Apple Cocktails for Christmas in the Big Apple

New York City comes alive during the holidays, with its dazzling lights, festive markets, and endless charm. To toast the season, why not celebrate with apple-inspired cocktails? Apples, a beloved symbol of the city, bring crisp, sweet, and spiced flavors that pair perfectly with the warmth of holiday gatherings. Here are some creative apple cocktails to enjoy in the Big Apple this Christmas.

1. Spiced Apple Manhattan

A classic Manhattan with a seasonal twist.
Ingredients:

• 2 oz apple-infused bourbon (infuse bourbon with sliced apples for 24 hours)

• 1 oz sweet vermouth

• 2 dashes Angostura bitters

• Cinnamon stick and apple slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Stir the bourbon, vermouth, and bitters with ice.

2. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.

3. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a thin apple slice.

2. Winter Apple Mule

This refreshing yet warming cocktail is ideal for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka

• 1 oz apple cider

• 0.5 oz lime juice

• Ginger beer

• Rosemary sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a copper mug with ice.

2. Add vodka, apple cider, and lime juice.

3. Top with ginger beer and garnish with a rosemary sprig.

3. Big Apple Toddy

Perfect for sipping while strolling through NYC’s holiday markets.
Ingredients:

• 2 oz apple brandy

• 1 oz spiced apple syrup (apple juice simmered with cinnamon, cloves, and star anise)

• 4 oz hot water

• Lemon wheel and clove for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine apple brandy, spiced syrup, and hot water in a heatproof mug.

2. Stir gently and garnish with a lemon wheel studded with cloves.

4. Apple Cider Sangria

A festive punch perfect for parties in the city.
Ingredients:

• 1 bottle dry white wine

• 2 cups apple cider

• 0.5 cup brandy

• 1 cup diced apples

• 1 cup cranberries

• Cinnamon sticks for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher.

2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.

3. Serve in glasses with a cinnamon stick for garnish.

5. Sparkling Apple Spritz

Light, bubbly, and festive, this cocktail is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:

• 1 oz apple liqueur

• 1 oz prosecco

• 1 oz sparkling water

• Thin apple slices for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add apple liqueur to a wine glass filled with ice.

2. Top with prosecco and sparkling water.

3. Garnish with thin slices of apple.

Pairing These Cocktails with NYC’s Holiday Magic

Enjoy these cocktails at home, or use them as inspiration for your holiday outings in New York City. Sip a Winter Apple Mule while exploring Bryant Park’s Winter Village or warm up with a Big Apple Toddy after skating at Rockefeller Center. For a true NYC holiday experience, pair your apple-inspired cocktail with festive treats like candied nuts or spiced cookies.

A Perfect Gift for Cocktail Enthusiasts

Looking to share the joy of holiday cocktails? An Art of the Cocktail gift card makes an excellent present for anyone who loves mixology. They can learn to craft these festive drinks and more at one of our immersive cocktail classes.

Celebrate Christmas in the Big Apple with the crisp, cozy flavors of apple cocktails. Whether you’re enjoying them at a party or while admiring the city’s lights, these drinks bring a taste of the season to every sip.