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Sparkling Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail - Crisp, Bubbly, and Easy to Love

Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ounces bourbon (something smooth and mellow works best)
  • 3 ounces chilled apple cider (fresh, unfiltered if possible)
  • 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice (about a generous squeeze)
  • 2 to 3 ounces sparkling water or club soda (chilled)
  • 1/4 to 1/2 ounce maple syrup or simple syrup, to taste
  • 2 to 3 dashes Angostura bitters (optional but recommended)
  • Ice
  • Garnish: thin apple slice, lemon twist, or cinnamon stick
  • Optional spice rim: 1 tablespoon sugar mixed with 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Method
 

  1. Prep the glass: If you like a spiced rim, rub a lemon wedge around the rim of a rocks or highball glass. Dip into the cinnamon-sugar mix and set aside.
  2. Build the base: Add ice to the glass. Pour in the bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, and maple syrup.
  3. Add bitters: Dash in the Angostura if using. It adds a subtle spice note and rounds out the sweetness.
  4. Top with bubbles: Gently pour in sparkling water or club soda. Stir softly once or twice to combine without killing the fizz.
  5. Garnish and serve: Slip in an apple slice, add a lemon twist, or tuck in a cinnamon stick. Sip right away while it’s cold and lively.