Orchard Ember – Apple Cidar Bourbon Cocktail
Servings Prep Time
1cocktail 5minutes
Servings Prep Time
1cocktail 5minutes
Ingredients
Instructions
  1. Add bourbon, spiced apple cider, lemon juice, maple syrup, and ginger bitters to a shaker with ice.
  2. Shake for 10 seconds or until well chilled.
  3. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
  4. Lightly torch the apple slice until the edges caramelize.
  5. Warm the end of the cinnamon stick with the torch and set it beside the apple slice so it gently releases aroma.
  6. Place the garnish on the drink and serve immediately.
Recipe Notes

 

Additional Variations

Warm Orchard Ember (Hot Version)

Turn the cocktail into a cozy winter warmer.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz bourbon

  • 3 oz warm spiced apple cider

  • 0.25 oz maple syrup

  • Small squeeze of lemon

  • Optional: tiny pinch of ground ginger or a slice of fresh ginger simmered in the cider

Directions

  1. Warm the apple cider on the stove or in a mug until steaming but not boiling.

  2. Stir in the maple syrup and lemon.

  3. Add bourbon and stir gently.

  4. Garnish with a brûléed apple slice or floating cinnamon stick.

This version drinks like a refined hot toddy with richer fall notes.

Orchard Ember Party Batch (Serves 10 to 12)

Perfect for tailgates, Thanksgiving gatherings, or fall parties.

Batch Ingredients

  • 20 oz bourbon

  • 20 oz spiced apple cider

  • 6 oz lemon juice

  • 6 oz maple syrup

  • 10 to 12 dashes ginger bitters

Batch Directions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher or punch bowl.

  2. Stir well and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

  3. Serve over ice.

  4. Prepare a platter of apple slices and cinnamon sticks for guests to add themselves.

  5. For extra flair, brûlée several apple slices in advance.

This batch serves beautifully with a large clear ice block or sphere.