Apple Butter Old Fashioned

If you’re looking for a delightful drink to warm your heart this fall, you’ve come to the right place! The Apple Butter Old Fashioned is a cozy twist on a classic cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. With its rich flavors of apple and spice, this drink is sure to impress at any gathering—whether it’s a casual weeknight with friends or a festive family celebration. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a favorite in my home.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it blends the warmth of apple butter with the crispness of apple cider. It’s like sipping on a hug in a glass! So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this comforting concoction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This cocktail comes together in just 5 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly Twist: By using apple butter and cider, this drink offers a fun alternative that everyone can enjoy.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add your favorite garnishes to make it your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just relaxing at home, this drink fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for the Apple Butter Old Fashioned! These components are not only easy to find but also combine beautifully for an unforgettable drink experience.

For the Cocktail

• 2 tablespoons apple butter (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters (or orange bitters)
• ¼ cup apple cider
• 2 ounces good quality bourbon
• 1½ ounces club soda
• Coarse sugar (optional, for rim)
• Apple slices and cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about the Apple Butter Old Fashioned is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and make it suit your taste.

• Swap the spirit: If bourbon isn’t your thing, try using rye whiskey for a spicier kick.
• Make it non-alcoholic: Replace the bourbon with extra apple cider or sparkling water for a refreshing mocktail.
• Add some spice: A sprinkle of nutmeg or clove can really elevate those cozy flavors even more.
• Experiment with garnishes: Fresh rosemary or thyme can add an aromatic touch that pairs wonderfully with apple.

How to Make Apple Butter Old Fashioned

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Start by placing the apple butter, bitters, apple cider, and bourbon into a cocktail shaker. Shaking these ingredients together helps meld their flavors into something truly special. Remember to shake vigorously so everything gets well combined!

Step 2: Prepare Your Glass

Next, take your glass and rim it with coarse sugar if you’d like a sweet touch. Filling your glass with ice keeps your drink chilled and refreshing. It’s all about enhancing that cozy drinking experience!

Step 3: Pour Over Ice

Now, pour your delicious apple butter mixture over the ice in your prepared glass. The coolness of the ice will balance out those warm autumn flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Top with Club Soda

Finish off by topping your drink with club soda. This bubbly addition adds a delightful fizz that completes the cocktail perfectly!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, serve your Apple Butter Old Fashioned garnished with fresh apple slices and a cinnamon stick. Not only do they look beautiful, but they also add an inviting aroma as you sip away!

Enjoy every moment as you savor this lovely fall-inspired drink!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Butter Old Fashioned

Creating the perfect Apple Butter Old Fashioned is all about the details. Here are some pro tips to ensure your cocktail shines!

• Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of bourbon and apple cider will significantly impact the flavor. Opt for a smooth bourbon and fresh-pressed apple cider for the best results.

• Experiment with bitters: While aromatic bitters are traditional, trying orange bitters can give your cocktail a delightful citrus twist. It adds complexity and brightens up the overall taste.

• Homemade apple butter: If you have the time, making your own apple butter can elevate this drink. It allows you to control the sweetness and spices, resulting in a more personalized flavor.

• Chill your glass: For an extra refreshing experience, chill your glass beforehand. This keeps your drink colder longer and enhances the overall enjoyment.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Feel free to adjust the amount of apple butter depending on how sweet you like your cocktails.

How to Serve Apple Butter Old Fashioned

Serving up your Apple Butter Old Fashioned is just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this delightful drink beautifully.

Garnishes

• Apple slices: Thinly sliced fresh apples not only look beautiful but also add a crisp texture and hint of freshness that complements the drink.

• Cinnamon stick: A cinnamon stick adds a rustic touch and infuses additional spice into each sip, enhancing the warm flavors of fall.

Side Dishes

• Cheese platter: A selection of sharp cheddar, brie, or gouda pairs beautifully with the sweet notes of the cocktail. The creaminess balances out the flavors nicely.

• Spiced nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and sea salt offer a crunchy contrast that’s perfect for snacking alongside your drink.

• Caramel popcorn: This sweet treat provides a fun contrast with its crunch and buttery sweetness, making it an ideal companion for sipping.

• Pumpkin bread: A slice of warm pumpkin bread serves up comforting flavors that echo those in the cocktail, making it a cozy pairing for any fall gathering.

Enjoy crafting and sharing this delicious Apple Butter Old Fashioned — it’s sure to be a hit at any autumn gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Butter Old Fashioned is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily whip up this cocktail in advance for gatherings or cozy nights in. With a few simple steps, you can ensure your drink is ready when you are!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover apple butter mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Keep the club soda separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain its fizz.

Freezing

• Unfortunately, we don’t recommend freezing this cocktail due to the ingredients’ texture and flavor changes after thawing.
• Instead, prepare the apple butter mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this cocktail; simply shake it with ice before serving.
• If you prefer a warmer drink, consider warming the apple cider gently on the stove before mixing.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making the Apple Butter Old Fashioned.

Can I use homemade apple butter for the Apple Butter Old Fashioned?

Yes! Homemade apple butter adds a personal touch and allows you to control the sweetness and spices to your liking.

What variations can I try with my Apple Butter Old Fashioned?

Feel free to experiment by adding different spices like nutmeg or cloves, or try using flavored club sodas for an extra twist!

How long does it take to make an Apple Butter Old Fashioned?

This delightful cocktail takes just 5 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy addition to any gathering.

Is there an alternative to bourbon in the Apple Butter Old Fashioned?

Absolutely! You can use rye whiskey or even a non-alcoholic bourbon substitute if you prefer a lighter option.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Apple Butter Old Fashioned brings warmth and joy to your fall festivities! It’s such a lovely way to celebrate the season with flavors that truly capture autumn. Enjoy crafting this delightful cocktail, share it with friends or family, and let me know how it turns out! Cheers to cozy moments and delicious drinks!