Name: Maple Bourbon Apple Cider Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 L apple cider; 2 orange slices; 2 lemon slices; 2 cinnamon sticks; 8-10 whole cloves; 3 whole star anise; 4 tbsp maple syrup; 6 oz bourbon (about 1 oz per serving); Extra cinnamon sticks; Extra star anise

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 3 reviews

If you’re hunting for the perfect cozy drink to warm your soul on a crisp evening, then you *have* to try this Maple Bourbon Apple Cider Recipe. It’s that magical blend of rich maple sweetness, spice-laced apple cider, and just the right kick of bourbon that feels like a warm hug in a mug. Seriously, once you give this a go, it will become your go-to for fall or any chilly night in. Stick with me, I’ll share all my tips to make it absolutely foolproof—and delicious.

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Why This Recipe Works

Balanced Flavor: The maple syrup adds just the right natural sweetness without overpowering the warm spices.
Layered Spices: Using cinnamon, cloves, and star anise creates complexity that wakes up your taste buds in the best way.
Simple Yet Elegant: Minimal ingredients mean it’s easy to make but tastes like you spent hours crafting it.
Customizable Kick: The bourbon gives a warming depth and you control how strong you want it, perfect for every preference.

A clear glass cup filled with warm brown spiced tea sits on a round wooden slab with bark edges, acting as a coaster. The tea has a star-shaped star anise floating on its surface and a long cinnamon stick resting horizontally across the top of the cup. Around the slab are scattered dried orange slices and more star anise. Green pine branches with hints of snow and clusters of red berries frame the scene on the white marbled surface below. The image comes across cozy and festive. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Maple Bourbon Apple Cider Recipe combines everyday ingredients with familiar spices to create something that feels seasonal but surprisingly sophisticated. Knowing why each ingredient is there helps you nail the balance every time.

Apple cider: The star of the show, naturally sweet and packed with that fresh apple flavor that’s your base.
Orange slices: Adds a bright citrus note to cut through the sweetness and refresh the palate.
Lemon slices: Provides subtle tartness, balancing the maple syrup and bourbon perfectly.
Cinnamon sticks: Classic warming spice that infuses the cider with cozy depth.
Whole cloves: Strong and aromatic, cloves add that hint of spice without dominating.
Star anise: Brings a subtle licorice flavor that rounds out the spice blend elegantly.
Maple syrup: Natural sweetener that enhances the apple cider with richer, more complex sweetness than sugar.
Bourbon: Gives warmth, subtle smokiness, and a smooth kick—choose your favorite bottle for personal flair.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

One of the best things about this Maple Bourbon Apple Cider Recipe is how flexible it is. I love playing around with the spice levels and sweetness depending on my mood or occasion. Feel free to customize—it’s your perfect warm drink after all!

Spice it up: If you prefer a stronger spice flavor, add an extra cinnamon stick or a few more cloves while simmering. Just remember: star anise is potent, so a little goes a long way.
Go lighter on the bourbon: For a gentler evening sip, simply add less bourbon or skip it entirely to keep it kid-friendly or alcohol-free.
Sweeten your way: I sometimes switch maple syrup for honey or brown sugar depending on what I have. Each adds a slightly different, but equally delicious twist.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Maple Bourbon Apple Cider Recipe

Step 1: Gather & Prep Your Ingredients

First up, get everything ready—apple cider, fresh orange and lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. I like to use a big pot so there’s plenty of room to let everything mingle. Fresh citrus slices are key; they brighten the drink and stop it from being too sugary or heavy.

Step 2: Simmer the Cider & Spices

Pour your apple cider into the saucepan and add the citrus slices along with all the spices. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat—you want small bubbles, not a rolling boil. Then turn the heat to low and let it steep for about 30 minutes. This slow infusion is what builds those rich layers of flavor, so be patient here!

Step 3: Sweeten & Strain

After 30 minutes, add in the maple syrup to taste. I usually start with about 4 tablespoons and adjust from there—it’s easier to add more than to take away! Then, strain out the citrus and spices to get a smooth, clear cider that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Serve with Bourbon & Garnish

Pour about 1 oz of bourbon into each mug, then fill the rest with your hot apple cider. For that extra touch, garnish with a cinnamon stick and a star anise pod. That little bit of flair makes it feel like a special occasion, even if it’s just Tuesday night with your favorite book.

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Pro Tips for Making Maple Bourbon Apple Cider Recipe

Low & Slow Infusion: Don’t rush the simmer—letting the cider steep gently for 30 minutes unlocks deep spice flavors without bitterness.
Fresh Citrus is Key: Using fresh orange and lemon slices makes the flavor bright and crisp, lifting the richness of the cider and bourbon.
Taste as You Go: Maple syrup sweetness is personal—start with less and add more after steeping so it’s just right for you.
Garnish Matters: Those cinnamon sticks and star anise aren’t just pretty—they add aroma with every sip that makes the experience memorable.

How to Serve Maple Bourbon Apple Cider Recipe

A clear glass cup filled with warm brown tea is placed on a round wooden slab with rough bark edges. On top of the tea floats a single star anise, and a cinnamon stick rests horizontally on the rim of the cup. The slab is decorated with dried orange slices and more star anise scattered around. The setting includes pine cones, green fir branches with bright red berries, all arranged on a white marbled surface, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love serving this with a cinnamon stick and star anise in each mug. It not only looks beautiful but adds to the aroma as you sip, making the drink feel extra special. Sometimes I toss in a twist of orange peel for a fresh zing—it elevates the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

Pair this drink with cozy fall treats like warm spiced nuts, cheddar cheese with crackers, or even apple crisp for dessert. It’s wonderful alongside roasted turkey or pork dishes if you’re enjoying it at a dinner party.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like serving this cider in clear glass mugs so the warm amber color shines through. Adding a cinnamon-stick stirrer tied with a little twine or a dried orange slice hanging on the rim adds charm. You can even heat mason jars for a rustic vibe that everyone loves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover cider (without bourbon) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It holds its flavor beautifully, and I find the spices continue infusing a bit more, which actually deepens the taste.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing this cider because the texture can change and the citrus flavors can get muted. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

To reheat, pour the cider in a small pot over low heat just until warm. Avoid boiling again to keep the flavors balanced. Add bourbon right before serving for the freshest taste.

FAQs

Can I make this Maple Bourbon Apple Cider Recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! Simply skip the bourbon, and you’ll still have a delicious, spiced apple cider that’s perfect for kids or anyone avoiding alcohol. The spices and maple syrup give plenty of warmth and sweetness on their own.
How do I adjust sweetness in this recipe?

The maple syrup amount is completely up to you. I suggest starting with less—about 4 tablespoons—and tasting after simmering. If you prefer sweeter cider, add more maple syrup in small increments to avoid over-sweetening.
Can I prepare the spiced cider in advance?

Yes, you can make the spiced cider part a day ahead (without bourbon) and keep it refrigerated. Just reheat gently before serving and add fresh bourbon to each cup for best flavor.
What bourbon is best for this recipe?

Choose a bourbon you enjoy drinking on its own—something smooth with gentle vanilla or caramel notes pairs perfectly. Avoid overly smoky or high-proof bourbons, as they can overpower the delicate cider flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Maple Bourbon Apple Cider Recipe has a special place in my heart—it’s my ultimate cozy drink for crisp evenings and any time I want to feel a little festive at home. It’s simple to make, impressively flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. I hope you give it a try and find it just as comforting and delicious as I do. You’ll enjoy every warm, spiced sip—cheers to cozy moments ahead!