With autumn just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to savor the crisp, refreshing taste of apples in a variety of drinks. The Mid-Atlantic is rich with orchards and boutique shops offering an abundance of apple delights, from cider to mulling spices that are simply applelicious!
Whether you are a mocktail or cocktail person, or just enjoy a warm cup of mulled cider, apple season is the perfect excuse to indulge in autumnal flavors and cozy up with a drink that celebrates the best of fall’s bounty.
Here are our top 10 apple drinks to make this autumn:
- Hot Apple Cider: A classic fall favorite. Simmer apple cider with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices for a warm, spiced drink.
- Apple Cider Sangria: Mix apple cider with white wine, apple brandy, and sliced apples, pears, and oranges for a refreshing autumn sangria.
- Spiked Apple Cider: Add a splash of bourbon, rum, or whiskey to your hot apple cider for a cozy, adults-only treat.
- Caramel Apple Martini: Combine vodka, apple schnapps, and a touch of caramel syrup for a dessert-like cocktail that’s perfect for fall.
- Apple Pie Smoothie: Blend apple juice, Greek yogurt, oats, cinnamon, and a bit of honey for a healthy smoothie that tastes like apple pie.
- Mulled Apple Cider: Heat apple cider with mulling spices (cinnamon, cloves, allspice) and add a shot of rum or brandy for a warm, spiced drink.
- Apple Bourbon Fizz: Shake apple cider, bourbon, lemon juice, and a touch of maple syrup, then top with club soda for a fizzy autumn cocktail.
- Apple Cranberry Punch: Mix apple cider with cranberry juice, ginger ale, and fresh cranberries for a festive fall punch.
- Apple Cider Margarita: Combine apple cider with tequila, triple sec, and lime juice for a fall twist on the classic margarita.
- Apple Chai Latte: Blend apple cider with chai tea and steamed milk for a cozy, spiced latte that’s perfect for chilly autumn days.
Each of these drinks captures the essence of autumn with the sweet and tart flavor of apples, making them perfect for cozy gatherings or relaxing at home.
Source your ingredients from nearby farms in your Mid-Atlantic town, like T.S. Smith & Sons in Bridgeville, DE, or Carter Mountain Orchard in Charlottesville, VA. While you’re at it, swing by a quaint local shop like McCutcheon’s in Frederick, MD, to stock up on everything you need to craft your favorite apple-based drinks that truly hit the core!