An Angry Orchard cocktail is crisp, refreshing, and just the right amount of sweet with a hint of spice. It’s an easy-to-make drink that highlights the bright, fruity flavors of hard cider with a little extra warmth from cinnamon whisky. Perfect for warm afternoons, cozy fall nights, or whenever you’re in the mood for something smooth and flavorful.
Angry Orchard
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I’ve learned along the way—chilling your cider beforehand makes a huge difference. It keeps the drink cool without watering it down too quickly.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 12 oz (355ml) Angry Orchard Hard Cider
- 1 oz (30ml) Fireball Cinnamon Whisky
- Ice cubes
How to Make It
- Fill a highball glass (or a pint glass for a more casual feel) with ice.
- Pour in the Angry Orchard Hard Cider.
- Add the Fireball Cinnamon Whisky on top.
- Give it a gentle stir to mix the flavors.
That’s it! Simple, crisp, and full of flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Chill Your Glass: Pop your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring to keep your drink extra cold.
- Garnish Ideas: A thin apple slice or a cinnamon stick adds a nice touch.
- Less Sweet? Use a drier cider or add a splash of club soda to balance the sweetness.
- Make It a Mule: Swap out half the cider for ginger beer and add a squeeze of lime for a zingy twist.
- Spiced Orchard: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Berry Orchard: Use a berry-flavored cider and add a splash of cranberry juice for a fruity kick.
Food Pairings
This drink pairs beautifully with:
- Barbecue – The smoky, caramelized flavors of grilled meats balance the crisp apple notes.
- Sharp Cheeses – Aged cheddar or gouda brings out the cider’s natural sweetness.
- Spicy Foods – The cider’s sweetness helps cool down the heat from dishes like tacos or buffalo wings.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
This drink is best served fresh, but you can pre-chill your cider and whisky to make assembly even faster. If you want to prep for a crowd, mix a large batch in a pitcher (without ice) and pour over fresh ice when serving.
FAQs
Can I make this without whisky?
Of course! The cider on its own is delicious, or you can mix in a splash of apple juice and a dash of cinnamon for a non-alcoholic version.
Is Angry Orchard gluten-free?
Yes! Angry Orchard ciders are naturally gluten-free.
How can I make this cocktail less sweet?
Try using a drier cider or adding a little club soda to cut the sweetness.
What’s the best season to enjoy this drink?
It’s great year-round! Refreshing in the summer, and the cinnamon notes make it cozy for fall and winter.
This has been my go-to cocktail for casual get-togethers, and it never disappoints. Whether you keep it classic or try a fun variation, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing drink that’s full of flavor. Cheers! 🍏🥂
