Tag: apples

Ingredients:

• 3 large apples, sliced or diced
• 1 to 3 cinnamon sticks
• Pinch of cardamom 
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1 to 3 whole cloves (they really pack a punch)
• 3 Tbsp brown sugar
• Bourbon

Directions:

1. Add all ingredients to a large (1L+) jar, then cover with bourbon. Gently shake, then store in a cool, dark place. Let infuse for at least 3 days, or up to 2 weeks.
2. Strain the bourbon through cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve.

You can store the strained bourbon at room temperature in a dark place indefinitely.

Cocktail Directions:

Fill a glass or copper mug with crushed ice. Add in 2 oz of the infused bourbon, 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice, 3 oz apple cider, and 3 oz ginger beer. Stir, then (optional) garnish with apple slices and a cinnamon stick. Enjoy!

Update on my first batch of homemade apple pie bourbon:

I initially ran this infusion completely unsweetened for a full week, and it became too fiery. 🔥 Lesson learned—baking spices and high-proof need something to soften the edges.

I just stirred in 3 tablespoons of brown sugar today to rein in the heat and bring out those warm, caramelized pie-crust notes. Letting it rest, marry, and mellow out for another three days before the next taste test.

Hoping round two hits the sweet spot. 🥃🍎🥧