Cider Maple Smash Cocktail Recipe

The Cider Maple Smash combines the warmth of bourbon, the sweetness of pure maple syrup, and the refreshing tartness of apple cider. It’s a tasty blend that’s perfect for sipping on a chilly evening or serving at your next fall gathering.

This drink is a celebration of fall with its rich, comforting flavors and festive presentation.

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Key Ingredients

The Warmth of Bourbon

At the base of the Cider Maple Smash is bourbon, which is adds a warm and robust foundation to the drink. Bourbon is known for its sweet undertones, often featuring notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.

The Sweetness of Pure Maple Syrup

Maple syrup introduces a natural sweetness that has unique earthy undertones that enhance the cocktail’s complexity.

The Brightness of Apple Cider

Apple cider‘s sweet-tart characteristics are reminiscent of freshly picked apples, providing a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the bourbon and the sweetness of the maple syrup. The cider adds a crispness keeps the drink refreshing.

You can opt for either sweet or spiced cider. Spiced cider introduces warm notes of cinnamon and clove, while sweeter ciders enhance the overall fruitiness.

The Zest of Lemon Juice

This zesty component provides a refreshing lift to the cocktail, preventing it from becoming overly sweet.

Herbal Undertones from Thyme

The final touch to the Cider Maple Smash comes from fresh thyme sprigs used as a garnish. It adds a peppery, herbal aroma. You can substitute rosemary and other savory herbs.

Serving the Cider Maple Smash with Delicious Fall Fare

If you’re planning a party – or just a nice meal to go with your cocktail, there are lots of options:

The Cider Maple Smash pairs beautifully with roasted meats, such as pork tenderloin or turkey. It’s also a natural fit for dishes featuring autumnal spices, like cinnamon-rubbed pork chops or maple-glazed ham.

It also complements roasted autumn root vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips, which will amplify the natural sweetness of the cocktail. And for dessert, try a slice of warm apple pie, a pumpkin cheesecake, or a decadent maple-pecan tart.

Variations on the Cider Maple Smash

Feel free to put your own spin on this autumnal cocktail to suit your personal preferences or the occasion.

Spiced Cider Maple Smash

For a slightly more complex flavor profile, try adding a dash of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the cocktail. This will give the Cider Maple Smash a warm, aromatic quality that perfectly captures the essence of fall.

You can also garnish the drink with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of ground spices for an extra touch of seasonal flair.

Cider Maple Smash Mocktail

If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, you can simply leave out the bourbon and increase the amount of apple cider to 4-5 ounces. You can also experiment with adding a splash of sparkling water or ginger ale for a refreshing effervescence.

Cider Maple Smash Sangria

For a larger-batch option that’s perfect for entertaining, you can turn the Cider Maple Smash into a seasonal sangria. Start with a dry red wine as your base, then add the apple cider, maple syrup, and lemon juice.

Allow the mixture to chill and meld together for at least 30 minutes before serving over ice and garnishing with fresh apple slices and thyme sprigs.

 

 

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