Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsJuniperBourbon For Apples Recipe

Bourbon For Apples Recipe

Inspired by Juniper
Time15m
Serves1

spiced, classic, warming

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Ingredients

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Cocktail

Spiced Brown Sugar Syrup (makes ~6 oz)

Method

Spiced Brown Sugar Syrup (prep)

  1. 1

    Make syrup

    Combine water and brown sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the whole cloves, ground cinnamon and grated ginger if using. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture just comes to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer gently 2–3 minutes to infuse spices. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature, then strain out cloves. Transfer to a container and refrigerate. Use 1/2 oz for the cocktail and keep remainder refrigerated up to 2 weeks.

Cocktail Assembly

  1. 2

    Chill glass

    If desired, chill an old-fashioned or rocks glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes, or fill it with ice while you mix the cocktail and discard before serving.

  2. 3

    Build the drink

    Add bourbon, apple cider, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, spiced brown sugar syrup and bitters into a mixing glass or shaker filled with ice.

  3. 4

    Stir or shake

    For a slightly lighter, aerated texture, shake vigorously 10–12 seconds, then strain into an old-fashioned glass over a large ice cube. For a clearer, colder cocktail, stir gently 20–30 seconds with a bar spoon and strain over fresh ice.

  4. 5

    Garnish and finish

    Garnish with the cinnamon stick tucked into the glass and a thin apple slice on the rim. Express the oils from an orange twist over the top (optional) and drop it in. Serve immediately.

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