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–+ servings
harvest apple ginger smash in a glass on a surface.
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5 from 3 votes

Harvest Apple Ginger Smash Cocktail

A delicious and refreshing cocktail made with a homemade apple spice simple syrup, ginger liqueur, apple cider and a cinnamon-sugar rim. Perfect for fall and holiday parties!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Cocktail
Cuisine: American
Keyword: apple cider cocktail, apple spice simple syrup, cinnamon sugar rim, ginger liqueur
Servings: 2 drinks
Author: Stephanie Wise

Ingredients

For the apple spice simple syrup:

  • ¼ cup golden brown sugar
  • ½ cup raw cane sugar
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • 1 apple sliced
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ginger fresh grated

For the cinnamon-sugar rim:

  • 2 tablespoons raw cane sugar
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon

For the cocktails:

  • 2 to 4 ounces vodka
  • 2 ounces ginger liqueur
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • Ice crushed or cubed
  • Thin-sliced apple and/or fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Make the apple spice simple syrup: In a small saucepan, combine sugars, water, apple slices, 1 tablespoon cinnamon and fresh ginger. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, about 20-30 minutes or until sugar is dissolved and mixture is slightly syrupy. Remove from heat; set aside to cool completely, then strain into an airtight container. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • Meanwhile, in a small shallow bowl, stir together 2 tablespoons raw cane sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon until well combined. Dip rims of two cocktail glasses in apple cider or water, then dip and roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat. 
  • In a large cup or cocktail shaker, stir together two handfuls of ice along with vodka, ginger liqueur, 2 ounces of the cooled apple spice simple syrup and 1 cup apple cider. Strain mixture between prepared cocktail glasses; add ice as desired. Garnish with apple slices and rosemary sprigs, if desired.

Notes

  • If you love ginger, add an extra teaspoon to the simple syrup for added spice.
  • Save extra simple syrup for more cocktails! The syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Use a sweeter apple variety to flavor the simple syrup, such as Gala, Braeburn or Honeycrisp apples.

Nutrition

Calories: 492kcal | Carbohydrates: 119g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.4g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 23mg | Potassium: 298mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 110g | Vitamin A: 64IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 88mg | Iron: 1mg