If you’re craving a cocktail that perfectly captures the cozy warmth and sweet nostalgia of apple pie but with a fizzy, refreshing twist, then the Sparkling Apple Pie on the Rocks Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. This delightful drink combines the crisp, tart notes of apple cider with the creamy indulgence of caramel, a touch of cinnamon spice, and the celebratory sparkle of Brut Champagne. It’s a show-stopping sipper that feels like autumn in a glass, yet light and effervescent enough for any occasion. Trust me, once you try this enchanting concoction, it will quickly become your go-to signature cocktail for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this cocktail shines through its simple yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the rich sweetness, spicy warmth, or that lovely bubbly finish that wakes up your palate beautifully.
- 1 cup Cinnamon Apple Cider: Adds a spiced, fruity base that’s quintessentially apple pie in flavor.
- 1 cup caramel ice cream topping: Brings creamy, buttery sweetness that mimics the luscious filling of a pie.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This spice heightens the warm, aromatic profile for that perfect fall vibe.
- 2 cinnamon sticks: Used for both stirring and garnish to infuse extra spice and enhance presentation.
- 1 cup Caramel Apple Simple Syrup: Sweetens and deepens the caramel-apple flavor with a smooth syrupy texture.
- 2 cups Apple Cider: Adds refreshing tartness and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 1 bottle Barefoot Bubbly Brut Champagne: Provides the sparkling effervescence that lifts this cocktail from a traditional dessert flavor to something celebratory and elegant.
- Apple slices, caramel, gold sprinkles, and cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional): These add visual appeal and extra layers of flavor and texture.
How to Make Sparkling Apple Pie on the Rocks Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by gently mixing the cinnamon apple cider, caramel ice cream topping, ground cinnamon, caramel apple simple syrup, and apple cider in a large pitcher. Stir well so that all the flavors meld together into a silky, spiced, and sweet base that invites you to dive in.
Step 2: Prepare the Glasses
Fill your serving glasses with ice cubes to keep the cocktail refreshingly cold while maintaining the flavors. Then, add a cinnamon stick into each glass for an extra touch of spice and aroma as the drink settles.
Step 3: Pour the Sparkle
Carefully pour the spiced apple cider mixture over the ice, filling each glass about two-thirds full. Then top off each glass with the Barefoot Bubbly Brut Champagne. This sparkling wine injects bubbles and a crisp dry finish that perfectly balances the sweet ingredients.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Add apple slices, drizzle a little caramel on top, and sprinkle some gold edible glitter if you’re feeling fancy. The cinnamon sticks you placed earlier continue to infuse the drink with flavor as you sip.
How to Serve Sparkling Apple Pie on the Rocks Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is everything when it comes to turning a great drink into a memorable experience. Fresh apple slices add a crisp texture, while a drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the luscious sweetness visually and in taste. A sprinkle of gold glitter or edible sprinkles beautifies the celebration feel, and cinnamon sticks not only look charming but release an inviting aroma with every sip.
Side Dishes
This cocktail pairs exceptionally well with mild, buttery treats like soft cheese platters or toasted nuts. For something more substantial, consider serving alongside warm apple cinnamon muffins or mini pumpkin tarts to play up the fall flavors and create a cozy mood.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it in chilled coupe glasses for an elegant touch or rustic mason jars for a cozy, casual vibe. You can rim the glasses with cinnamon sugar before pouring in the drink for an extra burst of sweetness and an attractive finish. Don’t shy away from adding a cinnamon stick tied with a rustic twine ribbon if serving at a gathering — it doubles as a drink stirrer and decoration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover apple pie cocktail base (the non-bubbly mix), keep it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days to preserve freshness. It’s best to add the champagne just before serving to keep the sparkle intact.
Freezing
Because this recipe relies on carbonation from the champagne, freezing is not recommended. Frozen bubbles won’t hold, and the texture will suffer. Instead, prepare the non-carbonated base in advance, and chill it well.
Reheating
This cocktail is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is not applicable. However, if you want a warm version, consider heating the cinnamon apple cider separately with spices and caramel, then mixing with a splash of sparkling wine off the heat for a cozy spin on the classic.
FAQs
Can I make the Sparkling Apple Pie on the Rocks Recipe non-alcoholic?
Absolutely! Simply swap the Brut Champagne for a sparkling apple cider or a bubbly non-alcoholic sparkling wine. This keeps the festive fizz without the alcohol, making it perfect for all ages and occasions.
What kind of apple cider is best for this cocktail?
Choose a fresh, high-quality cinnamon apple cider, preferably homemade or from a local orchard if possible, to ensure natural sweetness and robust spice flavors that shine through the drink.
Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Yes! If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of caramel syrup or topping, or use a drier champagne. You can also add extra cinnamon or a squeeze of lemon juice to balance sweetness with tartness.
Is there a way to make this cocktail vegan?
Most components are naturally vegan except the caramel ice cream topping, which may contain dairy. Use a vegan caramel sauce or make your own with coconut cream and sugar to keep it plant-based and equally delicious.
How far in advance can I prepare this cocktail?
You can prepare the apple-cider base up to 2 days ahead and keep it chilled. Just remember to add the sparkling wine right before serving to maintain the bubbly character that makes the Sparkling Apple Pie on the Rocks Recipe so special.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow your friends or just treat yourself to a cocktail that comforts and celebrates all at once, the Sparkling Apple Pie on the Rocks Recipe is a total winner. It captures the spirit of warm spices, rich caramel, and crisp apples while delivering a bright, bubbly experience perfect for any season. I can’t wait for you to enjoy this drink as much as I do — cheers to cozy moments and sparkling delights!
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Sparkling Apple Pie on the Rocks Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A refreshing and festive cocktail recipe combining cinnamon apple cider, caramel flavors, and sparkling champagne, served on the rocks with warm spices and garnishes for an indulgent fall-inspired drink.
Ingredients
For the Drink:
- 1 cup Cinnamon Apple Cider
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 cup Caramel Apple Simple Syrup
- 2 cups Apple Cider
- 1 bottle Barefoot Bubbly Brut Champagne
For Garnish:
- Apple slices
- Caramel sauce
- Gold sprinkles
- Cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Cider Mixture: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of cinnamon apple cider, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 2 cinnamon sticks. Warm gently over low heat to infuse the spices, stirring occasionally. This warms and sets the cinnamon flavor base.
- Add Sweetness and Apple Flavor: Stir in 1 cup of caramel apple simple syrup and 2 cups of apple cider into the warmed mixture. Continue to heat just enough to blend the flavors together without boiling.
- Combine and Chill: Remove the cinnamon sticks from the mixture and allow the apple cider blend to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate until ready to mix with champagne.
- Mix the Cocktail: Fill glasses with ice (serve on the rocks). Pour the chilled apple cider mixture halfway up the glass, then top off gently with Barefoot Bubbly Brut Champagne to add sparkling effervescence.
- Garnish and Serve: Drizzle caramel ice cream topping over the drink, garnish with apple slices, a cinnamon stick, and optionally sprinkle with gold sprinkles for a festive look. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Caramel Apple Simple Syrup can be made by combining equal parts caramel sauce and apple cider, heated and mixed until smooth.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon to taste based on how strong you like the spice.
- Use chilled champagne for best bubbles and a refreshing effect.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute champagne with sparkling apple cider.
