Caramel Apple Boozy Cider

It that time of year again- Apple Cider season!! I’ve been walking by apple cider displayed at Whole Foods for weeks now, and I couldn’t resist any longer! The local Honeycrisp Apples were a perfect addition to garnish the drinks.

In this recipe, I used apple cider from a local company, Big B’s. Their cider is actually cold pressed, which means that it is pasteurized through UV filtering, rather than with heat used in traditional pasteurization. This preserves the flavor and nutrients, and it tastes just like raw apple cider to me.

I wanted to add a caramel flavor to this cocktail, so I made an experimental simple syrup with brown sugar. I think it turned out really well, and I will definitely be making more brown sugar syrups in the future. It has a really rich flavor, and I think it adds a really unique component to the cocktail.

Caramel Cider Simple Syrup

This recipe will make enough simple syrup for 2-3 cocktails. This mixture can also be made in larger quantities for additional cocktails, and can be kept in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar
• 1/2 cup Cold Pressed Apple Cider
• A sprinkle of cinnamon to taste

Instructions

1. Add ingredients to a small saucepan, and bring to a boil, stirring every few minutes
2. Once sugar dissolves, turn heat to low. Allow to simmer for 8-10 minutes until mixture becomes thick
3. Remove from heat, and cool before using

Caramel Apple Boozy Cider

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Vodka
• 4 tablespoons of Cold Pressed Apple Cider
• 2-3 tablespoons Caramel-Cider Simple Syrup (to taste. Recipe above)
• Apple slice to garnish
• Brown sugar to garnish

Instructions

1. Using a few drops of the simple syrup, rim the glass, and then dip in brown sugar
2. Combine vodka, apple cider, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake for 30 seconds or so
3. Strain mixture into rimmed glass. Add an apple slice to glass

Bottoms up around a bonfire!

I hope you enjoy this fun fall recipe!