The Hot Apple Pie cocktail is pure comfort in a cup. Imagine the cozy flavors of a warm, freshly baked apple pie—but in drinkable form. It’s sweet, spiced, and perfect for chilly nights or festive gatherings. I’ve made this cocktail more times than I can count during fall and winter, and it never fails to bring a little warmth and cheer to the table.
Hot Apple Pie
Ingredients
Makes 1 serving. Prep time: 5 minutes. Total time: 10 minutes.
- 6 oz (180 ml) apple cider
- 2 oz (60 ml) Tuaca or vanilla liqueur (see substitutions below)
- Whipped cream (a dollop for topping)
- 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish)
- A sprinkle of ground cinnamon
Equipment:
- A small saucepan for warming the cider
- A mug or Irish coffee glass for serving
Method
- Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan and gently heat it over medium-low heat until warm. Don’t let it boil—just heat until it’s steaming.
- Stir in the Tuaca or vanilla liqueur. If you’re making multiple servings, you can mix the cider and liqueur in the saucepan for easier prep.
- Pour the mixture into a mug or Irish coffee glass.
- Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Sprinkle a little ground cinnamon over the top for that extra touch of warmth.
- Add a cinnamon stick as a garnish. Serve immediately while it’s hot and fragrant.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh apple cider. It makes a world of difference in flavor, especially if it’s local and unfiltered.
- Don’t overheat the cider. If it’s too hot, the alcohol in the liqueur can evaporate, and you’ll lose some of the flavor.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of allspice to the cider as it warms for extra spice.
Substitutions
- Vanilla liqueur: If you don’t have Tuaca, swap it for spiced rum, cinnamon whiskey (like Fireball), or even a splash of bourbon. Each one adds a unique twist to the drink.
- Whipped cream: Dairy-free options like coconut whipped cream work beautifully if you’re avoiding dairy.
- Apple cider: If you can’t find cider, apple juice can be used in a pinch. It’s a bit sweeter, so you may want to add a squeeze of lemon juice to balance it.
Make-Ahead & Storage
If you’re hosting a gathering, you can easily make a large batch of Hot Apple Pie cocktails. Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Keep the cider and liqueur mixture warm in a slow cooker on the lowest setting, then top with whipped cream and garnishes just before serving. Leftover cider (without whipped cream) can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated when needed.
Serving Suggestions
The Hot Apple Pie cocktail is wonderful on its own, but pairing it with the right snacks can elevate the experience:
- Sharp cheddar cheese: The savory, bold flavor balances the sweetness of the drink.
- Spiced roasted nuts: Mirror the cocktail’s warmth with cinnamon or nutmeg-seasoned nuts.
- Vanilla ice cream: A scoop on the side makes for an indulgent pairing.
Variations
Spiced Rum Hot Apple Pie
- Replace the vanilla liqueur with spiced rum for a richer, slightly more robust flavor.
Caramel Hot Apple Pie
- Add a drizzle of caramel syrup to the cider before warming, and coat the inside of the mug with caramel for a decadent treat.
Fireball Hot Apple Pie
- Use Fireball cinnamon whiskey instead of Tuaca for a bold, spicy kick that warms you from the inside out.
Virgin Hot Apple Pie
- Skip the alcohol altogether. Just warm the apple cider, top with whipped cream, and sprinkle on the cinnamon. It’s just as cozy and perfect for kids or anyone avoiding alcohol.
FAQs
Can I make this cocktail in advance for a party?
Absolutely! Multiply the recipe and keep the cider mixture warm in a slow cooker or on the stovetop over low heat. Add the toppings just before serving.
What’s the best way to make this drink look fancy?
A cinnamon stick garnish, a drizzle of caramel, or even a slice of dried apple perched on the rim of the glass can make it feel extra special.
How do I avoid making it too sweet?
Use unsweetened apple cider or tone down the whipped cream topping. You can also try adding a squeeze of lemon or a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
Can kids enjoy this drink?
Yes, just leave out the alcohol for a delicious, family-friendly version.
What other spices can I use?
Apple pie spice is a great option if you have it on hand. You can also experiment with cloves, cardamom, or even a touch of ginger for a unique twist.
This Hot Apple Pie cocktail is a little slice of fall in a mug. Whether you’re sipping it by the fire on a crisp evening or serving it at your next holiday party, it’s sure to be a hit. Cheers!
