Crimson Crumble
The Crimson Crumble is a warm, spiced cocktail that blends apple whiskey, cranberry juice, and apple cider with a hint of cinnamon. To make this cozy drink, start by rimming your glass with cinnamon sugar, then shake together apple whiskey, cranberry juice, apple cider, lemon juice, and a touch of homemade cinnamon syrup. Pour over ice and garnish with fresh cranberries and a cinnamon stick for a festive touch. This cocktail tastes just like autumn in a glass, perfect for chilly evenings and holiday gatherings!
- 1.5 oz apple whiskey or spiced rum
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz apple cider
- 0.5 oz cinnamon simple syrup recipe below
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- Ice
- Cinnamon sugar for rimming the glass
- Fresh cranberries and a cinnamon stick for garnish
Cinnamon Simple Syrup
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions for Cinnamon Simple Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, and the cinnamon stick.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Remove from heat, let cool, and remove the cinnamon stick. Store any extra syrup in the fridge.
Instructions for Crimson Crumble
Rim your glass with lemon juice and dip it in cinnamon sugar for a festive touch.
In a shaker, combine apple whiskey or spiced rum, cranberry juice, apple cider, cinnamon simple syrup, and lemon juice. Add ice and shake well.
Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
Garnish with fresh cranberries and a cinnamon stick for a seasonal touch.
- Adjusting Sweetness: The cranberry juice adds a tart note to balance the sweetness, but if you prefer a sweeter cocktail, add a touch more cinnamon syrup or use a sweeter apple cider.
- Substitutions: If you can’t find apple whiskey, spiced rum or bourbon works beautifully to keep the warmth and depth of flavor.
- Garnish Ideas: For a more festive look, add a thin apple slice alongside the cranberries or a star anise for extra spice and visual appeal.
- Batching for a Crowd: This recipe can easily be scaled up for a crowd. Mix in a pitcher without ice, and keep it chilled until serving. Rim glasses with cinnamon sugar just before pouring.
- Seasonal Vibes: This cocktail works wonderfully with warm spices—experiment by adding a dash of nutmeg or clove to capture more of that cozy, apple pie flavor.