If you’re looking to impress friends at your next get-together or simply want a fun and festive way to enjoy fall flavors, this Apple Cider Bourbon Shots with Cinnamon Apple Garnish Recipe is a must-try. These shots perfectly balance the warmth of bourbon, the crisp sweetness of apple cider, and a touch of spice from cinnamon, all set into a fun, gelatinous treat topped with a delightful cinnamon apple garnish. They’re easy to make, super tasty, and deliver that cozy feeling everyone loves during cooler months.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Apple Cider Bourbon Shots with Cinnamon Apple Garnish Recipe is in how simple yet essential the ingredients are. Each component adds its own unique charm — from the apple cider’s sweet tartness to the bourbon’s bold warmth, right down to the cinnamon-spiced apple pieces that crown each shot with a burst of flavor and texture.
- Gelatin (Unflavored, 2 packages): This is what transforms the liquid into those fun, firm gelatin shots so they hold their shape perfectly.
- Apple cider (2 cups): Choose a fresh, crisp cider for the best flavor; it’s the star that brings natural sweetness and autumn vibes.
- Bourbon (1/2 cup): Adds warmth and depth, so pick your favorite brand to personalize the shots.
- Ripe apples (2, peeled and diced): These provide a fresh, juicy texture and a natural base for the cinnamon sugar garnish.
- Cinnamon (1 tsp): Just the right hint of spice that complements both the apple cider and bourbon beautifully.
- Sugar (1/2 cup): Coats the apple pieces for a sweet finish that contrasts the smooth gelatin.
How to Make Apple Cider Bourbon Shots with Cinnamon Apple Garnish Recipe
Step 1: Warm the Apple Cider
Begin by pouring the apple cider into a large microwave-safe measuring pitcher. Warm it in the microwave for about 2 minutes so it’s hot but not boiling — this helps dissolve the gelatin smoothly and ensures even mixing.
Step 2: Add the Gelatin
Open the two packages of unflavored gelatin and sprinkle them evenly over the warm apple cider. Let them sit for around 5 minutes, allowing the gelatin to ‘bloom’ or absorb the liquid. This step is key for your shots to set properly.
Step 3: Stir in the Bourbon
After the gelatin has soaked, stir the mixture well to fully dissolve the gelatin. Then add your bourbon and give it another good stir so all the flavors marry perfectly.
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Carefully pour the mixture into shot glasses. Arrange these in the refrigerator and let them chill, undisturbed, for at least 4 hours. This chilling time allows the gelatin to fully set into those perfect, firm shots you want.
Step 5: Prepare the Apple Garnish
While the shots are setting, peel the apples and dice them into small, bite-sized pieces. Place the diced apples into a bowl, ready to dress with cinnamon and sugar.
Step 6: Coat the Apples with Cinnamon Sugar
In a separate small bowl, combine the cinnamon and sugar. Sprinkle this mixture over the diced apples, then stir well to coat every piece evenly. This simple topping adds a wonderful sweet-spicy crunch that complements the smooth shots brilliantly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once your apple cider bourbon shots have firmed up nicely, top each one with a few of the cinnamon-sugar-coated apple pieces. This final touch not only looks charming but adds layers of texture and flavor for an irresistible shot. Serve immediately and watch them disappear fast!
How to Serve Apple Cider Bourbon Shots with Cinnamon Apple Garnish Recipe
Garnishes
The cinnamon-sugar-coated apple pieces are an essential garnish that brings a fresh, juicy contrast to the smooth bourbon gelatin. You can also sprinkle a tiny pinch of ground cinnamon or add a thin apple slice on the rim for an elegant touch.
Side Dishes
These shots pair wonderfully with light, savory appetizers like roasted nuts, cheese platters featuring sharp cheddar or gouda, and even spiced crackers. Their sweetness and warmth make them excellent for complementing finger foods at fall parties or holiday gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive flair, serve the shots on a wooden tray lined with autumn leaves or small pine cones. Adding cinnamon sticks as stirrers can double as a garnish and a way to mix up the shots right before drinking. You can also layer the shots in clear shooter glasses for a beautiful gradient effect if you choose to experiment with adding a splash of apple brandy or caramel drizzle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers from this Apple Cider Bourbon Shots with Cinnamon Apple Garnish Recipe, cover the shot glasses tightly with plastic wrap and keep them refrigerated. They should stay fresh and firm for up to 2 days.
Freezing
Freezing gelatin shots isn’t recommended as the texture can be compromised upon thawing, often becoming watery or uneven. It’s best to enjoy these shots fresh within a couple of days.
Reheating
This recipe is meant to be served chilled, so reheating is not advised. If you prefer a warm drink with similar flavors, try heating apple cider and bourbon separately, then mixing with cinnamon and sugar to taste instead.
FAQs
Can I make these shots without alcohol?
Absolutely! You can omit the bourbon and simply increase the apple cider slightly to maintain volume. The gelatin will set just the same, creating a delicious non-alcoholic apple cider jello shot.
What type of bourbon works best?
Choose a bourbon you enjoy sipping neat since its flavor will be prominent here. Mid-range bourbons with notes of vanilla and caramel work beautifully and offer great depth.
Can I use other types of apples for the garnish?
Yes! Crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji are fantastic for this garnish, but feel free to experiment with any apple that’s firm and fresh.
How long do the shots take to set?
They need about 4 hours in the refrigerator to fully firm up, so it’s best to plan ahead, especially if preparing for a party.
Can I prepare these shots in advance for a party?
Definitely. You can make the shots a day ahead and garnish them just before serving to keep the apple pieces fresh and crisp.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something magical about this Apple Cider Bourbon Shots with Cinnamon Apple Garnish Recipe that transforms a simple drink into a festive, fun, and flavorful treat. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just want to enjoy a special seasonal indulgence, these shots deliver that cozy comfort and spirited kick in every bite. Go ahead and give them a try — I promise they’ll become a favorite at your table!
Print
Apple Cider Bourbon Shots with Cinnamon Apple Garnish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 14 shots
- Category: Beverages
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Apple Cider Bourbon Shots are a festive and fun treat perfect for gatherings. Combining the warm flavors of apple cider, bourbon, cinnamon, and a hint of sweetness, these gelatin-based shots set beautifully in the fridge and are garnished with cinnamon-sugar coated apple pieces for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 packages unflavored gelatin
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 2 ripe apples, peeled and diced
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup sugar
Instructions
- Heat the Apple Cider: Pour the apple cider into a large microwave-safe measuring pitcher and microwave for 2 minutes until hot. Remove carefully.
- Add Gelatin to Cider: Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin evenly over the hot cider and stir thoroughly to dissolve. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to bloom the gelatin.
- Incorporate Bourbon: After the gelatin has bloomed, add the bourbon to the mixture and stir well to combine thoroughly.
- Set the Shots: Pour the cider and bourbon gelatin mixture into shot glasses. Place them in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to allow the gelatin to fully set.
- Prepare Apple Garnish: Peel and dice the ripe apples into small pieces. Place the diced apples into a bowl.
- Coat Apples with Cinnamon and Sugar: In a separate small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar. Sprinkle this mixture over the diced apples and stir until all pieces are well coated.
- Serve and Garnish: Once the gelatin shots are fully set, top each shot glass with a few pieces of the cinnamon-sugar coated apples. Serve chilled and enjoy these flavorful shots.
Notes
- Use unflavored gelatin to avoid altering the taste of the shots.
- Ensure the apple cider is hot to properly dissolve the gelatin.
- The shots need to chill for a full 4 hours to set properly.
- Adjust the bourbon quantity to taste if a stronger or milder alcohol presence is preferred.
- The cinnamon-sugar apple garnish adds a sweet and spicy contrast to the tartness of the cider.
- These shots are perfect for fall-themed parties and holidays.
- Store any leftover shots covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for best freshness.
