Fireball Cinnamon Recipe

Make simple syrup with cinnamon

Combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves and liquid comes to a gentle simmer.

Add 6 whole cinnamon sticks and 1 tsp ground cinnamon to the simmering syrup. Reduce heat to low and maintain a gentle simmer for 10 minutes to extract cinnamon flavor. Stir occasionally.

Turn off heat and allow the syrup to steep with the cinnamon sticks for 30–45 minutes (longer for stronger cinnamon). Taste after 30 minutes and steep until desired intensity is reached.

Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a heatproof container, pressing gently on cinnamon sticks to release liquid. Discard solids. Cool syrup to room temperature before using in the spirit blend.

Combine base spirits

In a clean measuring vessel or large jar, pour 2 cups whiskey and 1/2 cup vodka (if using). The vodka is optional: it smooths and slightly increases the perceived 'heat' without adding heavy flavor. If you prefer a more whiskey-forward result, omit the vodka and use 2 1/2 cups whiskey.

Add 3/4 cup of the cooled infused cinnamon syrup to the spirits. Stir gently to combine.

Add 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar (or a few drops lemon juice) and 1/8 tsp kosher salt to the mixture. These small modifiers round sweetness, add brightness and enhance perceived warmth. Stir to incorporate.

Taste the blend. If you want more pronounced sweetness or cinnamon heat, add up to 2 tbsp more cinnamon syrup in 1-tablespoon increments. If it feels too sweet, add a tablespoon or two more whiskey or vodka to balance.

Transfer the combined spirit to a clean, airtight bottle or jar. Let it rest at room temperature for at least 24 hours to marry flavors; for best flavor, rest 3–7 days, shaking once a day. The longer rest mellows and integrates flavors.

Before serving, give the bottle a gentle shake. Pour into shot glasses or small tasting glasses. Lightly dust with 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon or garnish with a cinnamon stick as desired.

Store the infused Fireball-style whiskey in a cool, dark place. It will keep for several months thanks to the alcohol content; refrigerate if you prefer it chilled.