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Looking for the perfect fall martini that captures pure apple essence without being overly sweet? We’ve crafted this Apple Cider Martini recipe specifically for cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate balanced, seasonal spirits. After years of perfecting (and sipping) the best fall cocktails, we can confidently say this recipe strikes the ideal balance between sophisticated and seasonal.

Apple cider martini in a martini glass with apple slice garnish.

Watch 🎥: How to Make this Crisp Apple Cider Martini

What Is an Apple Cider Martini?

The Apple Cider Martini is an autumnal twist on the traditional martini, combining fresh apple cider with vodka and Cointreau. While not a true martini in the classical sense, this cocktail adopts the elegant serving style while delivering warm fall flavors in a refined package.

Side shot of a martini glass to show the smooth apple cider martini.

What you’ll love about this recipe:

  • BALANCED – The perfect balance of fresh apple cider and premium spirits creates a sophisticated cocktail that’s neither too sweet nor too strong
  • ELEVATED – The addition of fresh lemon juice and a hint of cinnamon elevates this drink beyond typical seasonal offerings

What You Need to Make an Apple Cider Martini

    • Apple Cider: Use fresh, unfiltered cider for the most authentic flavor profile
    • Vodka: A clean, premium vodka allows the apple notes to shine through
    • Cointreau: Adds depth and complex orange notes that complement the apple
    • Lemon Juice: Fresh citrus brightens the drink and balances the sweetness
    • Simple Syrup or Maple Syrup: Choose maple for additional autumn warmth
    • Cinnamon: A pinch adds wonderful aromatic depth
      Apple Slices: For garnish and visual appeal (Want to really show off? Dehydrate those apple slices and dust them with gold powder. Because nothing says ‘I have my life together’ like edible glitter.)

    How to Make an Apple Cider Martini

    1. Chill your martini glass with ice water while preparing the cocktail
    2. Fill a cocktail shaker with fresh ice cubes
    3. Add measured portions of cider, vodka, Cointreau, lemon juice, and syrup
    4. Add a pinch of cinnamon and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds
    5. Empty your chilled glass and double strain the cocktail to ensure smoothness
    • A person crafts an apple cider martini by pouring liquid into a metal shaker, with fresh apples in a wire basket nearby.
      Add the cider
    • A hand pours liquid from a jigger into a metal shaker on a marble surface, while red apples in a basket add vibrancy to the scene of an apple cider martini in progress.
      Add the syrup
    • A hand sprinkles spice into a gold shaker on a marble countertop to craft the perfect apple cider martini, with apples in a wire basket echoing the drink's flavors.
      Sprinkle in cinnamon
    • A light brown liquid resembling an apple cider martini is strained from a cocktail shaker into a martini glass on a marble surface, with two cinnamon sticks beside it.
      Shake and strain into a glass

    Expert Recipe Tips

    • Tip 1: Double straining through a fine-mesh strainer removes any apple pulp or cinnamon particles
    • Tip 2: For an elegant variation, rim the glass with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon
    • Tip 3: Store your apple cider in the refrigerator and use within 5-7 days of opening
    An apple cider martini with slices of an apple for garnish on the rim of the glass.

    How to Serve This Apple Cider Martini

    Serve in a chilled martini glass, garnished with fresh, thinly sliced apple fans. For maximum visual impact, use a mandoline to create paper-thin apple slices that float delicately on the surface.

    More Cocktail Recipes

    SEE MORE COCKTAILS

    Love this seasonal approach to classics? Explore our full collection of autumn cocktails, including our Smoky Maple Manhattan and Spiced Pear French 75.

    Apple Cider Martini Cocktail Recipe

    A sophisticated autumn cocktail that combines fresh apple cider with premium vodka and Cointreau. This elegant sipper perfectly balances seasonal flavors with classic martini sophistication.
    Print Recipe
    Apple cider martini in a cocktail glass on a white table with an apple garnish.
    Prep Time:5 minutes
    Total Time:5 minutes

    Ingredients

    • 2 oz apple cider
    • 1 oz vodka
    • 1 oz cointreu
    • 1/2 oz lemon juice
    • 1 oz simple syrup or maple syrup
    • 1 pinch cinnamon
    • Apple slices for garnish

    Instructions

    • Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add all the ingredients to the shaker.
    • Shake until chilled.
    • Strain into a martini glass and garnish with apple slices.

    Video

    Servings: 1 cocktail
    Author: Kita

    Recipe FAQs

    Can I use apple juice instead of cider?

    While possible, we strongly recommend using fresh apple cider for its richer flavor and natural sweetness.

    How can I prevent the apple garnish from browning?

    Dip apple slices in lemon juice immediately after cutting to maintain their fresh appearance.

    What’s the best vodka to use in this cocktail?

    Choose a premium vodka with a clean profile – we recommend Belvedere or Grey Goose.

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    Award-winning cocktail maker, picture taker, content writer, editor, and all around imbiber behind the Libation Chronicles and a few other fun projects.

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