Apple Cider Sidecar

Introduction

Nothing captures the vibrant flavors of fall like an Apple Cider Sidecar. With crisp apple cider, citrusy notes, and a smooth hint of brandy, this cocktail feels both sophisticated and comforting. It’s a brilliant upgrade to the classic sidecar, swapping in bottled or fresh apple cider for a seasonal twist.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests with a creative autumnal drink or simply want to unwind after a long day, this cocktail is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—effortlessly balancing tartness, spice, and warmth in each glass.

Why Make an Apple Cider Sidecar?

Classic cocktails earn their status by being consistently delicious—but a drink like the Apple Cider Sidecar offers something extra special. The natural sweetness of apple cider adds depth, while the signature tang of lemon and the rich body of brandy (or cognac) round everything out. Every sip evokes the changing seasons, perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings.

Prepping Your Ingredients with Ease

For the freshest, brightest flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and high-quality, cold apple cider. If you’re working with whole apples to garnish your drink or to create apple slices for snacking, a tool like the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper makes prepping effortless and gives you beautifully even slices every time.

Crafting the Perfect Apple Cider Sidecar

Creating this cocktail is all about balance and technique. Start by filling a cocktail shaker with ice. If you want to ensure each ingredient is perfectly blended and chilled, a high-powered device like the Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender is an excellent option for mixing larger batches of cocktails or homemade ciders.

Shake together the brandy (or cognac), orange liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and apple cider until well chilled. If you’re measuring ingredients for multiple drinks or seeking consistency, the Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale with LCD Display can help ensure you nail the proportions each time.

For a final flourish, rim your cocktail glasses with sugar and ground cinnamon—a small but impactful touch that ties all the flavors together.

Serving Suggestions and Garnishes

Pour your perfectly blended sidecar into the prepared glass and garnish with an apple slice and lemon twist for visual appeal. A reusable straw or classic bar spoon works well for stirring just before sipping. If you’re serving a group, the Stanley Quencher ProTour Flip Straw Tumbler, 30 oz, Rose Quartz keeps larger batches cold and easily shareable throughout the evening.

For party settings, pair the cocktail with lightly salted nuts, crisp apple chips, or a beautiful fall cheese board. Keep a few extra apple slices on hand for snacking or garnish.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields two generous cocktails, each approximately 170–190 calories, depending on your cider and liqueur selection. As always with cocktails, sip and savor responsibly!

Apple Cider Sidecar Recap

Apple cider sidecars are an exceptional twist on the classic, infusing the invigorating flavors of fall into every glass. With just the right amount of citrus and sweetness, this cocktail is an elegant but approachable showstopper for seasonal celebrations.

Instructions

1. Prepare your garnish: Slice apples using the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper for even, attractive pieces.
2. Rim two cocktail glasses with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. Run a lemon wedge around the rim, then dip each glass in the cinnamon sugar.
3. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add apple cider, brandy (or cognac), orange liqueur, and fresh lemon juice.
4. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds, or until the mixture is well chilled.
5. Strain into the prepared glasses and garnish with apple slices and lemon twists. If batching for a party, blend a larger quantity using the Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender and pour over ice in a serving vessel like the Stanley Quencher ProTour Flip Straw Tumbler.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 8 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 8 minutes

Enjoy this festive, perfectly balanced Apple Cider Sidecar—sure to be your go-to cocktail whenever apple cider season comes around!