Fall is here, and with it comes the craving for a more sophisticated and savory seasonal drink. If you’re looking for the perfect cocktail to capture the essence of autumn, the Apple Cider Martini is just what you need!

This cocktail is the ideal blend of tangy and sweet, with the citrusy hint of Cointreau balancing out the rich apple cider. Cinnamon adds a cozy warmth, creating a drink that’s the epitome of fall sophistication.

Whether you’re impressing friends at a gathering or savoring a quiet evening at home, this martini is pure perfection in a glass.

Let’s dive into the steps to craft this elegant Apple Cider Martini.

Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar Rim

Before mixing the cocktail, you’ll want to prep your glass with a delightful cinnamon sugar rim. This adds a sweet, spicy touch to every sip, perfect for enhancing the flavors of the martini.

Mix the Cinnamon Sugar: Combine 1 tablespoon of sugar with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon in a small dish.
Prepare the Glass: Rub a lemon slice around the rim of your martini glass, then dip it into the cinnamon sugar mixture. For a balanced flavor, you might choose to rim only half of the glass, giving you the option for a sugary sip or a more straightforward one.

Mixing the Apple Cider Martini

Now that your glass is ready, it’s time to mix up this quick and easy cocktail.

Fill the Shaker: Start by filling your cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
Add Ingredients: Pour in 2 oz of vodka, 2 oz of apple cider, 1/2 oz of Cointreau, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice (about 1 tsp), and 1 tsp of maple syrup.
Shake: Shake vigorously to mix and chill the ingredients.
Serve: Pour the mixture into your prepared martini glass.

Garnishing Your Martini

The final step is to add a touch of garnish to make your Apple Cider Martini even more inviting.

Apple Slice: Slice an apple like a disk, dip it in lemon juice to prevent browning, and float it on the surface of your drink.
Cinnamon Stick: For added flair, you can also add a cinnamon stick to the glass. Either garnish is optional, but they both add a lovely autumnal touch.

Savor the Season

As the leaves change and the air cools, there’s no better way to enjoy the beauty of autumn than with an Apple Cider Martini in hand. This drink is not just a cocktail; it’s an experience that invites you to slow down, savor the season, and drink in the beauty around you.

For those in regions where fall is fleeting, like Chicago, this martini is the perfect way to make the most of this special time of year. Enjoy!