The Caramel Apple Pie Martini is a smooth, sweet, and indulgent cocktail that perfectly captures the flavors of a classic apple pie. Made with caramel vodka, apple cider, and a touch of cinnamon, this drink is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or whenever you’re craving a dessert-inspired cocktail.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tastes like apple pie in a glass – A perfect balance of caramel, apple, and warm spices.
- Easy to make – Only a few ingredients and simple steps.
- Perfect for fall and holidays – A great cocktail for Thanksgiving or cozy nights.
- Customizable – Adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Caramel vodka
- Apple cider
- Vanilla vodka (optional for extra flavor)
- Butterscotch schnapps (for extra caramel flavor)
- Cinnamon sugar (for rimming the glass)
- Caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- Ice cubes
- Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
- Apple slice or cinnamon stick (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Glass: Rim a martini glass with caramel sauce, then dip into cinnamon sugar for a sweet, spiced edge.
- Mix the Cocktail: In a shaker, add caramel vodka, apple cider, butterscotch schnapps, and ice. Shake well for 15-20 seconds.
- Strain and Serve: Strain into the prepared martini glass.
- Garnish: Drizzle with caramel sauce and top with a cinnamon stick or apple slice. Enjoy immediately!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 1 cocktail
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Stronger Cocktail: Add a splash of bourbon or whiskey for extra depth.
- Creamy Version: Mix in half-and-half or Baileys for a rich twist.
- Spiced Apple Pie: Add a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Mocktail Option: Skip the alcohol and use caramel syrup with apple cider and cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Make Ahead: Mix ingredients (without ice) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular vodka instead of caramel vodka?
Yes! Just add a bit of caramel syrup to get the same flavor.
What type of apple cider works best?
Fresh, unfiltered apple cider gives the best flavor.
Can I make this into a big batch for parties?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients and serve in a pitcher with ice.
How do I make the rim stick better?
Chill the glass before rimming to help the caramel stay in place.
What’s a good substitute for butterscotch schnapps?
You can use caramel liqueur or a splash of amaretto.
Can I make this frozen?
Yes! Blend all ingredients with ice for a frozen martini.
Is this drink very sweet?
It’s dessert-like, but you can adjust sweetness by using less caramel.
What’s the best glass to serve this in?
A classic martini glass or coupe glass works best.
Can I use spiced rum instead of vodka?
Absolutely! Spiced rum adds a nice warmth to the drink.
What other garnishes can I use?
Try a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or a drizzle of melted white chocolate.
Conclusion
The Caramel Apple Pie Martini is the ultimate fall cocktail, bringing together the cozy flavors of caramel, apple, and spice in a smooth and festive drink. Whether you’re sipping it by the fire or serving it at a party, this dessert-inspired martini is sure to impress. Try different variations, garnish it beautifully, and enjoy a taste of autumn in every sip!
Print
Caramel Apple Pie Martini Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Caramel Apple Pie Martini is a deliciously sweet and creamy cocktail with flavors of caramel, cinnamon, and crisp apple. It’s like a slice of apple pie in a glass—perfect for autumn gatherings, Thanksgiving, or a cozy night in!
Ingredients
- 2 oz caramel vodka (or vanilla vodka)
- 2 oz apple cider
- 1 oz butterscotch schnapps (or caramel liqueur)
- 1 oz heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or a cinnamon stick for garnish)
- Caramel sauce, for rimming the glass
- Crushed graham crackers or cinnamon sugar, for rimming
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Apple slices, for garnish
Instructions
-
Prepare the glass:
- Drizzle caramel sauce around the rim of a martini glass.
- Dip the rim into crushed graham crackers or cinnamon sugar.
-
Mix the cocktail:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add caramel vodka, apple cider, butterscotch schnapps, heavy cream, and cinnamon.
- Shake well for about 10-15 seconds until chilled.
-
Serve:
- Strain into the prepared martini glass.
- Top with whipped cream and garnish with an apple slice and cinnamon stick.
-
Enjoy!
Notes
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or almond milk.
- Stronger Cocktail: Add ½ oz Fireball or spiced rum for an extra kick.
- Mocktail Version: Replace vodka and schnapps with caramel syrup and use extra apple cider.