The Apple Butter Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. This warm and inviting drink combines the rich flavors of apple butter with the robustness of bourbon, creating a comforting beverage that feels like a hug in a glass. Whether you’re cozying up by the fire or hosting friends, this cocktail is sure to impress.

Why Make This Recipe
Making an Apple Butter Old Fashioned is a great way to blend seasonal flavors with a classic favorite. It’s easy to prepare and requires only a few ingredients. The drink brings a taste of autumn to your glass year-round. It’s perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or just a relaxing evening at home. Plus, if you have leftover apple butter, it’s a great way to use it up!
How to Make Apple Butter Old Fashioned
To make an Apple Butter Old Fashioned, you will need a few simple ingredients and a cocktail shaker. Here are the details:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons apple butter (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 dashes aromatic bitters (or orange bitters)
- ¼ cup apple cider
- 2 ounces good quality bourbon
- 1½ ounces club soda
- Coarse sugar (optional, for rim)
- Apple slices and cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Place apple butter, bitters, apple cider, and bourbon in a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously to combine.
- Rim your glass with sugar and fill it with ice.
- Pour the apple butter mixture over the ice and top it with club soda.
- Serve garnished with apple slices and a cinnamon stick if desired.
How to Serve Apple Butter Old Fashioned
Serve the Apple Butter Old Fashioned in a rocks glass filled with ice. The garnish of apple slices and a cinnamon stick not only adds a decorative touch but also enhances the drink’s aroma and flavor. This cocktail can be enjoyed on its own or paired with light snacks like cheese and crackers for a perfect evening.
How to Store Apple Butter Old Fashioned
If you have leftover mixture (before adding club soda), it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just keep it in a sealed container. When you’re ready to serve, shake it again and top it with fresh club soda and ice. However, once mixed with club soda, the drink is best enjoyed right away for optimal fizz.
Tips to Make Apple Butter Old Fashioned
- Use quality bourbon for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of apple butter according to your sweetness preference.
- Experiment with different bitters for varied flavors.
- Serve chilled for a refreshing experience.
Variation
Try using spiced apple butter for an extra kick. You can also add a splash of ginger beer in place of club soda for a spicy twist!
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this drink non-alcoholic?
A1: Yes! You can replace the bourbon with extra apple cider and keep the other ingredients the same for a delicious mocktail.
Q2: Can I make apple butter at home?
A2: Absolutely! You can easily make apple butter by cooking apples with sugar and spices until thickened. There are many simple recipes online.
Q3: Is there a way to prepare this drink ahead of time?
A3: You can prepare the apple butter mixture and store it in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Just mix with club soda when you’re ready to serve.
Enjoy this charming cocktail that combines the sweetness of apple butter with the warmth of bourbon!

Apple Butter Old Fashioned
Ingredients
For the cocktail
- 2 tablespoons apple butter Store-bought or homemade
- 2 dashes aromatic bitters Or use orange bitters
- ¼ cup apple cider
- 2 ounces good quality bourbon Use quality bourbon for the best flavor
- 1½ ounces club soda
- coarse sugar Optional, for rim
- apple slices and cinnamon stick Optional, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Place apple butter, bitters, apple cider, and bourbon in a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously to combine.
- Rim your glass with sugar and fill it with ice.
- Pour the apple butter mixture over the ice and top it with club soda.
- Serve garnished with apple slices and a cinnamon stick if desired.







