Apple Cider Whiskey Cocktail Recipe for Fall Gatherings

This apple cider whiskey cocktail is a refreshing, apple-cider-based alcoholic drink made with Prosecco and whiskey. Seasoned with cinnamon, nutmeg, apple slices and orange slices, it’s a perfect choice for Fall and Winter gatherings.

Apple Cider Whiskey Cocktail in two cups.

I make this spiked apple cider cocktail every Thanksgiving and Christmas — it’s sweet, bubbly, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Table of Contents

  • Why this recipe works
  • Recipe ingredients
  • Additions / Substitutions
  • Step by step instructions
  • Recipe FAQs
  • Other cocktail recipes you’ll love
  • Apple Cider Whiskey Cocktail Recipe

Why this recipe works

  • Requires only a few simple ingredients.
  • Easy to customize to taste.
  • Shows off the bright apple cider flavor.
  • Balanced — not too sweet or overpowering.
  • Great served as a Thanksgiving punch or holiday cocktail.

Recipe ingredients

Ingredients needed to make spiked a apple cider cocktail.
  • Apple cider — use a good-quality cider made from pure apple juice (no added flavors). Honeycrisp or similar varietal ciders work well.
  • Prosecco — or Champagne, for bubbles and brightness.
  • Whiskey / Whisky — any favorite brand will do; adjust amount to taste.
  • Ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg — a little spice adds warmth.
  • Apple slices — for flavor and garnish.
  • Orange slices — for a citrus note and garnish.

Additions / Substitutions

  • Add fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds for festive color and texture.
  • Use pumpkin spice mix in place of cinnamon and nutmeg for a seasonal twist.
  • Substitute scotch, rum, or vodka for whiskey if you prefer a different spirit.

Step by step instructions

Making a Thanksgiving Punch with alcohol instructions.
Step 1

Step 1: Pour a small amount of apple cider into a pitcher and whisk in the ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg until evenly combined. Add the remaining apple cider, then pour in the Prosecco and the whiskey. Stir gently to combine.

Thanksgiving Punch with alcohol after all the ingredients were added to the pitcher.
Step 2

Step 2: Add the sliced apples and oranges to the pitcher. Cover and refrigerate for 2–3 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Apple Cider Whiskey Cocktail with pomegranate seeds added to the cups.
Step 3

Step 3: To serve, fill glasses with ice, ladle in the cocktail, and garnish with additional apple or orange slices. Add pomegranate seeds or fresh cranberries for a festive touch.

Recipe FAQs

How do you store this drink?

Keep the cocktail covered in an airtight pitcher or container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can you make this drink in advance?

Yes. Prepare it 1–2 days ahead, refrigerate, and stir before serving. Add Prosecco just before serving if you prefer more fizz.

What other types of alcohol work in this recipe?

Rum or vodka are good alternatives; scotch can add a smoky note if desired.

Apple Cider Cocktail in two cups with orange slices on the cups.

Other cocktail recipes you’ll love

Healthy Paloma Cocktail with Honey Syrup

Healthy Paloma Cocktail with Honey Syrup

Cointreau Margarita Recipe

Cointreau Margarita Recipe

Dairy-free White Russian

Dairy-free White Russian

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Apple Cider Whiskey Cocktail

By: Dominique
Servings: 8
Prep: 10 mins
Refrigeration time: 3 hrs
Total: 3 hrs 10 mins
Apple Cider Whiskey Cocktail in two cups.
A bubbly, spiced apple cider cocktail made with Prosecco and whiskey, brightened with fresh apple and orange slices.

Equipment

  • a 2 Quart glass pitcher or punch bowl

Ingredients

  • 3 cups apple cider
  • 3 cups Prosecco
  • 1 cup whiskey
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • a pinch nutmeg
  • sliced apples
  • sliced oranges
  • pomegranate seeds or fresh cranberries (optional)

Instructions

  1. Add a small amount of apple cider to a pitcher and whisk in the cinnamon and nutmeg until smooth. Add the remaining cider, then pour in the Prosecco and whiskey. Stir gently to combine.
  2. Add sliced apples and oranges to the pitcher. Refrigerate, covered, for 2–3 hours to let flavors meld.
  3. Serve over ice, garnished with cranberries or pomegranate seeds and extra fruit slices.
  4. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Notes

  • Add fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a festive pop of color.
  • Substitute pumpkin spice for the cinnamon and nutmeg for a seasonal variation.
  • Scotch, rum, or vodka can be used instead of whiskey for different flavor profiles.

Nutrition

Approximate per serving: Calories: 158 kcal; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Protein: 0.2 g; Fat: 0.1 g; Sugar: 10 g.

Additional Info

Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
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