This apple cider vodka cocktail is fresh apple cider and vodka shaken with a teaspoon of fig jam, then topped with a splash of seltzer. It takes 5 minutes and one cocktail shaker.
The fig jam is why you make this instead of plain cider and vodka. It adds sweetness and a little body, so the drink doesn't taste thin once the ice starts to melt.
I keep a jar of fig jam around for my Baked Brie with Fig Jam and for every Cheese Platter I put together, so a spoonful in a fall cocktail was an easy call.
The cider brings tart apple, the jam adds a deeper, jammy sweetness, and the vodka stays in the background. Pour one while the brie bakes.
Ingredients for Apple Cider Vodka Cocktail
Fresh apple cider. Buy the cloudy, unfiltered kind from the refrigerated section or a farm stand, not clear apple juice. Cider is tarter and has more body, and this drink has only a few ingredients. Taste it before you start, because some ciders are much sweeter than others.
Vodka. A plain, mid-shelf bottle is fine, since the cider and fig carry the flavor. Start with 1 ½ ounces and adjust from there.
Fig jam. One teaspoon gives you fig flavor without making the drink syrupy. Fig jam and fig preserves both work. No fig jam? Use simple syrup. You'll lose the fig, but the drink will still be balanced.
Seltzer or club soda. One ounce on top lightens the drink and adds some fizz. Add it last so it stays bubbly.
Garnish. Fresh figs, apple slices, orange zest, or a cinnamon stick. Use whatever you have on hand.
See recipe card for quantities.
How to Make an Apple Cider Vodka Cocktail
Mix the Jam into the Cider
Add the cider and fig jam to a cocktail shaker and shake hard. If jam is still stuck to the bottom, stir it with a fork or small whisk before moving on.
Add the Vodka and Ice
Add the vodka and a handful of ice. Shake for about 15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
Strain and Top
Strain into a small glass filled with fresh ice. Top with the seltzer and garnish.
Pro Tips
Loosen the jam first. Cold jam doesn't dissolve well in cold cider. Stir it with a splash of cider in the bottom of the shaker before adding the rest, and you won't find a lump at the bottom of your glass.
Don't shake the seltzer. Shaking carbonation in a sealed shaker builds pressure and flattens the bubbles. Pour it on at the end.
Strain over fresh ice. The ice in the shaker is already melting. New ice in the glass keeps the drink from watering down before you finish it.
Taste before you pour. If it's too sweet, add a little more seltzer. If it's too tart, add another ½ teaspoon of jam and shake again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this for a crowd?
Sure. For 8 drinks, whisk 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons of fig jam into 1 cup of the cider, then stir in the rest of the cider (3 cups total) and 1 ½ cups of vodka. Chill the pitcher. Pour over ice in each glass and top each one with 1 ounce of seltzer.
Can I use apple flavored vodka?
You can, but I haven't tried it. It will push the apple flavor harder, and some flavored vodkas are sweetened, so start with 1 ounce and taste before adding more. I'd love to hear how yours turns out.
More Cocktails to Try
- Apple Cider Sangria
- Cherry Margaritas
- Sweet Grapefruit Margarita
- Blackberry Vodka Mojito
- Five Ingredient White Sangria
- Blood Orange Wine Spritzer
- Browse all my cocktail recipes.
Apple Cider and Vodka Cocktail
Ingredients
- 1-2 oz vodka
- 3 oz apple cider
- 1 oz seltzer water
- 1 teaspoon fig jam
- handful of ice
- fresh figs, apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions
- Put apple cider and fig jam into a cocktail shaker and shake well. If fig jam doesn't mix well, use a whisk to mix.
- Add vodka. Shake again.
- Add ice to a glass and pour in. Garnish with apple slices, figs and a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Strain into a glass of fresh ice and top with the seltzer.
Notes
For a pitcher of 8, use 1 ½ cups vodka, 3 cups cider, and 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons fig jam. Top each glass with seltzer as you serve.
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer
All nutritional information provided is an estimate. For specific dietary needs or concerns, we recommend consulting a nutrition calculator or a qualified expert.
Karen Kelly
Karen Kelly is a nationally syndicated food and travel writer, founder of Seasonal Cravings, and co-founder of The Roam Report. She develops approachable seasonal recipes and covers travel and lifestyle trends. Her work has appeared in numerous media outlets, including Yahoo, Taste of Home, Apple News, NBC, FOX, and other national and regional publications.
Caitlyn Erhardt says
This looks beautiful! Love your combination of flavors and your photos are great! Wonderful drink recipe!
K says
Aren't figs just the most gorgeous addition to any recipe? Such a perfect fall cocktail recipe!
Lauren Vavala @ DeliciousLittleBites says
So much yes for this recipe! I'm heading to the farm this weekend and will most definitely be buying fresh apple cider. I have some strawberry fig jam that I think might just work too - can't wait to try this!
Ben Myhre says
This looks like a spectacular Fall cocktail. Not to mention, I love that you put figs in this great little cocktail!
Colleen says
This cocktail s indeed, beautiful, simple, and sounds devise! Can't wait to try it!
Jennifer says
I'd never have thought to put a bit of jam in a cocktail but it was genius! It added just the right amount of sweetness. Loved this cocktail!
TechieTodd89 says
hey, nice recipe, but can I use apple flavored vodka for this? will it be too much apple?
CiderSavvy says
TechieTodd89, using apple flavored vodka should be fine. It actually might enhance the apple profile of the drink without overpowering it. Just make sure not to use too sweet of a cider!
quirkyquinn says
can i make this in bulk for a party? sounds awesome but got a lot of friends lol
abacustrainer says
Seasonal Cravings delivers quick, healthy recipes perfect for busy lifestyles, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The straightforward approach and delicious results make it an excellent go-to for weeknight cooking.
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