Prep the rim: Mix 1 tablespoon sugar with 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. Add a pinch of coarse salt if you want a sweet-salty balance. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip and twist it in the mixture to coat.

Chill the glass: Add a few ice cubes to the rimmed glass while you make the drink, or pop it in the freezer for a few minutes. A cold glass keeps the flavors crisp.

Shake the cocktail: In a shaker, combine tequila, orange liqueur, apple cider, and fresh lime juice. Add maple syrup if you prefer a slightly sweeter sip. Fill the shaker with ice.

Shake hard: Shake for 15 seconds until the shaker is frosty. You’re chilling, diluting slightly, and blending the flavors.

Serve: Discard the ice from the glass. Add fresh ice (big cubes if you have them), then strain the cocktail over the top.

Garnish: Add a thin apple slice, a lime wheel, or a cinnamon stick. Keep it simple; the rim is already doing a lot.

Taste and adjust: If it’s too tart, stir in a splash more cider or a touch more syrup. If it’s too sweet, add a squeeze of lime.