Fall has arrived, which means it’s officially cocktail season! What better way to celebrate sweater weather than by shaking up an Old Fashioned Autumn?
Don’t be fooled by how simple this Old Fashioned Autumn is—your guests will think you’re a mixology wizard! The secret? Apple Cider Syrup (see recipe below), which adds cozy, spiced layers of flavor (no one has to know it’s only two ingredients). It’s the perfect shortcut for your Halloween bash or Thanksgiving feast. Don’t forget the apple slice garnish—cut it horizontally to reveal that magical star in the center. Seriously, who could say no to a bourbon apple cider cocktail?
Fun Fact: My love for Halloween is legendary. Case in point: I get Halloween gifts for my summer birthday. This year, my mom and sister surprised me with these adorable cat glasses. If you need proof of my obsession, just scroll through my Instagram and TikTok feeds—October is basically my Super Bowl.
Recipe (1 serving)
3 parts Bourbon
1 part Apple Cider Syrup (Recipe Below)
- Add your ingredients to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously until fully emulsified.
- Strain your drink and serve chilled coupe.
- Garnish with a thin apple slice (cut horizontally to show the star in the middle).
Bourbon I used: Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
Apple Cider Syrup Recipe:
- Pour 1 gallon of apple cider and 2 cups of sugar into a large pot and stir until the sugar dissolves. Set the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently. Continue simmering until the liquid has reduced to about one-quarter of its original volume—this will take about 2 hours. It’s important to stay nearby and check in occasionally, stirring now and then, so the syrup doesn’t scorch. Set a timer as a reminder if you’re multitasking!
- You’ll know your syrup is ready when it turns a rich, golden-brown color. Remove the pot from the heat and let the syrup cool, covering it with a lid. Cooling may take some time, but it’s worth the wait!
- Once your syrup has cooled, pour it into your airtight containers. I really like these bottles because they make it easy to pour when you’re ready to use the syrup. If stored in the refrigerator, it will stay good for months.
Snag these cute glass bottles to store your syrup.
Disclaimer: For my day job I’m a lawyer representing distilled spirits producers. The opinions I express are my own and not that of my employer. Drink Responsibly!
