As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm drink to ward off the chill. One of my favorite fall traditions is gathering with family and friends around a roaring bonfire, thermoses in hand, filled with the perfect autumn elixir: the Cider-Bourbon Thermos Cocktail. This drink has become a staple in my household, a comforting blend of apple cider and bourbon that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re headed out for a fall hike or cozying up on the porch, this cocktail is your trusty companion.
Why You’ll Love This Cocktail
- Ultimate Comfort: This cocktail is like a warm blanket for your soul, with its rich, spicy flavors and the warm kick of bourbon. It’s the perfect antidote to a brisk autumn day.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it piping hot or refreshingly chilled, depending on your mood or the weather. It’s a drink that adapts to your needs.
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it ideal for impromptu gatherings or a mid-week treat.
- Elevated Flavors: The combination of maple syrup, fresh ginger, and cardamom adds depth and complexity, turning a simple drink into something truly special.
- Family Tradition Made Easy: Creating family traditions is all about simplicity and joy. This cocktail is a perfect example of how easy and rewarding it can be to start a new family favorite.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 5 mins
Additional Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups apple cider
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 3 bags cinnamon-flavored black tea
- 1 (1 inch) piece fresh ginger, sliced
- 3 cardamom pods, split
- 6 ounces bourbon
- ¼ cup lemon juice
Instructions:
- Start with the Cider: In a saucepan, bring the apple cider and maple syrup to a boil. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the perfect mood for fall.
- Infuse the Flavors: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the tea bags, ginger, and cardamom. Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Discard and Stir: Remove and discard the tea bags and spices. Stir in the bourbon and lemon juice, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Transfer to Thermos: Pour the mixture into a pre-warmed 32- to 40-ounce thermos. This step keeps your cocktail warm for hours, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
Cook’s Notes: For a delightful twist, swap apple cider with pear cider. For a chilled version, follow the instructions as above, then chill the mixture in an ice bath before transferring to a chilled thermos.
Editor’s Tip: To keep your thermos ready, warm it by filling it with boiling water and emptying it before adding the cocktail. For a cold version, fill the thermos with ice to ensure a refreshing drink.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan is ideal for boiling and mixing the ingredients.
- Thermos: A 32- to 40-ounce thermos will keep your cocktail at the desired temperature.
- Strainer: Useful for discarding the ginger and cardamom after infusion.
- Measuring Cups: Ensure accurate measurements for perfect balance.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the ginger.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Apple Cider: The star of our cocktail, apple cider brings a sweet and tangy base, rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
- Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener adds a unique, earthy sweetness that complements the cider perfectly.
- Cinnamon Tea: Infuses the drink with a warm, spicy kick, enhancing the autumnal feel.
- Fresh Ginger: Adds a zesty, spicy note that aids digestion and boosts immunity—a great ally in colder months.
- Cardamom Pods: Known for their aromatic flavor, cardamom adds depth and warmth, making the cocktail more complex and satisfying.
- Bourbon: The heart of the cocktail, bourbon provides warmth and a smooth finish that ties all the flavors together.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a refreshing zing, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the cocktail’s overall flavor profile.
What to Serve With This Cocktail
Pair your Cider-Bourbon Thermos Cocktail with some cozy comfort foods. Here are a few suggestions:
- Cheese Platter: A selection of aged cheeses like cheddar or gouda pairs beautifully with the cocktail’s sweet and spicy notes. Check out our Homemade Cheese Platter Guide for ideas!
- Apple Crisp: Amplify the apple theme with a warm apple crisp. The cinnamon and oats complement the cocktail perfectly.
- Pumpkin Bread: A slice of spiced pumpkin bread offers a lovely contrast to the drink’s flavors. Explore our Pumpkin Bread Recipe for a delicious homemade treat.
- Savory Snacks: Nuts or roasted chickpeas provide a savory balance to the cocktail’s sweetness.
For more pairing ideas, consider exploring external resources like Epicurious for seasonal recipes that complement your cocktail.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Proper storage will ensure your cocktail remains delicious for the next day:
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheat Gently: To enjoy your cocktail warm again, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat. Avoid boiling to maintain the flavors.
- Chilled Version: For the cold variation, simply keep it in the fridge. The flavors will continue to meld, creating a richer taste.
- Freezing: While not recommended for the cocktail itself, you can freeze the cider base (before adding bourbon and lemon) for up to a month. Thaw and complete the recipe when ready to enjoy!
Incorporating this Cider-Bourbon Thermos Cocktail into your fall traditions is a breeze. Its comforting warmth and inviting flavors make it a beloved staple for cozy gatherings and personal indulgence alike. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do. Here’s to making memories, one sip at a time!
Cider-Bourbon Thermos Cocktail
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, bring apple cider and maple syrup to a boil.
- Remove from heat and add tea bags, ginger, and cardamom. Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Remove and discard the tea bags and spices, then stir in the bourbon and lemon juice.
- Transfer the mixture to a warmed 32- to 40-ounce thermos.