This Apple Cider Cocktail is the perfect spiced and spiked beverage for fall. Mix it with whiskey or bourbon or opt for a non-alcoholic version. This versatile drink is perfect as a gift or party favor for all your seasonal festivities!

For more delicious cocktail recipes, try my super popular Pink Starburst Shots, these fun White Gummy Bear Shots, and the White Chocolate Martini.

Apple Cider Cocktail

There's nothing like a toasty, warm drink to keep you cozy from fall through winter, and this apple cider cocktail is just that! I love how easy it is to customize for any occasion, whether it's spiked for adults or alcohol-free for family gatherings. And it's ready in just 15 minutes!

It’s packed with comforting spices that make it perfect for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and even Christmas celebrations. Plus, this recipe doubles as a thoughtful gift for teachers, coaches, and colleagues, or as a party favor for your guests.

Everyone can enjoy a cup, and you can adjust it to suit different tastes, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Make this once, and your friends and family will always request it!

Ingredients

Materials

Mason jars with handles: These jars are perfect for gifting. You can see all the ingredients inside. The handle adds a charming touch, making it easy to carry and enjoy.
Lids for Mason Jars: These keep the contents of each jar fresh and secure, whether you're storing or gifting them.
Plastic Cups with Lids: Use these small cups to hold the spices. They help keep the spices fresh and prevent them from spilling inside the jar.
Gift Tags with String: The gift tags are a thoughtful addition. You can add a personalized message or instructions for making the spiced apple cider. It’s a small detail that makes the gift feel extra special.
Twine or String: This is used to tie the gift tags and secure the cinnamon sticks together. It gives the whole presentation a rustic, festive look, perfect for seasonal gifts.

Spiced or Spiked Apple Cider

Apple cider packets: This is the base of the drink. It's a quick and easy way to enjoy the classic, toasty flavor of apple cider without needing to brew it from scratch. Perfect for adding to hot water.
Spices: Allspice, whole cloves, and cinnamon sticks infuse the cider with rich, warm flavors, making each sip cozy and aromatic.
Alcohol: These mini bottles of either apple-flavored whiskey or bourbon are a great option for adding a little kick to the cider. This is of course optional, so you can cater to drinkers and those who prefer a non-alcoholic version.

How to Make an Apple Cider Cocktail

See recipe card for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

Assembling the Gift Jar

Let’s start with the spice mix! I like to divide the allspice and cloves evenly among the plastic cups and snap on the lids to keep everything fresh.

A little trick: I tie two cinnamon sticks together with twine before adding them to the jar. It gives everything a charming, rustic look and keeps the cinnamon easy to fish out when it’s time to steep.

Next, it’s time to layer everything into the mason jars. I start with the apple cider packet at the bottom, then tuck in the spice-filled plastic cup and the tied cinnamon sticks. If I’m including the mini bottle of apple-flavored whiskey or bourbon, I make sure it’s nestled in there too.

The goal is to arrange everything so it’s nicely visible through the jar because it’s all about presentation! Think of it as a little sneak peek of the cozy treat inside.

Once everything’s in place, I screw on the lid and get to the fun part, decorating! I write a little message or some simple instructions on the gift tag, like “Mix cider packet with boiling water, add the spices and cinnamon sticks, and spike with whiskey if you want a boozy twist.”

Tying the tag around the lid with twine adds a sweet finishing touch that makes it feel even more special.

Making the Spiced or Spiked Apple Cider

Now, when it’s time to enjoy the apple cider, it’s super easy. For the non-alcoholic version, I just pour the cider packet into a cup and add boiling water.

Follow the instructions on the packet for the right amount. Then, I drop in the cinnamon sticks and the spice mix, letting them steep for a few minutes to bring out those warm, cozy flavors.

And for those nights when you want a little something extra, making an apple cider bourbon cocktail is a breeze. Just prepare the cider as usual, then stir in that mini bottle of apple-flavored whiskey or bourbon.

These apple cider cocktails are like an instant upgrade: warm, fragrant, and perfect for sipping on a chilly evening. Cheers to that!

Pro Tips

Use fresh spices for maximum flavor. Fresh allspice, whole cloves, and cinnamon sticks provide the best aroma and taste. If your spices have been sitting in the pantry for a while, consider getting new ones to ensure bold, cozy flavors.
Choose the right whiskey or bourbon. If you’re including mini bottles, apple-flavored whiskey or bourbon enhances the cider's fruity notes. Regular whiskey or bourbon also pairs well with the spices for a classic spiked cider.
Let the spices steep for a richer flavor. Allow the cinnamon sticks and spices to steep in the hot water for a few minutes before sipping. This will deepen the flavor and bring out the warm spices in each cup.

Recipe Variations

Other Alcohol: Try rum or vodka instead of whiskey or bourbon for a different twist. Rum adds a rich sweetness, while vodka keeps the flavors clean and bright.
Citrus Twist: Add a slice of orange or a bit of orange zest to each jar for a burst of bright, citrusy flavor. This variation pairs well with both the spiked and non-alcoholic versions.

FAQ

What alcohol goes with apple cider?

Apple cider pairs beautifully with whiskey, bourbon, rum, or even vodka. Each option adds a different twist—whiskey or bourbon enhances the warm, spiced notes, while rum adds a rich sweetness, and vodka keeps the flavor clean and bright.

What are the best apples for spiked cider?

If you’re making your own cider base, choose apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Gala. These varieties strike a balance between sweet and tart, providing a robust flavor that stands up well when mixed with alcohol.

Can I serve this cold instead of hot?

To make a cold version, mix the cider packet with warm water to dissolve it, then let it cool in the fridge. Add the spices and cinnamon sticks, allowing them to infuse in the cold cider, and serve over ice for a refreshing twist.

More Delicious Fall Recipes

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

After you try this Spiked Apple Cider Cocktail recipe, I'd love to hear your thoughts. Comment below and follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube for more delicious recipes!

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4.84 from 6 votes

Spiced or Spiked Apple Cider Gift Jars

This Apple Cider Cocktail is the perfect spiced and spiked beverage for fall. Mix it with whiskey or bourbon or opt for a non-alcoholic version. This versatile drink is perfect as a gift or party favor for all your seasonal festivities!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword apple cider bourbon cocktail, apple cider cocktail, apple cider cocktails, how to make spiked apple cider, spiced apple cider, spiked apple cider, spiked apple cider recipe, spiked hot apple cider, what to spike apple cider with

Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Servings Gift Jars

Author Tamara J.

Cost $

Equipment

Ingredients

Gift Jars

3 Mason Jars with handles
3 Lids for mason jars
3 disposable Plastic cups with lids
3 Gift tags with string
1 ft. Of twine or string

Spiced or Spiked Apple Cider

3 packets Apple cider
½ tablespoon All spice to divide evenly among jars
1 tablespoon whole Cloves to divide evenly among jars
6 whole Cinnamon sticks to divide evenly among jars
3 mini bottles Apple flavored whisky or bourbon optional

Instructions

Assembling the Gift Jar:

Prepare the Spice Mix: Divide the allspice and cloves evenly among the three plastic cups and secure the lids. Tie two cinnamon sticks together with a small piece of twine for each jar.
Assemble the Jar: In each Mason jar, place the apple cider packet, the spice-filled plastic cup, tied cinnamon sticks, and the mini bottle of apple-flavored whiskey or bourbon (if using). Arrange the items so that they’re visible through the jar.
Seal and Decorate: Close each Mason jar with its lid. Write a message or instructions for making the apple cider on the gift tag (e.g., “Mix cider packet with boiling water, add spices and cinnamon sticks, and spike with whiskey if desired”). Attach the gift tag around the jar’s lid using the remaining twine.

Making the Apple Cider:

Non-Alcoholic Version:

Pour the apple cider packet into a cup. Add boiling water according to the package instructions.
Add the provided spices and cinnamon sticks, letting them steep for a few minutes to enhance the flavor.