When the chill of the holiday season sets in, there’s nothing quite like a cocktail that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. For me, that drink is the Apple Cider Old-Fashioned—a cozy, inviting twist on a classic that transforms simple ingredients into a festive experience. Inspired by Deb Perelman’s recipe from Smitten Kitchen Keepers, this cocktail starts with simmering apple cider, evolves into a luscious concentrate, and finishes with a splash of bourbon and bitters. It’s a crowd-pleaser that has become my seasonal staple, disappearing just as quickly as the giant cheese ball at any gathering.
Why This Cocktail Has Stolen My Heart
What makes this recipe a keeper isn’t just the rich, comforting flavor, but the way it effortlessly fits into the holiday rhythm:
- Batch-friendly: It serves six easily and doubles up perfectly for larger crowds, so you’re never left scrambling for more.
- Make-ahead magic: You can prepare the cider concentrate up to a month in advance, making party prep a breeze.
- Taste of autumn: It captures the essence of a crisp fall visit to a cider mill — that perfect blend of sweetness and spice.
- Versatile: The cider concentrate is great for mocktails too—just add sparkling water for friends and family who skip the alcohol.
- Universal appeal: Every single person I’ve served it to has swooned, which is no small feat!
The Ritual of Serving
Part of the charm is how you serve it. I’m a sucker for vintage holiday glassware, often found at garage sales or thrift stores. There’s something about sipping from those old-fashioned glasses that elevates the whole experience—making the cocktail feel like a treasured tradition rather than just a drink.
Elevating the Flavor
If the cider you find at your local grocery store feels a little flat, don’t hesitate to boost it up with additions. Cinnamon sticks, star anise, or orange peel all bring depth and warmth. I’m currently obsessed with the new pumpkin pie spice blend from Burlap and Barrel, which adds a modern, cozy twist—think of it as pumpkin pie spice 2.0.
As for the spirit, bourbon is my go-to. Made from at least 51% corn, bourbon carries a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with apple cider. Its oak aging adds dessert-like notes of vanilla and caramel, wrapping around the spices with a gentle hug. If you prefer something bolder, rye whiskey—with its sharper, spicier profile—offers a more pronounced bite. For the brave and hearty, peat-smoked Scotch can add a smoky depth that puts some much-needed “hair on your chest,” as they say, and keeps you warm on cold winter nights.
The Recipe: Apple Cider Old-Fashioned
Ingredients:
- 1 quart (4 cups) apple cider, regular or spiced
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin or apple pie spice (optional, if cider isn’t spiced)
- 12 dashes orange or Angostura bitters (don’t skip this!)
- 2 cups rye or bourbon whiskey (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Apple slices or dried orange wheels, for garnish
How to Make It
Step 1: Make the cider concentrate
Pour the apple cider into a 3- to 4-quart saucepan and add your spice, if using. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it bubble away until it’s a bit darker in color and syrupy in texture, reducing to about two-thirds of a cup—roughly 25 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally, especially near the end, to avoid burning or over-reduction. The concentrate should be thick but pourable.
Step 2: Mix with whiskey and bitters
Allow the concentrate to cool to room temperature. Whisk in the bitters, then slowly drizzle in the whiskey, stirring to combine evenly. Taste and adjust by adding up to half a cup more whiskey if you prefer a stronger kick. Transfer this to a sealed container or carafe and chill thoroughly.
Step 3: Serve and enjoy
When ready to serve, fill an Old-Fashioned glass with one large ice cube or several smaller ones. Stir the cider concentrate in the carafe if it’s settled, then pour over the ice. Garnish with a thin slice of apple or a dried orange wheel, and raise a glass to the season.
Why This Cocktail Feels Like Home
The Apple Cider Old-Fashioned is more than just a drink; it’s a ritual that invites you to slow down and savor the moment. Its warming spices and rich notes feel like a hug from the inside out. Whether you’re hosting a cozy holiday party or unwinding after a busy day, it sets the tone for comfort and connection.
What’s Your Holiday Sip?
Do you have a favorite holiday drink? Maybe a creamy hot chocolate or a crisp icy wine? I’d love to hear what flavors define your festive season. For now, I’ll keep pouring my Apple Cider Old-Fashioned, enjoying every last drop of fall in a glass.
Cheers to good company, great drinks, and the little rituals that make holidays special.
