What goes in a bourbon smash?

A bourbon smash typically includes bourbon, fresh citrus (often lemon), a sweetener, and seasonal fruit or herbs. The ingredients are muddled to release flavor, then shaken with ice. In the case of an Apple Cider Bourbon Smash, the sweetener is often optional since cider adds natural sweetness.

What does “smash” mean in a cocktail?

In cocktail terms, “smash” refers to muddling fresh ingredients like fruit and herbs to release their oils, juice, and aromas, creating a fresh, vibrant flavor in the drink.

Which alcohol goes best with apple cider?

Bourbon is a favorite because its caramel and vanilla notes pair beautifully with cider’s crisp sweetness. Other great options include whiskey, dark rum, or brandy, depending on the flavor profile you want.

What kind of alcohol is in a smash?

Traditionally, a smash is made with bourbon or whiskey, but modern variations use gin, rum, or vodka depending on the recipe. For an Apple Cider Bourbon Smash, bourbon is the classic choice.

Apple Cider Bourbon Smash: The Coziest Fall Cocktail

Description

A cozy fall cocktail blending smooth bourbon, crisp apple cider, and fresh citrus, perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet evenings by the fire.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lemon (cut into 8 wedges)

4 oz bourbon

5 oz fresh apple cider (unfiltered preferred)

Apple slices, for garnish

1 cinnamon stick, for garnish

Optional: 4 sprigs fresh thyme

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Place lemon wedges in a cocktail shaker and muddle for at least 2 minutes to release juice and zest.

2. Add bourbon and apple cider to the shaker.

3. Fill the shaker halfway with ice, cap it, and shake vigorously for 20 seconds.

4. Strain into glasses filled with fresh ice.

5. Garnish each glass with apple slices, a cinnamon stick, and thyme if desired.

Notes

For a lighter drink, mix half cider with sparkling water.

Sweeteners like maple syrup or honey can be added if you prefer a sweeter taste.

Ginger beer adds a spicy fizz; great for holiday parties.

Use large ice cubes to slow dilution and keep flavors bold.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Cocktail, Drink
Method: Shaken
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 glass
Calories: 179
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 4mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg