Apple ginger smash cocktail

This cocktail is sophisticated enough to serve at a dinner party, yet it's also simple enough to mix up for a spicy Friday sundowner at home.

Apple cider provides a rich, fruity base, while the ginger liqueur adds a layer of complexity with its sweet and spicy notes.

Did you know the classic “smash” cocktail dates back to the 19th century? Traditionally, a smash is a type of julep, featuring muddled mint, sugar, spirits, and ice. Over time, the definition of a smash has broadened, allowing for the inclusion of various fruits and herbs.

If you’re looking for a new happy hour drink that hits the spot, the Apple Ginger Smash is a great option. Perfect for winter, it combines the warm flavours of apple cider and ginger liqueur with the smooth kick of vodka. All garnishes are optional, of course, but highly recommended.

Ingredients

60 ml Vodka
30 ml Ginger liqueur
60 ml Apple cider
15 ml Freshly squeezed lemon juice
7.5 ml Simple syrup
Mint leaves
Thin slices of fresh ginger
Apple slices (optional)
Cinnamon sticks (optional)
Cloves (optional)

Method

Start by chilling a glass. Fill it with ice water and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Add a few fresh mint leaves and a couple of thin slices of fresh ginger to a cocktail shaker. Muddle them gently to release their flavours, but avoid pulverising them into tiny pieces.
Pour in vodka, ginger liqueur, apple cider, and lemon juice. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add simple syrup.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
Discard the ice water from your chilled glass and fill it with fresh ice.
Strain the cocktail into the glass, allowing the fine mesh to catch any small bits of mint and ginger.
Garnish with apple slices, cinnamon sticks and cloves.

Tips and Variations

The Apple Ginger Smash is a versatile cocktail that can be adjusted to suit your personal preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few tips and variations to consider:

Spice It Up: If you love a bit more heat, add a dash of ground cinnamon or a few drops of ginger bitters to the mix.
Herbal Twist: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different aromatic profile.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Substitute the vodka and ginger liqueur with ginger beer for a delicious mocktail.
Bourbon Variation: Swap out the vodka for bourbon for a richer, warmer flavour that’s perfect for colder evenings.
Cider Choice: Experiment with different types of apple cider, from sweet to dry, to find the balance you prefer.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of simple syrup to your taste. If you find the drink too tart, a little extra syrup can make a big difference.