Looking for the perfect autumn drink? This Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail recipe with smooth bourbon, apple cider, and a hint of caramel has all the flavors of fall.

Apple cider bourbon cocktail garnished with apple slice and cinnamon stick next to apple half, lemon wedge and cream towel.

The combination of caramel apple cider and honey bourbon makes this cocktail extra special With a squeeze of lemon and a cinnamon stick and apple slice garnish it's the perfect fall drink for game day, a Halloween party, Thanksgiving or any get-together.

Ingredients you'll need

Just a few simple ingredients come together to make this easy cocktail.

Jim Beam Honey, apple cider, apple, rocks glass and lemon.

Caramel apple cider - Adds sweet apple flavor with a touch of caramel richness. Substitute plain apple cider and a splash of caramel coffee syrup if you'd like.
Honey bourbon - Smooth and slightly sweet with notes of honey, caramel and vanilla, it pairs beautifully with the cider. You can also sub regular bourbon and add a little simple syrup.
Fresh lemon juice - A splash of citrus keeps the cocktail balanced and bright. Fresh-squeezed tastes much better than bottled!
Ice cubes - For shaking the drink until perfectly chilled.
Apple slice - A fresh garnish ties it all together. Rub the apple slice with lemon to keep it from browning.
Cinnamon stick - Adds a warm spice finish and doubles as a stir stick.

Equipment

Just a couple of bar tools will make mixing cocktails easier.

Cocktail shaker - For mixing and chilling the drink.
Measuring shot glass - Helpful for measuring out the the ingredients in ounces.
Old fashioned whiskey glass - A rocks glass is the classic way to serve it.

Pouring drink from shaker to glass filled with ice.

How to make bourbon apple cider

This cocktail comes together in just a few easy steps.

Add apple cider, bourbon, lemon juice, and ice to a cocktail shaker. Shake until well chilled.
Fill your glass with fresh ice. Strain the drink into the glass.
Garnish with an apple slice and cinnamon stick, if desired.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun twists you can try.

Spiced cider - Use spiced apple cider for even more fall flavor.
Maple syrup - Swap in a splash of maple syrup and use plain fresh cider instead of caramel for a different sweet twist.
Sparkling cider - Top with a splash of sparkling cider or ginger ale for a bubbly version.

More Apple Cider Cocktails

If you're in the mood for more seasonal sips, here are a few to try next.

Caramel Vodka Apple Cider Cocktail - Sweet caramel vodka and apple cider come together in this easy fall drink. It's smooth, crisp, and always a favorite.

Apple Cider Margarita - A festive twist on the classic margarita, this version swaps in apple cider for a fall-inspired cocktail that's tangy and refreshing.

Apple Cider Mimosa - Perfect for brunch or holiday mornings, this bubbly cocktail combines apple cider with sparkling wine for a light, festive drink.