There’s nothing better than a spiked drink to enjoy when the air gets that nice crisp sensation. One of the many joys of the fall season is buying apple cider. The whole family loves cider, but we make a special grown-up cocktail drink just for us adults. This Whiskey Apple Cider Punch recipe has become a staple that we enjoy every year. Whether it’s to enjoy underneath a cozy blanket or a big party batch – you’ve got to try it!

Recipe intended for readers 21+ Please enjoy responsibly 

We make Apple Pie Moonshine every year to pass out as gifts to our neighbors, but this Whiskey Apple Cider Punch is such a favorite that we drink it all ourselves. It starts fresh from the orchard. You don’t want to make this recipe with just plain apple juice (save that for the kids). You want the genuine fresh Apple Cider that you can get from your local apple orchard.

Every year we bring home about four jugs of fresh cider from the North Georgia Apple Houses. I love using cider in recipes because it adds so much flavor and it’s stronger than apple juice. It makes a great cocktail base because you don’t have to add much for that true fall flavor.

It’s also a nice recipe to enjoy after an apple orchard trip because you’ll need fresh apples for garnish. Depending on where you live, and what’s in season, I like a sweet apple. I have used Gala, Fuji and HoneyCrisp in this drink. They look awesome floating on top and add an extra fancy touch. You can also add a slice on the drink rim.

Need a non-alcoholic drink for the kids? Try this Non-Alcoholic Apple Cider Punch Recipe

The BEST Autumn Whiskey Apple Cider Punch Recipe

So you can make a big batch of this punch recipe and portion off individual cocktails or you can let party guests serve themselves. I love to have big chunks of fresh apple floating on the top for a fun garnish. Everyone always asks me for the recipe. Sometimes, on Halloween, we’ll pass it out to the adult neighbors as they go trick-or-treating with the kids. It’s a special little touch.

How To Buy Alcohol For Your Whiskey Apple Cider Punch

There are so many great whiskeys that are reasonably priced. You don’t need to go overboard, but you don’t want to buy the cheapest option either. Irish, scotch, bourbon – there are so many choices. Don’t buy an old and complex whiskey, because you’ll be adding other flavors to make the cocktail.

For this recipe, I used Jack Daniels Tennessee Honey Whiskey because it has a slight sweet finish to it. However, I’ve also used the more expensive Widow Jane Whiskey, which tends to add a bit more spice and a stronger finish. It depends on what you prefer as the drinker. Do not purchase an apple fall blend because it will be too strong of an apple flavor with the cider.

When To Serve This Cocktail Recipe

I start to enjoy this cocktail after Labor Day to welcome the autumn season. Since it’s slightly sweet, It’s more of an after-dinner cocktail. Family members have asked me to make it for our Thanksgiving gatherings too. Of course Halloween is a great night for a big batch of it.

My Favorite Way To Serve Punch

I absolutely love a great pitcher for entertaining – like this Lenox Tuscany Classic Pitcher. If you serve the punch in a pitcher, you’ll need individual glasses. I keep it simple and cozy with mason jars, by just popping off the lid and pouring.

If you’re making a big batch, you’ll need a punch bowl. I use mine several times a year because I love to entertain. However, you don’t need to invest in an expensive one. A plastic punch bowl works well too.

What You’ll Need To Buy:

• Whiskey
• 3-4 Fresh Apples (Gala, Fuji Or HoneyCrisp)
• Cinnamon Sticks
• Ground Cinnamon
• Caramel Sauce
• Fresh Apple Cider
• Punch Bowl or Pitcher With Individual Serving Glasses

Step-By-Step Directions For Whiskey Apple Cider Punch Recipe

In your punch bowl or pitcher, add 8 ounces of Whiskey, a dash of cinnamon, two teaspoons of caramel sauce and fill the remainder with fresh apple cider. Mix (or shake) well.

Garnish with cinnamon sticks and apple slices. To prepare an individual serving, add an apple slice wedge to the edge of a cocktail and pour punch over ice. Add two cinnamon sticks (optional). Enjoy!