Never Decide Between Whiskey or Wine With This Apple Bourbon Bellini

Thrillist

If you've ever been torn between bourbon or bubbly, relax: your cuticle-biting life choices just got a whole lot easier. Lo and behold, this apple bourbon bellini, the signature fall cocktail recipe that captures the best of both worlds. Crisp, in-season apples fresh from the orchard, the quintessential bite that accompanies a good bourbon, and cinnamon for that spicy-sweet zing -- they only get better when you add a bit of fizz.

Apple Bourbon Bellini


Yield: 6

INGREDIENTS:
  • 6 ounces apple-infused bourbon (3 whole apples, 3 whole cinnamon sticks, ½ (750-ml) bottle bourbon)
  • 3 apples, cored and cut into wedges
  • 1-2 tablespoons water 
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 bottle prosecco
DIRECTIONS:
  • Infuse The Bourbon: Core and slice the apples. In half-gallon Mason jar, combine the apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and bourbon, pouring the latter to the rim. Ensure that the slices and sticks are completely submerged and seal tightly. Store the jar in a cool and dark place, and infuse for up to 2 weeks. When ready, strain the solids from the bourbon and discard. 
  • Make The Apple Purée: Pour the water, sugar, and lemon juice into a blender or food processor. Cover and blend until the mixture is smooth and uniform throughout, and then transfer it to a small bowl.
  • Make The Cocktail: Add a heaping tablespoon of apple purée to the bottom of each champagne flute. Pour 1 ounce of infused bourbon into each glass, and finish with a float of prosecco. If desired, drop a thin apple slice into each flute as an optional garnish. 
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