Are you looking for a sophisticated yet easy cocktail to impress your guests or simply enjoy a delightful drink on a cozy night in? Look no further! This sour apple martini recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and tart, offering a refreshing twist on a classic martini. It's surprisingly quick to make, using readily available ingredients, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you still crave a delicious and healthy-ish drink. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for easy recipes and quick dinner ideas to complement their meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Apple Vodka (or regular vodka with a splash of apple liqueur)
- 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- ¾ oz Apple Cider (preferably unfiltered for a richer flavor)
- ½ oz Simple Syrup (recipe below)
- 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
- Apple slice and/or cranberries for garnish
Simple Syrup:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
Instructions:
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Prepare the Simple Syrup: Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool completely before using. This homemade touch elevates the drink significantly!
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Chill your Martini Glass: Place your martini glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before making the cocktail. This ensures a perfectly chilled drink.
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Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the apple vodka, lemon juice, apple cider, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters.
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Shake Well: Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until the shaker is well-chilled.
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Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into your chilled martini glass.
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Garnish: Garnish with a thin apple slice and/or a few cranberries for a beautiful and flavorful touch.
Tips for the Perfect Sour Apple Martini:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your cocktail will greatly depend on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for a good quality vodka and fresh lemon juice for the best results.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a sweeter martini, add a little more simple syrup. Conversely, for a tarter drink, reduce the amount of simple syrup.
- Experiment with different apple varieties: The type of apple cider you use will influence the overall taste. Try different varieties to find your favorite.
- Don't over-shake: Over-shaking can dilute your drink and make it less flavorful. Aim for a vigorous shake of about 15-20 seconds.
Variations:
- Spicy Apple Martini: Add a few slices of jalapeño to the shaker for a spicy kick.
- Cranberry Apple Martini: Substitute cranberry juice for a portion of the apple cider for a festive twist.
- Non-alcoholic version: Replace the vodka with sparkling apple cider and adjust the simple syrup to your taste.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
- Sugar: Approximately 10-15g
This delicious sour apple martini recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy responsibly!