Maple Cider Side Car

A key ingredient was purposely left out of the title so that others, like me, who don't care for bourbon, would give this recipe a look. It’s a fall twist on the classic Side Car, bourbon not cognac, and of course, apple cider, maple syrup, and cinnamon. I’ll drink it over ice, but I really love it heated and served as a hot toddy. Try it…I’m pretty sure you’ll like it.

Maple Cider Side Car

Servings: 2

Cocktail

• 3 oz. bourbon

• 3 oz. apple cider

• 1 oz. Grand Marnier

• 1.5 oz. lemon juice

• 1 oz. (2 T.) maple syrup

• Pinch of cinnamon

  
  

Mocktail

• 6 oz. apple cider

• 3 oz. pear juice or non-alcoholic bourbon

• 1/8 tsp. orange extract

• 1.5 oz. (3 T.) lemon juice

• 1 oz. (2 T.) maple syrup

• Pinch of cinnamon

  
  

Garnish: Apple slices and a cinnamon stick.

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Pour over ice and garnish with cinnamon stick and apples.  Or, for the WOW factor, try infusing jumbo ice cubes with apple slices, a cinnamon stick, an orange or lemon slice, and star anise.

Create infused ice cubes with your favorite flavors.