About the Recipe
This one tastes like that moment you finally put on your softest sweater, light a candle, and press play on your favorite holiday playlist. I first made it while wrapping gifts and procrastinating on ribbon tying — the cinnamon warmth was the best part of the night.
Ingredients
2 oz apple cider (warm or cold)
½ oz maple syrup
½ oz lemon juice
Dash ground cinnamon
Sparkling water (optional for a lighter version)
Ice
Instructions
Step 1
Shake cider, maple syrup, lemon juice, and cinnamon with ice.
Step 2
Strain into a glass over fresh ice.
Step 3
Top with sparkling water if desired.
Step 4
Garnish with a cinnamon stick or apple slice.
Tips
Zero-proof by default, but a splash of bourbon or dark rum works beautifully.
Use pear nectar instead of apple for a more delicate version.
Warm it up for a hot toddy-style drink.
Pair with: gingerbread cookies, old holiday movies, or wrapping paper chaos.
Serving Tips
Glass: Mug or heat-safe glass if warm; rocks glass if chilled
Garnish: Cinnamon stick or dried citrus slice
Vibe: String lights glowing, crackling playlist in the background