Best Fall Whiskey Cocktail for Thanksgiving
Best Fall Whiskey Cocktail for Thanksgiving
The leaves are turning, there’s a chill in the air, and it’s officially whiskey season! This is the time of year when cozy sweaters meet cozy drinks — and there’s truly nothing better than a fall whiskey cocktail that’s bursting with all those warm, seasonal flavors.
I’ll be the first to admit — I’m not usually a whiskey drinker. Still, this apple cinnamon whiskey smash might’ve converted me. It’s the perfect fall cocktail: easy to make, perfectly balanced, and ideal for sipping on a crisp autumn evening. It’s a delicious twist on a classic recipe, combining the warmth of a good bourbon (or your favorite bottle) with sweet apple cider and a hint of cinnamon. The final product is cozy, refreshing, and absolutely perfect for fall. Whether you’re serving it up for Thanksgiving dinner or winding down by the fire, this cozy little drink is sure to become your go-to fall favorite.
I partnered with Torani using their Sugar-Free Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup to create the most delicious whiskey fall cocktail — and let me tell you, it delivers. If we’re being honest, I’m usually running the show in the kitchen while Matt handles the cocktails. But when Torani shared their holiday plans for #AToraniThanksgiving, I couldn’t resist jumping in. I’ve used their syrups for years in my morning coffee, so experimenting with them in cocktails felt like such a fun twist. (All thoughts and opinions are, of course, my own!)
After getting inspired by Hunger Thirst Play, I gave their recipe my own spin — and made the garnish just a little cuter, because why not? A fresh mint leaf and a festive cinnamon stick take it over the top.
Creating this recipe was such a breeze. You can grab Torani’s Flavor of the Month Syrups online at torani.com for 10% off each month, which makes stocking up way too easy. Their Sugar-Free Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup is the perfect simple syrup for this drink — and it mixes beautifully with the Weller whiskey I used.
Fall Whiskey Cocktail Ingredients
APPLE CINNAMON WHISKEY SMASH fall cocktail
2 parts bourbon whiskey (or rye whiskey for a spicier kick)
1 part Torani Sugar Free Brown Sugar Syrup
1 part apple cider
splash lemon juice
3 slices of apple
6 mint leaves
Using a muddler or your cocktail shaker, muddle 3 apple slices and 3 mint leaves. Add ice cubes and remuddle.
Add whiskey, Torani Sugar Free Brown Sugar Syrup, 1 part apple cider and a splash of lemon juice to the shaker. Fill the shaker 3/4 of the way with ice. I like using large ice cubes here — they keep your bourbon drink chilled without watering it down too quickly.
Shake vigorously for 8 to 10 seconds. Strain into a high ball glass with crushed ice.
Garnish with a fresh apple slice, a mint leaf, and a cinnamon stick for a taste of fall.
What Is The Best Whiskey For A Home Bar?
If you’re putting together your home bar, I think a variety is the way to go — at least one bottle that feels a little more special occasion, and another that’s great for sharing (and happens to be one of the best whiskeys under $50). You don’t need a huge collection — just a few bottles that fit your taste buds and favorite cocktails will cover all your bases.
A Few Favorites Under $50
Some of the best affordable whiskeys come from the Buffalo Trace Distillery, and Buffalo Trace itself is a standout. It’s a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts for its complex flavors, notes of caramel, and a touch of sweetness that make it perfect for classic cocktails or sipping neat with a few drops of water.
If you like a little spice, Rittenhouse Rye is an exceptional value. It’s higher proof, bold, and full of hints of vanilla and orange peel, which makes it a great pick for Manhattans or whiskey smashes.
Another great option is Jameson Black Barrel — it’s smooth and approachable with a unique flavor profile of rich caramel and lemon zest, thanks to time in new oak barrels. And if you want something super easy to share, Crown Royal is a beloved spirit that’s soft, balanced, and always a good time to pour when friends stop by.
A High-End Pick For Sipping
For your “treat yourself” bottle, go for something elevated like a single malt scotch whisky or a premium bourbon such as Elijah Craig Small Batch. A single malt brings in barley malt, vanilla notes, and complex flavors that even casual drinkers appreciate. These make a perfect after-dinner sip or something to enjoy when you just want to slow down and savor the moment.
Fall Cocktail Garnishes & Glassware
I garnished the drink with one apple slice in the center of the glass and tucked the mint leaf behind it. I used a traditional rocks glass to lay the cinnamon stick diagonal, but this drink would also look great in a vintage cocktail glass. The mint leaf and cinnamon stick give this classic drink a fresh fall twist. It feels like a timeless classic that’s been around forever, but with a little seasonal charm.
I'm not typically a whiskey drinker, but the crisp air and colorful leaves of the fall season put me in the mood for something different. This apple cinnamon whiskey smash turned out to be particularly delicious—it really is the perfect fall whiskey cocktail!
Food Pairings with Whiskey Cocktails
This apple cider whiskey smash is the perfect accompaniment to Thanksgiving dinner or any fall gathering. It also pairs well with pumpkin pie and other fall desserts.
More Fall Whiskey Cocktails Ideas
If you’ve fallen in love with this Apple Cinnamon Whiskey Smash, you’re in good company. Once you start making fall whiskey cocktails, it’s hard to stop. There are so many delicious ways to play with those cozy flavors, and a few small twists can turn a classic drink into something completely new. Here are some of my favorite ideas to try this season.
Spice Things Up
If you like a cocktail with a little kick, make an Old Fashioned with a dash of orange bitters and a cinnamon stick. Use bourbon whiskey and one large ice cube to keep it smooth and chilled. It’s a timeless classic that always hits the spot.Embrace the Cranberry
Trade your apple cider for cranberry juice and add a squeeze of orange for a festive twist on a Whiskey Sour. It’s an easy way to bring bright, tart flavor to the mix, and it looks extra pretty in the glass.Go for the Gold
A Mint Julep might scream summer, but you can easily make it fall-ready. Muddle in a few fresh cranberries or a spoonful of pumpkin purée for a cozy variation that gives this favorite a whole new vibe.Warm Up with a Classic
When the temperature drops, there’s nothing better than a Hot Toddy. Mix Irish whiskey with hot water, lemon, honey, and a cinnamon stick for a comforting drink that feels like a hug in a mug.Try Something New
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a Manhattan with sweet vermouth and a cherry, or experiment with ginger ale, ginger beer, or even a splash of apple brandy in your favorite cocktails. There are so many different ways to make a drink your own, and that’s the best part of experimenting with bourbon cocktail recipes.
FAQs
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Honestly, you can’t go wrong with your favorite bourbon. I used Weller for this one, but any good bourbon will do the trick. If you want something smooth and balanced, Buffalo Trace Bourbon or Maker’s Mark are both a great choice. For something a little bolder, try Wild Turkey or Knob Creek Single Barrel. They each have a complex flavor profile that works beautifully in bourbon cocktails.
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You can! Mix everything except the ice and garnish, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to pour, shake it over ice (I love using large ice cubes for the perfect pour) and add your mint and apple garnish. It’s the best way to prep ahead and still get that fresh, just-made flavor.
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You’ve got options. A great rye whiskey gives a spicier kick, and Jameson Irish Whiskey or Johnnie Walker Black Label make delicious substitutes if you prefer something a little smoother. If you want to explore more of the world of whiskey, try a single malt whisky for depth or even a bourbon sour if you’re craving something bright and citrusy.
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Not at all! A mason jar works just fine if you don’t have a mixing glass. The fun part about this drink is how approachable it is — an easy way to make a classic cocktail feel special without a ton of equipment.
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This one pairs perfectly with cozy fall dishes like roasted chicken, stuffing, or anything from the grocery store bakery aisle (pumpkin pie, anyone?). It’s also a perfect companion to appetizers like cheese boards, warm bread, or even something savory like rye bread crostini.
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Absolutely. Skip the bourbon and use apple cider with a splash of soda water or orange juice, plus the Torani Sugar-Free Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup for that cozy fall sweetness. You’ll still get all the flavor, just without the alcohol, it’s just as delicious!
No matter your preference, there’s a fall whiskey cocktail out there for everyone. Lately, I’ve been having fun trying bottles that fit my favorite price point and price range. It’s such a great way to keep a well-stocked home bar without making things complicated. There’s so much great value out there, and plenty of great choices for whisky lovers, from smooth and mellow to bold and spicy.
I also love that the Torani Sugar-Free Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup works for so many cozy moments, not just cocktails. It’s just as good stirred into my morning coffee or drizzled over a warm fall dessert. Have you used Torani syrups in any of your recent creations? I’d love to hear about it!
All photos are by Belen Aquino Photography.
The Perfect Thanksgiving Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 parts whiskey
- 1 part Torani Sugar Free Brown Sugar Syrup
- 1 part apple cider
- splash lemon juice
- 3 slices of apple
- 6 mint leaves
Instructions
- Using a muddler or your shaker, muddle 3 apple slices and 3 mint leaves. Add ice cubes and remuddle.
- Add whiskey, Torani Sugar Free Brown Sugar Syrup, 1 part apple cider and a splash of lemon juice to the shaker. Fill the shaker 3/4 of the way with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 8 to 10 seconds. Strain into a high ball glass with crushed ice.
- Garnish with one apple slice in the center of the glass and tuck the mint leaf behind it. Lay the cinnamon stick diagonal across the glass.
