Grandaddy’s Cider Recipe

Warm or chilled option

Decide whether you want a warm or cold cocktail. For warm: gently heat the apple cider in a small saucepan over low heat until steaming but not boiling (about 3–5 minutes). Remove from heat and let sit 30 seconds. For chilled: place cider in the refrigerator or briefly in the freezer until cool (about 15–20 minutes).

If serving chilled, fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add bourbon, orange liqueur, lemon juice, maple syrup and bitters. Pour in the chilled apple cider (or add warm cider to a heatproof shaker and skip shaking vigorously).

Shake the chilled mixture vigorously for 10–12 seconds to properly chill and dilute. If using warm cider, stir gently with a bar spoon for 10–15 seconds to combine (shaking warm liquids can be dangerous).

Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass over the large ice cube(s) (or into a heatproof mug if serving warm).

Express the orange peel over the drink by holding it with the outer skin facing down about 2–3 inches above the glass and giving it a firm squeeze to spritz the oils onto the surface. Rub the peel around the rim and drop it into the drink or set on the rim.

Gently lay the apple slice on the ice or float it on top. Add the cinnamon stick as a stirrer; if serving warm, you can leave the cinnamon stick in the mug to infuse for a minute before serving.

Serve immediately. Offer a small spoon for stirring if the maple syrup has settled.