As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s no better way to warm up than with a cozy fall cocktail. From spiced apple cider margaritas to pumpkin spice white Russians, these 18 irresistible recipes will make your taste buds do the happy dance. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory sipper, we’ve got you covered.
In this collection of autumnal delights, we’ll take you on a journey through the flavors and aromas of the season. From classic cocktails with a seasonal twist to innovative concoctions that blend familiar flavors in new and exciting ways, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Spiced Apple Cider Margarita
Warm up with this autumnal twist on the classic margarita, featuring spiced apple cider and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for crisp fall evenings or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz tequila
– 1 oz apple cider-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– 1/2 oz triple sec
– 1/4 cup spiced apple cider (see note)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Cinnamon stick, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, apple cider-infused simple syrup, lime juice, and triple sec.
3. Add spiced apple cider and fill shaker with ice.
4. Shake until chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain into prepared glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and cinnamon stick.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make apple cider-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar and 2 cups apple cider in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Strain and let cool. For spiced apple cider, combine 2 cups apple cider with 1 cinnamon stick and 4 cloves in a saucepan. Heat until warm and fragrant. Strain before using.
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique twist on the classic White Russian, featuring the warm spices of pumpkin pie season.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1/4 tsp pumpkin puree
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
– Ice
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Shake until chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned
Elevate your Old Fashioned game with the rich flavors of maple and bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 1/2 oz angostura bitters
– 1/2 oz orange curaçao
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, maple syrup, angostura bitters, and orange curaçao.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with one large ice cube.
5. Express a thin strip of orange peel over the drink, if desired, for garnish.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and serve.
Cranberry Sage Gin Fizz
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Cranberry Sage Gin Fizz, perfect for a crisp evening or a festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz cranberry juice
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– 1/4 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup sage leaves
– Club soda
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add fresh or frozen cranberries and sage leaves to the shaker; muddle gently to release flavors and aromas.
3. Fill the shaker with ice; shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice; top with club soda.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of sage, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: 1 serving
Caramel Apple Martini
Elevate your cocktail game with this sweet and tangy Caramel Apple Martini, perfect for fall gatherings or a romantic evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of vodka (1.5 oz)
– 1 shot of apple-flavored liqueur (0.75 oz)
– 1/2 cup caramel syrup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup crushed ice
– Sliced apples for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
2. Add vodka, apple-flavored liqueur, and caramel syrup. Shake until well combined.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
4. Pour in heavy cream and apple cider. Stir gently to create a layered effect.
5. Garnish with a slice of apple.
Cooking Time: None
Enjoy your Caramel Apple Martini!
Hot Buttered Rum
Warm Up with a Classic: Hot Buttered Rum
This rich and comforting drink is perfect for cold winter nights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and soothing beverage that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of dark rum (1 1/2 ounces)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup hot water
– Optional: whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for topping
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon stick, and nutmeg to the melted butter.
3. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
4. Pour in the hot water and stir until well combined.
5. Add the rum and stir gently.
6. Strain the mixture into a mug to serve.
7. Optional: top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Smoked Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
Elevate your whiskey sour game with this unique twist that combines the warmth of smoked cinnamon with the tanginess of citrus. Perfect for fall and winter gatherings, this drink is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (infused with smoked cinnamon, see below)
– 1 dash of Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Smoked Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked cinnamon powder (or 1/4 cup loose-leaf smoked cinnamon)
Combine water and sugar in a saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves, then add smoked cinnamon. Simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the syrup.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and bitters.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a mixed drink!
Pecan Pie Espresso Martini
Experience the perfect blend of rich flavors with this unique Pecan Pie Espresso Martini recipe. A combination of smooth espresso, nutty pecans, and velvety cream will transport your taste buds to a world of indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz Kahlúa liqueur
– 1 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 shot espresso (about 1.5 oz)
– Simple syrup (optional, to taste)
– Whipped cream and additional pecans for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, Kahlúa liqueur, and heavy cream.
3. Add a shot of espresso and a splash of simple syrup (if using).
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the martini into a chilled glass.
6. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top as garnish.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe.
Fig and Thyme Prosecco Punch
Add a touch of sophistication to your next gathering with this refreshing and flavorful punch, perfect for warm weather celebrations. Sweet figs and fragrant thyme complement the crispness of Prosecco in this delightful concoction.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle Prosecco (750ml)
– 1 cup dried figs, rehydrated and chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
– 1 cup lemon-lime soda
– Ice cubes
– Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the rehydrated figs, thyme leaves, and Prosecco.
2. Stir gently to combine and let it infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Just before serving, stir in the lemon-lime soda.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the punch over the ice.
5. Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh thyme.
Cooking Time: None
Toasted Marshmallow Hot Toddy
Toasted Marshmallow Hot Toddy Recipe
Summary: This warm and comforting drink combines the sweetness of toasted marshmallows with the richness of bourbon and the spiciness of cinnamon, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 ounce bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
• 1 toasted marshmallow (see note)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the ground cinnamon and whisk until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the bourbon whiskey.
4. Place the toasted marshmallow on top of the hot toddy mixture and let it sit for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Note: To toast a marshmallow, place one on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and broil in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30-45 seconds, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pear and Ginger Mulled Wine
As the weather cools down, a warm and spicy mulled wine is just what you need to cozy up on a chilly evening. This recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the spiciness of ginger, creating a perfect blend for the winter season.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon work well)
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine wine, pears, ginger, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Add brown sugar and water. Stir until sugar dissolves.
5. Remove from heat and let it steep for at least 30 minutes.
6. Strain the wine before serving. Serve warm, garnished with a slice of pear and a sprig of rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Brown Sugar Maple Manhattan
Elevate your cocktail game with this sweet and sophisticated twist on the classic Manhattan. The addition of brown sugar and maple syrup adds a rich, velvety texture to this whiskey-based drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 oz Brown Sugar Syrup (see note)
– 1/2 oz Maple Syrup
– 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
– Cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add whiskey, brown sugar syrup, and maple syrup.
3. Add bitters and stir for approximately 30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None (all mixing and serving is done at room temperature)
Chai Tea Infused Vodka Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and warming drink, featuring the aromatic flavors of chai tea infused into vodka. Perfect for crisp fall evenings or cozy gatherings with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vodka
– 1/2 cup loose-leaf black tea (such as Assam or Ceylon)
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Ice
– Lemon slice or cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large glass jar, combine vodka and loose-leaf tea.
2. Add cinnamon stick and whole cloves to the mixture.
3. Steep in refrigerator for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours to allow flavors to meld.
4. Strain infused vodka through cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle.
5. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of honey with 1/4 cup heavy cream (if using) and stir until dissolved.
6. Combine infused vodka, honey mixture, and ice in a cocktail shaker.
7. Shake gently to combine and chill.
8. Strain into glasses filled with ice and garnish with lemon slice or cinnamon stick.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours (steeping time)
Apple Cider Mimosa
Elevate your brunch game with this refreshing twist on the classic mimosa. Apple cider adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the champagne and orange juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup apple cider, chilled
– 1/2 cup champagne or sparkling wine, chilled
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Slices of orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in the apple cider and champagne until the glass is about 3/4 full.
3. Add the orange juice and stir gently to combine.
4. Taste and add honey if desired for extra sweetness.
5. Garnish with an orange slice and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Cranberry Orange Bourbon Smash
A refreshing twist on a classic bourbon smash, this Cranberry Orange Bourbon Smash combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange and the warmth of bourbon. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 oz cranberry juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– Orange wheel and rosemary sprig for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine bourbon, orange juice, cranberry juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add fresh or frozen cranberries to the shaker and muddle gently to release their flavor and color.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange wheel and rosemary sprig.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail, not a cooked dish.
Pumpkin Beer Sangria
As the leaves change colors and the temperatures drop, warm up with a glass of Pumpkin Beer Sangria. This seasonal twist on traditional sangria combines the richness of pumpkin beer with the sweetness of fall fruits.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of pumpkin beer (approx. 12 oz)
– 1 cup mixed autumnal fruit (such as apple, pear, and cranberries)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– 1/4 cup triple sec
– Slices of orange and lemon for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the pumpkin beer, mixed fruit, and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the orange liqueur and triple sec. Stir gently to combine.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve over ice with slices of orange and lemon.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is served chilled.
Spiced Pear Bellini
Combine the warmth of spices with the sweetness of pears and bubbly champagne in this unique Bellini variation.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and diced
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups champagne
– Sparkling water
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pears, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Add sugar and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture steep for 10-15 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
3. Strain the pear mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl. Discard the solids.
4. Chill the pear syrup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. To assemble the Bellinis, combine 2 oz of chilled pear syrup with 4 oz of champagne in a flute glass. Top with sparkling water and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Honey Roasted Nut Old Fashioned
Elevate your cocktail game with this sweet and nutty twist on the classic Old Fashioned. The honey roasted nuts add a depth of flavor and satisfying crunch to each sip.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon or whiskey
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 3-4 honey roasted pecan halves
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
– Angostura bitters
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, honey syrup, and bitters.
2. Add the honey roasted pecans to the mixture.
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for 30-45 seconds.
4. Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just roast those nuts ahead of time or prepare them as instructed below.
Summary
Get cozy this fall with these 18 irresistibly spiced cocktail recipes. From Spiced Apple Cider Margaritas to Pumpkin Spice White Russians, and Maple Bourbon Old Fashioneds to Cranberry Sage Gin Fizz, there’s something for every taste bud. These autumnal concoctions combine warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger with seasonal ingredients like apple cider, pumpkin puree, and maple syrup. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet and sour Caramel Apple Martini or a rich and creamy Pecan Pie Espresso Martini, these recipes are sure to delight. So go ahead, grab a blanket, and cozy up with one of these delicious drinks.