Caramel Apple Cider Crush Cocktail Recipe
Introduction
The Caramel Apple Cider Crush Cocktail is the essence of fall in a glass—combining crisp apple cider, sweet caramel, and a hint of warming spirits for a drink that’s as festive as it is delicious. This cocktail is a crowd-pleaser at holiday parties, cozy nights by the fire, or fall-themed brunches, offering both sweetness and a refreshing tang.
The Irresistible Charm of Caramel Apple Cider Crush
What sets this recipe apart is its irresistible blend of flavors: rich caramel marries the fresh tang of apple cider and a splash of your favorite spirit. The result is a balanced drink that’s smooth, sparkling, and beautifully layered. It’s also quick to assemble, making it a go-to for gatherings or when you want a special drink with minimal effort.
Mixing the Caramel Apple Cider Crush Cocktail
Starting with high-quality apple cider as your base, the addition of caramel sauce brings velvety sweetness and a bit of decadence. A touch of lemon or orange juice brightens the drink, while club soda or ginger beer adds fizz. Bourbon or vodka provides warmth and depth, but you can leave it out for a delightful mocktail version.
How to Serve for Maximum Appeal
For eye-catching presentation, serve your Caramel Apple Cider Crush in a rocks or mason jar glass with crushed ice. Rim the glass with caramel and dip it in cinnamon sugar, then garnish with thin apple slices or a cinnamon stick. This cocktail not only tastes like autumn—it looks like it, too!
Caramel Apple Cider Crush Variations
Make this recipe your own by swapping bourbon for spiced rum or using pear cider instead of apple for a twist. For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream for a caramel apple “float” effect. Or, go alcohol-free by simply omitting the spirit—perfect for family-friendly entertaining.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
One Caramel Apple Cider Crush cocktail delivers about 180–230 calories per serving, depending on your caramel and alcohol portions. It’s decadent yet refreshing, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a festive gathering or weekend treat!
Ingredients
💡Meal Planning Tip: Save this recipe to instantly generate a smart shopping list with every ingredient conveniently organized by store section—perfect for streamlined shopping and last-minute entertaining.

Instructions
- Rim your serving glass with caramel sauce and dip into cinnamon sugar if desired.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice.
- In a shaker, combine apple cider, caramel sauce, bourbon or vodka (if using), and lemon or orange juice. Shake until the caramel sauce is fully incorporated.
- Pour the mixture over the ice, then top with club soda or ginger beer for fizz. Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with apple slices and a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately and enjoy the flavors of fall!
Weekly Meal Planning
Elevate your hosting or relaxing weekends by adding the Caramel Apple Cider Crush Cocktail to your weekly meal plan. Save and schedule this recipe to coordinate your drinks, appetizers, and meals—letting CookifyAI create streamlined, organized shopping lists for your entire week.
Planning Benefits:
- Adds variety to your weekly drinks and meals with minimal extra effort
- Consolidates all cocktail and meal ingredients—never miss a mixer or garnish
- Saves time by organizing your shopping list by grocery section
- Prevents forgetting festive extras like caramel sauce or fresh apples
Pro tip: When planning for a gathering, schedule cocktails and complementary appetizers to see exactly what to buy and in what quantities, reducing stress and last-minute grocery runs.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Enjoy the simple, seasonal magic of the Caramel Apple Cider Crush Cocktail—an easy, crowd-pleasing treat for any fall occasion!