Cozy up this holiday season with the Apple Cider Martini, a chic and festive winter cocktail guaranteed to impress. With the crisp sparkle of apple cider, the warmth of vodka, and a hint of maple syrup, this drink captures all the magic of the season in one elegant sip. Whether hosting a Christmas party, a New Year’s gathering, or simply enjoying a quiet winter night, this cocktail is your go-to for holiday cheer.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Apple Cider Martini is everything you love about winter, wrapped in a refreshing cocktail. The sparkling apple cider adds a nice fizz that feels celebratory, while the smooth blend of vodka and maple syrup brings warmth and depth to every sip. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients, making it a go-to for holiday parties, Christmas dinners, or any festive gathering. Whether hosting friends and family or enjoying a romantic night in, this apple martini recipe is the perfect mix of cozy and classy.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to craft this flavorful, bubbly cocktail:
Sparkling Apple Cider (chilled): This adds a crisp, refreshing sweetness and effervescence to the martini, making it feel festive and bright. The apple flavor ties the cocktail to the holiday season.
Vodka: A neutral spirit that provides a smooth and clean base, allowing the other flavors to shine.
Triple Sec: A citrusy orange liqueur that adds a hint of brightness and balances the sweetness of the cider and maple syrup.
Lemon Juice: The tartness of lemon juice cuts through the sweetness and creates a balanced flavor profile, ensuring the cocktail isn’t overly sugary.
Maple Syrup: A subtle touch of maple syrup adds depth and warmth to the drink, enhancing its cozy, wintery vibe.
Apple Slices (for garnish): Beyond being visually stunning, the fresh apple slice reinforces the apple-forward theme and adds a crisp aroma.
Cinnamon Sticks (for garnish): The cinnamon stick brings a warm, spicy aroma to the drink, perfectly complementing the flavors and creating a festive presentation.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Making an apple cider martini recipe is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a stunning cocktail every time:
1. Measure out and combine vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and maple syrup in a shaker.
2. Add a couple of ice cubes, secure the lid, and shake well.
3. Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
4. Top with 2 oz of chilled sparkling apple cider.
5. Garnish with a crisp apple slice and a cinnamon stick for a picture-perfect finish.
Expert Tips
- Chill your ingredients: Make sure the sparkling apple cider and vodka are well chilled before mixing. This keeps the martini crisp and refreshing.
- Customize your sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup to suit your taste. If you like it sweeter, add more or reduce it to a less sweet drink.
- Garnish like a pro: Use fresh, thinly sliced apples for a crisp garnish, and select cinnamon sticks with a nice curve for an elegant look.
- Experiment with flavors: Try swapping regular vodka for apple-flavored or caramel-flavored vodka for a fun, seasonal variation.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this Apple Cider Martini ahead of time?
Mixing this cocktail fresh for optimal fizz from the sparkling cider is best. However, you can combine the vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and maple syrup beforehand. Store the mixture in the fridge, shake it with ice, and top it with cider before serving.
What can I use as a non-alcoholic alternative?
Substitute the vodka and triple sec with equal parts sparkling water or ginger ale for a delightful mocktail.
What’s the best type of apple cider to use?
Go for a sparkling apple cider with a crisp, clean flavor. Avoid overly sweet ciders, as they might overpower the drink.
Can I add a cinnamon-sugar rim?
Absolutely! Lightly wet the edge of your glass with lemon juice and dip it into a mix of cinnamon and sugar for a festive touch.
Is this cocktail gluten-free?
Yes, this cocktail is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free vodka.
Can I make this in a large punch-style batch?
Yes, you can easily scale up this recipe for a party-sized punch! Combine the vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and maple syrup in a large pitcher or punch bowl. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve. Just before serving, add the chilled sparkling apple cider and stir gently to retain the fizz. Provide glasses with ice and garnish options like apple slices and cinnamon sticks for guests to assemble their perfect drink. The other options would be to fill a punch bowl with vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, maple syrup, and apple slices. Then, serve a bottle of chilled sparkling apple cider with cinnamon sticks on the side.
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📖 Recipe
Apple Cider Martini
Equipment
- 1 Martini Shaker Set w/ Jigger
Ingredients
- 2 Oz Sparkling Apple Cider
- 1.5 Oz Vodka
- 0.5 Oz Triple Sec
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup
- 1 Apple Slice For Garnish
- 1 Cinnamon Stick For Garnish
Instructions
- Measure out and combine vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and maple syrup in a shaker.
- Add a couple of ice cubes, secure the lid, and shake well.
- Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
- Top with 2 oz of chilled sparkling apple cider.
- Garnish with a crisp apple slice and a cinnamon stick for a picture-perfect finish.
Notes
- Chill your ingredients: Make sure the sparkling apple cider and vodka are well chilled before mixing. This keeps the martini crisp and refreshing.
- Customize your sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup to suit your taste. If you like it sweeter, add more or reduce it to a less sweet drink.
- Garnish like a pro: Use fresh, thinly sliced apples for a crisp garnish, and select cinnamon sticks with a nice curve for an elegant look.
- Experiment with flavors: Try swapping regular vodka for apple-flavored or caramel-flavored vodka for a fun, seasonal variation.
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