Bourbon Apple Cider Shrub Cocktail

The flavorful shrub acts as a simple apple-infused vinegary syrup that creates a sublime cocktail. Bourbon Apple Cider Shrub Cocktails are smooth, complex and rich. *total time does not include amount of time to rest the shrub. ***See notes to make a mocktail.

Course Cocktail, Drink

Cuisine American

Keyword Apple Cocktails, Apple Shrub, Shrub Cocktail

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings Cocktail

Calories 221kcal

Author Traci York

Ingredients

For the Apple Cider Shrub:

1 1/2 cup Apples shredded (your favorite variety), 240 grams
1 cup Organic Cane Sugar 224 grams
2 Star Anise Pods * optional
1 Stick of Cinnamon
3/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar 190 grams, or a little more or less as needed

For the Cocktail:

1 1/2 ounces Bourbon 43 grams
1 ounces Apple Cider Shrub 28 grams, adjust this to your taste if needed
1 ounces Apple Cider 28 grams
Club Soda
Slices Apple for Garnish

Instructions

Make the Shrub:

In a mixing bowl, use a box greater to grate the apples, skins on. Add the sugar, anise pods and cinnamon stick. Stir throughly, cover and refrigerate for up to 48 hours (I find 24 hour works well for me).
Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer and into a measuring cup pressing the solids to squeeze out as much moisture as you can. Discard the solids except the cinnamon stick.
To the syrup, add an equal amount of apple cider vinegar. (With this recipe I get 3/4 C syrup, so I add 3/4 C apple cider vinegar). Mix well and add the saved cinnamon stick. Store in a lidded container in the refrigerator. It will save for months (I've not tested it. Mine is usually gone in a few weeks!).
Taste before using to make sure the flavor is still good. Discard immediately if it has any signs of fermentation (bubbling, slimy, or off odor).

Make the Cocktail:

In a low ball glass add the bourbon, apple shrub, and cider. Fill with ice, top with club soda and stir. Garnish with apple slices.**

Notes

**If holding the garnish for later service, slice the apples and rub lemon juice on both sides of the slices. This will stop the apples from turning brown.

***The shrub makes a fabulous mocktail for sipping. Simply replace the bourbon with more apple cider or apple juice.

Inspired by Liz's Blackberry Shrub Rum Cocktail

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