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Autumn is the perfect season for sipping slowly.
Between weekend strolls through farmers markets and cozy evenings by the fire, I’ve been feeling inspired to reimagine classic cocktails with seasonal flavors in mind—and this Apple Butter Old Fashioned is one of my all-time favorite creations to date.
If you love a good Old Fashioned, this recipe brings the same spirit-forward structure with a touch of fall warmth.
It’s simple, elegant, and just a little indulgent—the kind of cocktail you’ll want to keep in rotation all season long.
The base is your favorite bourbon, rich and smooth with just enough heat to warm you from the inside out.
To that, I’ve added a spoonful of apple butter, which melts beautifully into the cocktail, giving it a subtly spiced sweetness and velvety texture.
A splash of apple cider brightens things up with a hint of tartness, making the whole drink feel balanced and polished.
But what really makes this recipe pop is the rim. I like to add a sugared cinnamon rim to give each sip a little sparkle—and that first impression of sweet spice never fails to impress.
Serve it over a large cube and garnish with a thin apple slice and a cinnamon stick for the full fall effect.
This drink is endlessly versatile. It’s strong enough to please Old Fashioned purists, but inviting enough for those who are just dipping their toes into bourbon-based cocktails.
I’ve served it at autumn dinner parties, holiday happy hours, and quiet nights in with a good book—and it always hits the right note.
Step 1: Rim your glass with sugar and fill with ice.
Step 2: Place apple butter, bitters, apple cider, and bourbon in a cocktail shaker.
Step 3: Shake vigorously to combine and strain into prepared glass.
Step 4: Serve garnished with apple slices and cinnamon stick.
So whether you’re hosting friends or simply indulging in a little “me time” as the leaves change, I can’t recommend this cozy cocktail enough. The Apple Butter Old Fashioned is proof that just a few thoughtful ingredients can turn a classic into something truly memorable.
Post your creation on Instagram and tag #queenbeemixology or @queenbeemixology!
