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Autumn Aperol Apple Cider Margarita

This cozy, sweet, and warming fall margarita blends mezcal or tequila with citrusy Aperol, orange liqueur, spiced apple cider, and fresh-squeezed lime juice. To top it off, add apple slices and a smoking cinnamon stick for that extra smoky touch. Want a non-alcoholic version? Try my delicious mocktail variation!

Okay, this is wild, but today I’m kicking off the season with the first of many fall and winter holiday cocktails! Since Halloween’s just around the corner (this Thursday!), it’s time to move from spooky sips to something a little more refined for the upcoming cozy months.

I went back and forth—should I share another creepy drink or something perfect for Thanksgiving? But honestly, this margarita won me over. I just had to share it!

I actually came up with this drink a year ago but never got to post it before fall slipped away. Now, I’m so excited for you to try it! It’s a twist on my classic apple cider margarita, but with citrusy Aperol—which pairs amazingly with the warm cinnamon and spices.

Here’s the Breakdown

For the Sugar Rim:

  • Coarse sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Cinnamon
  • Orange wedges

The Margarita:

  • Mezcal or silver tequila
  • Aperol
  • Orange liqueur
  • Apple cider
  • Lime juice
  • Apple slices, star anise, and cinnamon sticks (for garnish)

Mocktail Version:

  • Lime juice
  • Apple cider
  • Orange juice
  • Vanilla extract
  • Apple slices, star anise, and cinnamon sticks (for garnish)

Steps

Step 1: The Sugar Rim

Just mix coarse sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon—nothing makes a drink feel more special than a glittery rim. I’m all about festive rims, both for flavor and looks.

Run an orange wedge around the glass edge, then dip it into the sugar mix.

Step 2: The Margarita

Super simple! Shake together mezcal (or tequila) with Aperol, apple cider, and lime juice. You can use either spirit—mezcal adds a warm, smoky depth that’s perfect for fall, but go with whatever you prefer!

Step 3: Garnishes

Fill your sugar-rimmed glass with ice, then pour in the margarita.

Toss in a few apple slices, maybe a star anise if you’ve got one, and a cinnamon stick. (Pro tip: Light the cinnamon stick for an incredible aroma!)

This drink is the definition of cozy—perfect for impressing guests!

I really hope you love this one! And get ready—I’ve got so many holiday cocktails lined up. My list is endless!

Looking for more fall cocktail inspo? Try these:

  • Haunted Pumpkin Patch Margarita
  • “I Put a Spell on You” Poison Apple Martini
  • The Goblet of Fire Cocktail
  • Nightmare on Bourbon Street
  • The Black Widow Smash
  • The Deathly Hallows Cocktail
  • The Golden Snitch Cocktail
  • Pumpkin Patch Punch
  • Hocus Pocus Old Fashioned

Finally, if you make this Autumn Aperol Apple Cider Margarita, drop a comment or rating—I love hearing from you and always do my best to reply. And if you post it on Instagram, tag me! Seeing your recreations is my absolute favorite.