

A comforting blend of bourbon and apple, ideal for fall.
Easy to make with just a few ingredients.
A crowd-pleaser for both whiskey lovers and those new to the spirit.
Beautifully aromatic thanks to apple slices and cinnamon.
Perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and spirit-forward character.

History & Origin

The Old Fashioned is one of America’s oldest cocktails, dating back to the early 19th century. Over the years, bartenders have adapted its foundational formula—spirit, sugar, bitters, and citrus—to include a variety of flavors. The Apple Old Fashioned likely found its roots in the trend of infusing classic drinks with fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Apple, being a symbol of fall and harvest, adds both a modern and nostalgic touch, making this version a beloved update for those who enjoy the classics with a twist.

Garnish

A crisp apple slice and a cinnamon stick. The apple slice adds a visual cue and a hint of fresh aroma, while the cinnamon stick brings a warm, inviting spice to each sip.

Nutrition Info

Approximately 160 calories per serving, with 9g carbohydrates (mainly from apple cider and syrup), 0g fat, and 0g protein. Alcohol content depends on the bourbon used (about 1.5 standard drinks).

Frequently Asked Questions

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