Who says you can’t have the taste of apple pie in a fun, unique cocktail? Apple Pie on the Rocks combines the classic flavors of warm, spiced apple pie with a smooth, chilled cocktail vibe. It’s comforting, cozy, and perfect for a crisp fall evening or a creative twist on your usual cocktail hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

It combines the nostalgia of homemade apple pie with your favorite spirits.
Perfectly spiced and irresistibly smooth.
Quick to make with just a few ingredients.
A unique drink option for brunches, parties, or after-dinner sipping.

Ingredients

Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll need. Full measurements and instructions are in the recipe card below.

Apple cider
Vanilla vodka or spiced rum
Apple pie spice
Brown sugar
Ice cubes
Optional: Whipped cream or a cinnamon stick for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Glass
Fill a rocks glass with ice cubes to chill.
Mix the Base
In a shaker, combine apple cider, vanilla vodka (or spiced rum), brown sugar, and a pinch of apple pie spice. Shake well until fully combined.
Pour & Serve
Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over the ice.
Garnish
Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of additional apple pie spice, or add a cinnamon stick for that extra cozy vibe.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use Quality Apple Cider: A fresh, natural apple cider will give this cocktail its irresistible flavor.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you like it less sweet, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
Chill the Ingredients: For an ultra-refreshing cocktail, chill the apple cider beforehand.
Add a Twist: A splash of butterscotch schnapps can take the apple pie flavors to the next level.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Make it Non-Alcoholic: Swap vodka/rum for a splash of sparkling water or additional apple cider.
Hard Apple Cider Swap: Use hard cider for a tangier, beer-like note.
Caramel Apple Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce into the glass for a sweet caramel apple vibe.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Pair this with cozy snacks like:

Warm cinnamon rolls.
A slice of homemade apple pie.
A cheese plate with sharp cheddar to balance out the sweetness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Apple Pie on the Rocks is meant to be served fresh. Don’t store leftovers.
Reheating: Not applicable unless you want to heat the apple cider before mixing (for a warm cocktail twist).

FAQs

What kind of vodka should I use?
Vanilla vodka pairs wonderfully with this cocktail, but spiced rum is another great choice if you prefer.

Can I make this in large batches?
Yes! Scale up the ingredients for a pitcher if you’re hosting a gathering.

Can I use store-bought apple juice instead of cider?
Yes, but apple cider is a better choice for that deeper, spiced flavor.

Is this cocktail kid-friendly?
You can leave out the alcohol entirely and have a cozy, apple cider mocktail that the whole family can enjoy.

Conclusion

Apple Pie on the Rocks is the perfect way to celebrate the cozy, comforting flavors of apple pie without having to bake. Smooth, spiced, and oh-so-refreshing, this cocktail is perfect for gatherings, brunches, or just when you’re in need of a little extra comfort. Cheers!

Apple Pie on the Rocks

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Author: Maria
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
Category: Dessert Cocktail
Method: Shaking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A cozy cocktail that tastes just like freshly baked apple pie in liquid form. This seasonal favorite combines smooth vanilla vodka with real apple cider and warm spices, creating a nostalgic drinking experience that’s perfect for autumn entertaining.

Instructions

Mix graham cracker crumbs with cinnamon sugar on a small plate.
Rim a rocks glass with caramel sauce, then dip in the graham cracker mixture.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
Add vanilla vodka, apple cider, caramel sauce, cinnamon schnapps, and lemon juice.
Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
Fill the prepared rocks glass with fresh ice.
Strain the mixture into the glass.
Drizzle with additional caramel sauce.
Garnish with apple slice and cinnamon stick.
Optional: Top with a float of whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon.

Notes

Use fresh apple cider (not apple juice) for best results
Warm the caramel sauce slightly for easier mixing
Can be served either cold or warm
For a warm version, heat apple cider before mixing
Non-alcoholic version: Use apple cider, caramel, vanilla extract, and cinnamon syrup
Make ahead: Mix liquid ingredients (except garnishes) up to 24 hours in advance
The rim mixture can be stored in an airtight container for multiple uses

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cocktail
Calories: 275
Sugar: 32g
Sodium: 85mg