Spiked Caramel Apple Cider Recipe – A Cozy Cocktail You’ll Crave

There’s nothing better than wrapping your hands around a warm mug of Spiked Caramel Apple Cider on a chilly fall night. The sweet caramel, cozy apple cider, and smooth kick of vodka and rum make this drink taste like a grown-up caramel apple

Every fall, I look forward to the smell of apple cider simmering on the stove. It takes me right back to chilly evenings, cozy blankets, and family get-togethers where a warm drink always brought everyone closer.

That’s why I love making this Spiked Caramel Apple Cider—it’s a comforting cocktail with a sweet caramel twist that feels like autumn in a glass.

This drink is perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday parties, or just those nights when you want something warm and spiced to sip on. The combination of caramel vodka, spiced rum, and apple cider makes it taste like a grown-up caramel apple.

Why I love the Spiked Caramel Apple Cider recipe?

Because it’s easy, cozy, and doesn’t need fancy bar tools. Just a mug, a spoon, and a few simple ingredients you probably already have. It’s also super flexible—you can serve it hot or chilled depending on the mood.

How to Make Spiked Caramel Apple Cider?

Recipe Overview

Spiked Caramel Apple Cider is a warm fall cocktail made with caramel vodka, spiced rum, and spiced apple cider, topped with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick for garnish. It’s a festive drink you can whip up in minutes.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Drinks / Cocktail
• Difficulty: Easy
• Yield: 1 serving
• Calories per Serving: ~230
• Serving Size: 1 cocktail
• Equipment Needed:
  • Mug or glass
  • Small saucepan (if serving hot)
  • Spoon for stirring

Ingredients

• Caramel sauce (optional, for rimming)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for rimming)
• 1½ ounces caramel vodka
• 1 ounce spiced rum
• ¾ ounce spiced apple cider (warm or chilled)
• 1 apple slice (optional, for garnish)
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)
• Bourbon (optional, for a bolder flavor)
• Whipped cream optional (for topping)

Ingredient Notes

• Caramel vodka: The star of this recipe—it gives that sweet caramel flavor. If you can’t find it, use regular vodka with a drizzle of caramel syrup.
• Spiced rum: Adds depth and warmth. Dark rum or apple brandy can work too.
• Apple cider: Fresh cider works best, but bottled cider is fine. Just avoid apple juice—it won’t have the same flavor.
• Bourbon: Optional, but it makes the drink richer and stronger.

Instructions

1. Rim the glass (optional): Pour caramel sauce onto a small plate. Dip the rim of your mug or glass in the caramel, then into the ground cinnamon for a sweet, spiced edge.

2. Warm the cider: Heat the apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling. (Skip this step if you’re serving it cold.)

3. Mix the cocktail: Pour caramel vodka, spiced rum, and warm cider into your mug. Stir gently to combine.

4. Top it off: Add whipped cream on top, garnish with an apple slice and a cinnamon stick.

5. Serve immediately: Sip slowly and enjoy the cozy fall flavors.

Tip: If making a batch for a party, multiply the ingredients and keep the cider warm in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 230
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sugar: 21g
• Fat: 2g
• Protein: 0g
• Alcohol: 15g

Variations

✔️ Spiked Caramel Apple Cider Punch: Make a big batch and serve chilled in a pitcher with apple slices floating on top. Perfect for parties.

✔️ Hot Spiked Caramel Apple Cider: Stick with the warm version for a cozy night by the fire.

✔️ Caramel Apple Cider with Bourbon: Replace rum with bourbon for a bold twist.

✔️ Non-Alcoholic Version: Skip the vodka and rum, and just add extra caramel syrup for a family-friendly caramel apple cider.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this cocktail with Thanksgiving pies like pumpkin or pecan.
• Serve it as a welcome drink at holiday gatherings.
• Add cinnamon sticks to each mug for a festive touch.

Cocktail Tips

✅ Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor.

✅ Chill the mug if serving cold.

✅ Don’t skip the whipped cream—it makes it taste like dessert in a glass.

Storing Tips

This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, keep the cider warm in a slow cooker and add the alcohol just before serving so the flavors stay bright.

Recipe Notes

• This recipe makes one serving. Multiply for larger gatherings.
• Use spiced cider, not plain apple juice.
• Garnishes are optional but make the drink look extra festive.
• Adjust sweetness by drizzling extra caramel syrup inside the mug before pouring.

FAQ

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a festive fall drink that feels like a caramel apple in a mug, this Spiked Caramel Apple Cider recipe is it. It’s quick, cozy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Try it for your next holiday gathering—or just make one for yourself after a long day.

I’d love to hear how you enjoy your caramel apple cider cocktail! Do you prefer it hot or chilled? Let me know in the comments.