As the crisp air of fall settles in, there’s nothing better than cozying up with a rich and indulgent cocktail. The Caramel Apple Butterscotch Cocktail is the ultimate autumn beverage, combining sweet caramel, smooth butterscotch, and the refreshing taste of apple cider. This deliciously decadent drink is easy to make and perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or a quiet night by the fire.
Ingredients:
1 ½ oz butterscotch schnapps
1 oz caramel vodka
4 oz apple cider
Ice cubes
Caramel sauce (for garnish)
Apple slices (for garnish)
Whipped cream (optional)
Directions:
Prepare the Glass: Drizzle caramel sauce inside the rim of your glass, allowing it to drip down the sides for a decorative touch.
Shake the Cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine the butterscotch schnapps, caramel vodka, and apple cider. Add a handful of ice cubes and shake well.
Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
Garnish: Garnish the cocktail with apple slices, and if you’re feeling extra indulgent, top it off with whipped cream.
Serving Tips:
Best enjoyed fresh: This cocktail is at its finest when served immediately after preparation. The crisp apple cider and sweet butterscotch flavors are most vibrant when freshly shaken.
Presentation matters: To elevate the presentation, serve the drink in a chilled glass and drizzle caramel sauce inside the rim. Add apple slices and whipped cream for an extra decorative touch, making it visually appealing for your guests.
Pair with fall treats: Complement this rich cocktail with seasonal fall snacks or desserts like caramel apples, pecan pie, or pumpkin-flavored treats for a complete autumn-themed spread.
Serve in smaller portions for parties: For large gatherings, consider serving this cocktail in smaller glasses or as a shooter so that guests can enjoy it along with other drinks and treats.
Storage Tips:
Short-term storage: While this cocktail is best consumed fresh, you can prepare the butterscotch schnapps, caramel vodka, and apple cider mixture ahead of time. Store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake well before serving and garnish just before serving.
Garnish separately: If you’re making this ahead of time for a party, avoid garnishing with apple slices and whipped cream until right before serving, as whipped cream can deflate and apples can oxidize, turning brown.
Freezing is not recommended: Due to the alcohol and apple cider content, freezing this cocktail will change its texture and flavor, so it’s not ideal for long-term storage.
Yes! To create a non-alcoholic version, simply substitute the butterscotch schnapps and caramel vodka with non-alcoholic butterscotch syrup and caramel syrup. You can also use sparkling apple cider instead of regular apple cider for a bubbly twist.
What type of apple cider should I use?
You can use either fresh apple cider or bottled apple cider for this cocktail. Fresh cider tends to have a more robust flavor, making it a great choice. If using bottled cider, opt for a high-quality brand to ensure the best taste.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the cocktail?
If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of caramel vodka or use a less sweet apple cider. Alternatively, you can add a splash of lemon juice to balance the sweetness with a hint of acidity.
Can I prepare this cocktail in advance for a party?
While the cocktail is best served fresh, you can prepare the base mixture of butterscotch schnapps, caramel vodka, and apple cider in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to shake it well before serving and add the garnishes right before pouring for the best presentation and flavor.
Conclusion:
The Caramel Apple Butterscotch Cocktail is the ultimate fall indulgence. With its rich, smooth, and sweet flavor profile, it’s a perfect treat for celebrating the season’s best flavors. Whether you’re hosting a fall party or simply enjoying a quiet evening, this cocktail will add a touch of warmth and luxury to any occasion.
Indulge in the rich and sweet flavors of fall with this Caramel Apple Butterscotch Cocktail. This delightful drink combines smooth butterscotch schnapps, caramel vodka, and crisp apple cider, creating a deliciously decadent cocktail perfect for autumn gatherings and holiday celebrations. Garnished with caramel sauce and apple slices, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients
1 ½ oz butterscotch schnapps
1 oz caramel vodka
4 oz apple cider
Ice cubes
Caramel sauce (for garnish)
Apple slices (for garnish)
Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
Drizzle caramel sauce inside the rim of a glass, allowing it to drip down the sides.
In a cocktail shaker, combine butterscotch schnapps, caramel vodka, and apple cider. Add ice cubes and shake well.
Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
Garnish with apple slices and top with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the schnapps and vodka with butterscotch and caramel syrups.
Serve in chilled glasses for a refreshing experience.
Pair with fall-themed snacks for a complete autumn gathering.