Apple Butter Bourbon Smash

As the air turns crisp and leaves drift down in a blaze of amber and red, there’s no better way to embrace the season than with a cozy cocktail. This Apple Butter Bourbon Smash is a smooth blend of whiskey, apple cider, and a dollop of rich, real apple butter that brings in those irresistible fall flavors. With a touch of cinnamon and a burst of fresh lemon juice, every sip is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. 

Inspired by the flavors of classic apple pie and the comforting allure of bourbon, this drink is for anyone who loves apple season as much as they love a good, cozy cocktail.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple bourbon cocktail hits all the right notes for fall. It's spicy, sweet, and just a little bit tart, thanks to the fresh lemon juice and crisp apple cider. The apple butter adds a smooth, velvety sweetness, while the cinnamon stick garnish and Fireball Whiskey bring a spicy holiday kick that feels festive and warm. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up that you’ll have more time to cozy up and enjoy it!

If you’re craving a fall cocktail that captures all the best parts of the season, this is the perfect cocktail for you.

Equipment List

• Cocktail shaker: Essential for blending the flavors and creating a smooth, well-mixed drink.
• Old-fashioned glass (rocks glass): The perfect size and weight for serving this cozy cocktail.
• Ice cube or ice ball: Keeps the drink cold without watering it down too quickly, ideal for sipping.
• Fine Mesh Strainer: Ensures a smooth pour, keeping out any bits of apple butter.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Recipe

• Makers Mark Whiskey: Smooth and rich, this bourbon adds depth to the cocktail.
• Fireball Whiskey: For that spicy cinnamon kick that warms the drink.
• Dr. McGillicuddy's Apple Pie Liqueur: Adds a sweet, apple pie flavor.
• Apple butter: The star ingredient! Adds smoothness and autumn warmth.
• Fresh lemon juice: Balances the sweetness and gives a hint of tartness.
• Apple cider: Sweet and crisp, a true taste of fall.
• Apple slice (for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright note to the presentation.
• Cinnamon stick (for garnish): Completes the look and adds a little extra spice.

How to Make Apple Butter Bourbon Smash

• Combine ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, mix together the apple cider, Maker’s Mark Whiskey, Fireball Whiskey, Dr. McGillicuddy's Apple Pie Liqueur, apple butter, and fresh lemon juice.

• Shake it up: Give the mixture a good shake to fully blend all those rich flavors.

• Serve: Place an ice ball or a few large ice cubes in an old-fashioned glass, then strain the cocktail over the ice.

• Garnish: Top it off with a slice of fresh apple and a cinnamon stick for a festive look and aroma.

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Chef Secrets & Tips

• Use real apple butter: For the best flavor, skip the overly processed stuff and go for real apple butter. The thick, rich texture will blend beautifully.
• Chill the glass: For an extra-special touch, chill your glass before pouring in the cocktail. This keeps the drink cold longer without needing too much ice.
• Experiment with bitters: Try adding a dash of orange bitters to bring out the bourbon’s depth and add a citrusy zing to the drink.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Apple Butter Bourbon Smash with my Savory Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms or Balsamic Kettle Chips with Blue Cheese!

For a sweeter pairing, try a slice of my best Pecan Pie or my Pumpkin Dump Cake for a true Southern-inspired treat that complements the rich, warming flavors in this drink.

Commonly Asked Questions

• Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?
  Absolutely! Mix the ingredients (except the apple butter) a few hours before serving and keep it chilled. Add the apple butter and shake it up just before serving to keep the texture smooth.

• Can I substitute the apple pie liqueur?
  If you can’t find Dr. McGillicuddy’s, try a splash of another apple-flavored liqueur or even a hint of cinnamon schnapps to keep that apple-cinnamon flavor strong.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?
  Yes! All the ingredients in this cocktail are gluten-free, but it’s always best to check each label to be sure.

Storage Tips

Since this drink is best enjoyed fresh, there’s no need to store it for later. However, if you’d like to batch-make the base (without the ice), it’ll keep well in the fridge for up to two days. Just shake it with ice when you’re ready to serve, and don’t forget the apple butter for that final cozy touch!

This Apple Butter Bourbon Smash is more than just a drink—it’s a celebration of everything we love about fall, from the spicy warmth of cinnamon to the sweet, crisp taste of fresh apples. So go on, raise a glass, and toast to apple season!

More Cool Weather Cocktail Favorites

• Apple Cider Mule
• Hot Buttered Rum
• Irish Coffee
• Whiskey Sour