I'm Caitlin - culinary hostess, wellness retreat curator, and homebody at heart. This blog is where I share seasonal recipes, intentional living tips, and behind-the-scenes moments from my kitchen, travels, and retreats.
Here to make healthy living feel thoughtful and approachable - one recipe, ritual, or gathering at a time.
Golden afternoons and crisp fall evenings call for a cocktail. In this post, you’ll learn how to make an Autumn Apple Cider Fizz, plus batching tips, garnishing ideas and hosting notes to help you serve it.
A seasonal cocktail that tastes like fall in a glass – refreshing, lightly spiced, and herbal in just the right ways. The combination of fresh apple cider, lemon, thyme, and a touch of Cranberry Pear or Honey Ginger Balsamic creates a delicious drink you’ll enjoy time and again. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner at home or mixing a batch to take to a party, this recipe is simple and always a crowd-pleaser.
Sparkling Water or Club Soda : for a bubbly finish
Fresh Thyme : gives a subtle, herbal aroma
EQUIPMENT
Cocktail Shaker
Muddler
Rocks Glass
Fine Strainer (Optional)
Ice
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Infuse the Thyme (Optional) : Add the lemon juice and balsamic to a shaker. Lightly muddle a sprig of fresh thyme to release its oils – just enough to bruise, not pulverize. This step is optional – you can simply garnish with a sprig of thyme as well!
Shake : Add the vodka, fresh apple cider, and ice. Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until the shaker feels cold.
Strain : Pour into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
Top : Add sparkling water and gently stir to combine.
Garnish : Finish with a fresh thyme sprig and a lemon slice or dehydrated apple wheel.
MAKE-AHEAD & STORAGE TIPS
For Events
Mix everything except the sparkling water up to 24 hours in advance. Keep chilled and covered; top with bubbles just before serving.
To Batch (6 – 8 cocktails)
1 1/2 cups vodka
1 cup apple cider
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup balsamic
Top each glass individually with sparkling water
Storage
The mixed (un-sparkled) base can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Once topped with sparkling water, enjoy immediately.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make this non-alcoholic?
Yes. Swap the vodka for extra apple cider or sparkling water. A botanical non-alcohol spirit also works well.
What type of balsamic is best?
Cranberry Pear or Honey Ginger Balsamic adds both warmth and subtle spice. A high-quality white balsamic works in a pinch as well. You can also omit this completely.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is ideal, but bottled can be used if that’s what you have on hand. Simply adjust to taste.
Can I substitute herbs?
Thyme is classic here, but rosemary pairs well with apple cider too.
Is sparkling water or club soda better?
Either works; however, sparkling water is my preference. It gives a cleaner flavor than club soda (in my opinion).
HOSTING TIPS
If you’re serving this for a crowd, set up a mini garnish tray with lemon slices, dehydrated apples and fresh thyme. Guests can personalize their glasses, and it instantly gives a prettier presentation with zero little added effort. Anytime you include your guests in the experience it’s appreciated!
A bright, crisp, herbal fall cocktail made with fresh apple cider, lemon, thyme, and a hint of warm spiced balsamic. Light, refreshing, and perfect for serving a crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
1 1/2 ounce vodka (or gin for a botanical version)
Infuse the Thyme (Optional) : Add the lemon juice and balsamic to a shaker. Lightly muddle a sprig of fresh thyme to release its oils – just enough to bruise, not pulverize. This step is optional – you can simply garnish with a sprig of thyme as well!
Shake : Add the vodka, fresh apple cider, and ice. Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until the shaker feels cold.
Strain : Pour into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
Top : Add sparkling water and gently stir to combine.
Garnish : Finish with a fresh thyme sprig and a lemon slice or dehydrated apple wheel.
Notes
Use homemade apple cider for the best flavor. For batching, mix everything except sparkling water in advance and chill until serving.
Prep Time:5 minutes
Category:Drinks, Cocktails
Method:Shaken
Cuisine:American, Seasonal
Caitlin Lindsey
post author
Caitlin is the creative visionary behind Fit to Entertain, where food, wellness, and intentional living come together. She's passionate about helping others bring joy to the table and live beautifully - one meal at a time.
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