There’s something magical about the Bonfire cocktail. It’s warm, bold, and just a little bit smoky—like autumn in a glass. Whether you’re curled up by the fire or hosting friends on a crisp evening, this drink brings comfort and a little flair. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and every time it brings back memories of laughter around campfires and cozy nights in. So, let’s get into how to make this spicy-sweet favorite right at home.
Bonfire
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Rock glass or snifter
Equipment: Cocktail shaker (or jar with lid), strainer, jigger or measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz (45 ml) cinnamon whiskey
- 1 oz (30 ml) spiced rum
- 2 oz (60 ml) apple cider (preferably unsweetened)
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
- Ice (for shaking and serving)
- Optional garnish: cinnamon stick or apple slice
Method
- Fill your shaker with ice.
- Pour in the cinnamon whiskey, spiced rum, apple cider, and fresh lemon juice.
- Shake it well—about 15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a rock glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a thin apple slice, if you like.
Tips & Tricks
- Fresh lemon juice really makes a difference here. Bottled won’t give you that same bright zing.
- If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, no worries. A mason jar with a tight lid works just fine—just give it a good shake and strain.
- Want a little more smoke? Try torching the cinnamon stick garnish for a second or two. It’ll release a toasty aroma that makes the drink even cozier.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can mix the cinnamon whiskey, spiced rum, and apple cider ahead of time in a sealed jar and keep it chilled in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add lemon juice and shake with ice right before serving to keep it fresh and bright.
Substitutions
- No cinnamon whiskey? Use regular whiskey and add a pinch of ground cinnamon or a cinnamon stick while shaking.
- Want it less sweet? Go for unsweetened apple cider and reduce the cinnamon whiskey slightly.
- No spiced rum? Dark rum will give you a deeper flavor with rich molasses notes.
Flavor Notes
This cocktail is all about balance. The cinnamon whiskey brings a sweet heat, while the spiced rum adds depth. Apple cider softens it with a fruity base, and the lemon juice brightens everything up. You’ll get a little warmth at the back of your throat, a gentle sweetness on the tongue, and that unmistakable autumn spice in every sip.
Serving Suggestions
This drink shines best in cooler months, but honestly, it’s a hit year-round when you want something bold and comforting.
Try pairing it with:
- Grilled sausages: The smoky drink complements the char on the meat beautifully.
- Roasted marshmallows: A playful nod to its namesake—this combo is like a grown-up s’more experience.
- Pumpkin soup: The spice in both the soup and cocktail play off each other for a cozy, layered flavor.
Recipe Variations
Frosty Bonfire
- Swap the apple cider for pear nectar.
- Blend everything with ice for a slushy-style twist that’s great for warm evenings.
Forest Bonfire
- Add a splash (about 0.25 oz or 7 ml) of pine liqueur for a woodsy aroma.
- Stir it in before shaking to infuse the flavor evenly.
Beachside Bonfire
- Replace the apple cider with coconut water.
- Garnish with a lime wedge for a tropical spin.
Virgin Bonfire
- Skip the whiskey and rum.
- Use apple juice, a squeeze of lemon, and a dash of cinnamon for a non-alcoholic version everyone can enjoy.
Common Questions
When’s the best time to serve this cocktail?
Fall is perfect, especially on chilly nights—but really, anytime you want something warm and flavorful, it fits the bill.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings and mix in a large pitcher or punch bowl. Add lemon juice just before serving and offer garnishes on the side.
How can I make it less sweet?
Use unsweetened cider and cut back slightly on the cinnamon whiskey. You could also add a splash of club soda to lighten it up.
What doesn’t pair well with a Bonfire cocktail?
Super-sweet desserts can overwhelm the balance of the drink. Try to stick with savory or lightly sweet pairings.
Don’t have a shaker?
No problem! Just stir everything together in a mixing glass with ice, then strain into your serving glass.
Can I use regular whiskey?
Yes! Just add a cinnamon stick or a pinch of ground cinnamon to keep the drink’s signature spice.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails because the Bonfire always feels like a warm hug in a glass. Whether you’re sipping it solo on a quiet night or mixing up a batch for friends, it’s a comforting, flavorful drink that never goes out of season.
