Apple Cider Vodka Crush

I still remember the first time I made this apple cider vodka crush on a blustery October afternoon. The wind had just started to whistle through the mountain trees, and I was setting the table for my sister’s backyard harvest party. I wanted something quick, pretty, and full of cozy fall flavor—but without fuss. So I reached for a bottle of crisp apple cider, that last splash of vodka from our summer stash, and a whisper of cinnamon. One stir later, I had a hit on my hands.

This drink has become my go-to for any gathering that calls for fall cocktails with just the right mix of sparkle and spice. Whether you’re toasting by the firepit or hosting a casual brunch, it’s the kind of simple pleasure that makes autumn feel like home.

From my kitchen to yours, let’s bring this dish to life.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This fall cocktails recipe checks all the boxes: it’s fast, festive, and completely foolproof. Whether you’re hosting book club or just winding down after work, this drink brings autumn into your glass without overcomplicating things.

It delivers big on flavor with minimal ingredients. That cozy apple cider pairs beautifully with smooth vodka and zippy ginger ale — a trio that tastes like golden leaves and sweater weather.

It’s a total crowd-pleaser. You can make one for yourself or mix up a whole pitcher. The balance of spice and sweetness makes it easy to sip and easy to serve.

It’s also totally customizable, making it one of my most recommended fall cocktails for home mixologists and beginners alike.

And here’s the best part: you’ll be ready to sip in less than five minutes!

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Ingredient Overview

There’s a reason this drink is a fan favorite — the ingredients are simple, fresh, and scream fall. Here’s what makes this Apple Cider Vodka Crush shine among other fall cocktails:

• Apple Cider: The star of the show. Rich, crisp, and deeply autumnal. Go for freshly pressed if you can.

• Vodka: Clean and smooth, vodka lets the apple flavor pop while giving the cocktail a welcome kick.

• Ginger Ale: Adds just the right amount of sparkle and spice. Use chilled for best fizz.

• Honeycrisp Apple Slice (for garnish): Adds visual charm and a sweet crunch if you munch it after sipping.

• Cinnamon Stick: For stirring and aroma — the essence of cozy.

• Dash of Cinnamon: A light sprinkle on top brings warmth and a touch of visual flair.

Optional styling tip: Rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for an elegant touch that elevates your presentation.

Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1: Fill Your Glass with Crushed Ice

Start by filling a rocks or highball glass all the way to the top with crushed ice. The crushed texture chills the drink faster and keeps it crisp — just what you want in refreshing fall cocktails.

Step 2: Pour in the Apple Cider

Add 3 ounces of apple cider over the ice. Choose a bold, cloudy cider if you can. It brings richness and warmth that sets the tone for flavorful fall cocktails.

Step 3: Add the Vodka

Now pour in 1 ounce of vodka. I usually opt for something smooth and neutral — nothing too harsh. You want it to lift the cider, not overpower it.

Step 4: Top with Ginger Ale

Add 2 ounces of ginger ale to the mix. This step brings effervescence and spice, turning a basic drink into a standout among fall cocktails.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd your glass — leave just enough space for the fizz to rise.

Step 5: Stir to Combine

Use a bar spoon or stir stick to gently mix everything together. Stir until the glass feels frosty and the ingredients are fully combined.

Step 6: Garnish & Sprinkle

Tuck a fresh slice of Honeycrisp apple into the glass and nestle in a cinnamon stick. Finish with a tiny dash of ground cinnamon sprinkled right on top.

Pro Tips

Use fresh apple cider when making fall cocktails like this one — it makes a noticeable difference. If you’re able to snag a local jug from your farmer’s market, even better.

For extra flair, rim the glass with cinnamon sugar. Just run a lemon wedge around the edge and dip it into a shallow plate of cinnamon sugar. This elevates your drink from simple to stunning — perfect for impressing guests with fall cocktails.

Want to batch this cocktail for a gathering? Multiply everything by 4 and stir gently in a pitcher. Just be sure to add the ginger ale right before serving to keep those bubbles intact.

Play with flavored vodkas like vanilla or caramel if you want to add more dimension. Some of my favorite fall cocktails experiment with these seasonal twists.

Finally, for a slightly boozier apple cocktail, try combining this with a splash of Apple Cider Sangria — you’ll end up with a hybrid that’s both fizzy and wine-soaked.

Variations

Make it a mocktail: Simply leave out the vodka and add more ginger ale. Kids and non-drinkers will still enjoy this one, especially during autumn gatherings filled with festive fall cocktails.

Go smoky: Add a tiny splash of mezcal instead of vodka for a smoky twist. It pairs beautifully with apple cider’s sweetness and is becoming trendy in upscale fall cocktails menus.

Want to spice it up? Add a dash of cayenne or muddle in a slice of fresh ginger before you pour. Bold palates love a bit of heat with their fall cocktails.

For a citrusy lift, try swapping ginger ale for blood orange soda or sparkling apple juice. It brightens the drink and creates a whole new version of Fall Margarita Recipe–inspired flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Cider Vodka Crush pairs beautifully with hearty snacks and light bites that echo the spirit of fall cocktails. Try it alongside a baked brie with fig jam, spiced nuts, or even something savory like mini grilled cheese sliders.

If you’re hosting a full spread, consider serving it before a cozy dinner of Fall Soups and Stews – Healthy. It cuts through rich flavors and resets the palate with its crisp, gingery kick.

For dessert? Caramel apples, apple crumble bars, or pumpkin spice cookies make this one of those fall cocktails that can bookend your entire gathering.

Serve it in clear glasses to showcase that golden amber hue, and don’t skip the cinnamon stick — it doubles as a stirrer and a scent booster!

Conclusion

When the air turns crisp and the leaves crunch underfoot, nothing beats sipping something seasonal and sparkly. This Apple Cider Vodka Crush is one of my favorite fall cocktails because it celebrates everything comforting, cozy, and easy about autumn.

It’s quick to stir together, endlessly customizable, and pretty enough for your fanciest friends. Whether you’re lounging in leggings or throwing a Friendsgiving bash, this drink fits the moment.

Looking for more inspiration? Head over to our Easy Fall Desserts to complete your table with something sweet.

And hey — if you make this cocktail and love it, be sure to tag us on Pinterest or share with your fall-loving crew. Let’s raise a glass to simple sips and golden moments.

From my kitchen to yours — happy cooking, friends!