Apple Cider Martini (with Gin)

Name: Apple Cider Martini (with Gin)
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 2 oz Gin ((or vodka, but gin is preferred)); 2 oz Apple cider; ½ oz Blanc Vermouth (Lillet Blanc preferred); 1 oz Pear juice; pinch Cinnamon; Apple slices for garnish

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This apple cider martini is the perfect beverage for fall and winter! It is sweet and spiced, but still strong and stiff like a classic martini. Made with gin, vermouth, fresh apple cider, and more, this is the perfect fall sipping cocktail!

Alright, let's be honest. Sometimes we need a drink (or three) to get through the holidays with extended family. There's no shame in that! Let's at least have some good drinks to hold us over.

This apple cider martini is really great. When I made the recipe and tried it for the first time, I even shocked myself. It isn't overly sweet, but the alcohol doesn't burn the way a classic martini would.

My recipe uses high-quality apple cider, one of my favorite gins, a bit of pear juice for sweetness, and blanc vermouth with just a piiiiinch of cinnamon.

If you wan't something a little more in-your-face-fall and you're more of a tequila girly, be sure to try my Thanksgiving Margarita, which uses a lot of the same ingredients!

🎥 Watch the video of this recipe

🍸 Why you'll love my Apple Cider Martini

It isn't too sweet. There is actually no simple syrup in this recipe! All of the sweetness comes from the apple cider and pear juice, which keeps it light and fresh.
This recipe uses gin. It's no secret that I am a bit of a vodka-hater. The reason why is a bit of a long story, but at the end of the day, gin just has more flavor! Which means you don't need as much to mask the flavors.
Very fall and winter -esque! Apple cider, pear, and cinnamon. This cocktail screams crunchy leaves and chilly nights.

🥘 What you need for this recipe

Ingredients and Substitutions

Gin - I recommend gin for this recipe, but you can use vodka if that's all you have. For gin, I recommend roku or bluecoat!
Apple Cider - Use a good apple cider, a local one is best!
Vermouth - Lillet blanc vermouth is my favorite by far, and it works so well here! Another blanc vermouth can work too.
Pear Juice - I know it's a bit of an odd ingredient, but it's perfect for this drink! It adds just enough sweetness.
Cinnamon - Optional, but it adds a nice touch.

Tools and Equipment

Cocktail Shaker

📋 How to make an Apple Cider Martini

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

If desired, place martini glasses in the freezer for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Measure the necessary amounts of each liquid.

If desired, thinly slice an apple for garnishes.

Step 2: Make the Cocktail

To a cocktail shaker, add a handful of ice cubes.

Then add gin, apple cider, vermouth, pear juice, and a small pinch of cinnamon.

Close the lid tightly and shake very hard for at least 30 seconds.

Strain the drink into chilled martini glasses.

Garnish with 2 thin apple slices (optional).

Serve immediately and enjoy!

💭 Expert Tips & Tricks

Chill the glasses in the fridge in advance for a better end result!
I recommend gin for this recipe, but you can use vodka if that's all you have. For gin, I recommend roku or bluecoat!
Be sure to shake the cocktail aggressively for at least 30 seconds, but more if you can.

Recipe FAQs

Does gin go well with apple cider?

I find that gin goes very well with apple cider as it is light and floral, and not as pungent as vodka may be!

Can I make apple cider martini in advance?

Yes! To make in advance, pour all the ingredients in an airtight container. When ready to serve, shake with ice and strain.

Does this martini need simple syrup?

Most martini recipes don't use simple syrup, so I didn't include it in this one. However, if you'd like it a little sweeter, try adding ½ oz of simple syrup.

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