How much can I “can’t even” with fall? That is the question.
Everything about autumn feels irresistible right now: boots, leaves, apple picking and all the cinnamon-scented comforts. For me, the season deserves one obvious response—seasonal drinks.
I recently made a short video with my local favorites, DeLallo, and this week I’m sharing a few of my favorite fall recipes. One of them, which I’m especially excited about, is deceptively simple but incredibly comforting—my top autumn recipe so far. For now, though: cider cocktails with jam.
In the video you’ll see me with a baby bump dusted in flour, juggling a tray of jam cocktails made with one of my favorite seasonal ingredients—apple cider. The jam trend for cocktails arrived late for me, but I love the texture and flavor lift it brings. If you’re avoiding alcohol, you can simply leave out the bourbon and increase the ginger beer or add a splash of club soda. Think of it as a jammy apple punch—add fruit slices and anise for a prettier presentation.
For my first seasonal jam cocktail I used a citrus marmalade—clementine is a favorite—because a hint of orange brightens apple cider and pairs beautifully with bourbon. If using marmalade, scoop mostly jam and avoid large chunks of rind so it blends smoothly in the shaker.
I also tested versions with apple butter (excellent, just use a touch less if it’s very thick), fig jam (a top pick), and triple berry jam. Each one brings a slightly different character, and fig jam in particular was outstanding.
Cider Bourbon Jam Cocktails
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Ingredients
- 3 ounces apple cider
- 1 1/2 ounces bourbon
- 1 teaspoon your favorite jam
- 2 ounces ginger beer
- freshly grated nutmeg
- sliced apples or oranges, for serving
Instructions
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Add the apple cider, bourbon (optional) and jam to a cocktail shaker or mason jar with a few ice cubes. Shake until the jam is well combined, about 30 seconds. Pour into a chilled glass; frosty glasses work well to keep the jam from clinging to ice.
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Top with ginger beer, grate a little nutmeg over the top if you like, and garnish with an apple or orange slice. Serve with a spoon and extra jam on the side so guests can stir occasionally and keep the flavor bright. Enjoy!
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I appreciate you so much!
So much yes.