Apple Cider Vodka Cocktail
I am no bartender, but this Apple Cider Vodka Cocktail is so easy it is impossible to mess up. A gallon of apple cider simmers with sugar, cinnamon and allspice until your whole house smells warm, cozy and full of holiday cheer. Once chilled, it is spiked with smooth Prairie Organic Vodka. If you love my Apple Pie Sangria or my Apple Cider Mimosa, this belongs on your holiday menu.
Moreover, one batch serves a crowd. Equally important, the spiced cider can be made days ahead.
In essence, it is the coziest party drink. Serve it with my Perfect Fall Inspired Mimosas for a fall brunch.
What Is an Apple Cider Vodka Cocktail?
It is homemade spiced apple cider, chilled and mixed with vodka.
Apple Cider Vodka Cocktail Ingredients (With Purpose & Flavor Notes)
Apple Cider
A full gallon makes plenty for a party.
Sugar
A touch of sweetness.
Cinnamon & Allspice
Warm holiday spice.
Prairie Organic Vodka
Smooth and clean.
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Cocktail Shaker
For the host building a home bar. It chills the drink and bruises the mint.
Double Jigger
For anyone who free-pours. It keeps the Chambord and bourbon in balance.
Mesh Strainers
For straining the hibiscus tea and the torn mint, so nothing floats in the glass.
Bar Strainer
For the double strain. It fits over the shaker tin and holds back the ice.
Wine Glasses
For the hostess who wants one glass for wine and cocktails. They hold plenty of ice.
Citrus Juicer
For the brunch host juicing more than one grapefruit. Fresh juice matters here.
Electric Kettle
For the tea lover. It heats the water for the hibiscus tea and pours cleanly.
Measuring Cups
For steeping the tea. Cover the cup while it steeps, then pour from the spout.
Ice Cube Trays
For the guest who sips slowly. Big cubes keep the drink cold without watering it down.
Paring Knife
For clean grapefruit slices on the rim. The one knife every home bar needs.
Serving Tray
For carrying a round of drinks to the table, with the garnishes alongside.
Linen Napkins
For the host who loves the details. A small touch under every cold glass.
How To Make an Apple Cider Vodka Cocktail
- Stir sugar and spices into the cider.
- Boil 1 hour, then simmer covered 2 hours.
- Chill until cold.
- Add 1 1/2 oz vodka per 6 oz cider.
Apple Cider Vodka Cocktail
Ingredients
- 1 gallon apple cider I use Martinelli’s Gold Medal
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground allspice
- 1 1/2 oz Prairie Organic Vodka per 6 oz of chilled cider
Instructions
- Spice the cider. Place the apple cider in a large stockpot and stir in the sugar, cinnamon and allspice.
- Boil uncovered for 1 hour.
- Simmer. Cover, reduce the heat and simmer for 2 hours.
- Chill in the refrigerator until cold.
- Serve. Add 1 1/2 oz vodka for every 6 oz of chilled spiced cider and stir.
KEEP HOSTING
More to pour from the bar — three cocktails worth shaking up next.
Recipe: Apple Cider Mimosa
A bright, bubbly mimosa that makes any brunch feel like a celebration.
Pour a Glass →
Recipe: Dixie Autumn Shandy Cocktail
Easy-drinking and refreshing with a laid-back vibe.
Pour a Glass →
Perfect and Easy Fall Apple Pie Sangria Cocktail
A fruit-forward sangria built for slow sipping and easy entertaining.
Pour a Glass →
Variations
Warm Version
Serve the spiced cider warm with vodka.
Bourbon
Swap vodka for bourbon.
Caramel Vodka
Use caramel vodka.
Mocktail
Skip the vodka.
Citrus
Add orange slices while simmering.
Slow Cooker
Simmer on low for 4 hours.
When I Love Serving an Apple Cider Vodka Cocktail
Thanksgiving
A cozy welcome.
Christmas Parties
Festive and fragrant.
Fall Tailgates
Serve chilled from a dispenser.
Friendsgiving
Easy for a crowd, next to my Gingerbread Martini.
Holiday Open House
Make ahead.
Bonfires
Warm or cold.
What To Serve With an Apple Cider Vodka Cocktail
Something Salty
My Salami Chips or Caviar Potato Chips.
An Elegant Bite
A Showstopper Board
My Caviar Board.
Seafood Crostini
My Smoked Salmon, Dill & Caviar Crostini.
A Cocktail Flight
Set out my Martini Board.
Something Sweet
Shelf Life & Storage Tips
Refrigerator
Store spiced cider (without vodka) for up to 5 days.
Make Ahead
Make the cider up to 3 days ahead.
Serving
Add vodka by the glass so guests can choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I serve it warm?
Yes, add vodka to warm cider just before serving.
How much vodka should I use?
About 1 1/2 oz per 6 oz of cider.
How many does it serve?
About 16.
Can I use store-bought spiced cider?
Yes, skip the simmering.
What vodka is best?
A smooth vodka like Prairie Organic.
Final Thoughts
This spiced cider makes the whole house smell like the holidays. With this in mind, I hope it becomes one of your go-to pours for gathering with the people you love.
All things considered, a great drink is one of the easiest ways to make guests feel celebrated. Please enjoy responsibly, and if you make it, I would love to hear how you served it.
Erica A. Thomas
Founder of Eating With Erica
SAVE NOW, MAKE LATER!
