Apple Butter Old Fashioned Cocktail– The Coziest Cocktail

I love how a single sip can teleport me straight into autumn’s embrace. The Apple Butter Old Fashioned Cocktail does just that—mixing the timeless charm of an Old Fashioned with the sweet, spiced essence of real apple butter.

It’s cozy, playful, and just complicated enough to feel special without any fancy bar tools.

When I first tried this twist—bourbon, apple cider, a dash of bitters, and that velvety apple butter—I couldn’t believe how effortlessly it captures crisp apples, fall spices, and a subtle fizz.

Many blog writers say things like “this is the perfect fall cocktail,” and they’re right. That seasonal magic is what makes this drink so irresistible.

Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or hosting holiday friends, this apple cocktail is your go-to companion.

If you’ve never had an Old Fashioned with apple butter before, you’re in for a treat.

The smooth, velvety apple butter blends perfectly with bourbon and bitters, creating a drink that feels like an autumn hug. It’s perfect for cozy nights, fall dinner parties, or holiday gatherings.

Let me show you how to bring those autumn flavors to life in your glass.

What Is An Old Fashioned Cocktail?

An Old Fashioned is a classic bourbon-based cocktail made with bitters, sugar, and sometimes a splash of water or soda. It’s smooth, slightly sweet, and all about letting the bourbon shine.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Butter Old Fashioned Recipe?

• It’s a seasonal twist on a timeless cocktail.
• No fancy bar tools needed—just a glass and a spoon.
• Perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or sipping by the fire.
• It uses apple butter and apple cider for a flavor that’s pure autumn.

How to Make Apple Butter Old Fashioned Cocktail?

Recipe Overview

A smooth, cozy Apple Butter Old Fashioned cocktail made with bourbon, apple cider, bitters, and rich apple butter. Perfect for fall nights and holiday gatherings.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Drinks / Cocktails
• Difficulty: Easy
• Yield: 2 cocktails
• Calories per Serving: ~160
• Serving Size: 1 cocktail

Equipment You’ll Need:

• Cocktail mixing glass or regular glass
• Bar spoon or regular spoon
• Jigger or measuring cup
• Strainer (optional)

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons apple butter
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters or orange bitters
• ¼ cup apple cider
• 2 ounces good quality bourbon
• 1½ ounces club soda
• Coarse sugar (optional, for rim)
• Apple slices and cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Notes

• Apple butter: Store-bought works great, but homemade gives it an extra cozy flavor.
• Bourbon: Choose a smooth, rich bourbon for the best flavor.
• Apple cider: Use fresh, unfiltered cider for a stronger apple taste.
• Bitters: Aromatic bitters give depth; orange bitters add a citrusy twist.

Instructions

1. Prep the glass: If you want a sugared rim, rub a lemon wedge around the rim of your glass and dip it into coarse sugar.

2. Mix the cocktail: In your mixing glass (or straight in the serving glass), add apple butter, bitters, and apple cider. Stir until smooth.

3. Add bourbon: Pour in the bourbon and stir again to combine.

4. Top with soda: Add club soda for a little fizz.

5. Garnish & serve: Add apple slices and a cinnamon stick for garnish. Serve immediately.

Tip: If you prefer your Old Fashioned chilled, add ice and stir for 20 seconds before serving.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 160
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Sugar: 10g
• Alcohol: 14g

Tips and Variations

❖ No bourbon? Swap for rum or gin for a lighter twist.

❖ Make it non-alcoholic: Replace bourbon with more apple cider and a splash of ginger beer.

❖ Extra spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg before stirring.

❖ Batch it: Multiply the recipe by 4 and mix in a pitcher for parties.

Serving Suggestions

➣Serve with apple dumplings, pumpkin pie, or cheese platters.

➣Pair with apple crisp for a full-on fall dessert night.

➣Great for autumn gatherings or holiday parties.

Storing Tips

Best enjoyed fresh, but you can pre-mix the apple butter, cider, and bourbon and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add soda before serving.

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh apple slices for garnish to boost the apple aroma.
• If your apple butter is very thick, stir with a little cider first to loosen it.

Recipe Note

This Apple Butter Old Fashioned is meant to be sipped slowly, letting the flavors mingle. It’s not just a drink—it’s an autumn experience.

FAQ

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a fall cocktail that’s rich, cozy, and full of apple flavor, this Apple Butter Old Fashioned is your new go-to. I’d love to hear how yours turns out—share your photos or let me know in the comments how you made it your own!