Easy to Make Fall Cocktails

Now that it’s starting to cool down and feel more like fall here in Ohio, I thought it would be the perfect time to share some fall cocktails with you! These are all super delicious and very easy to make. You may just need to pick up a few ingredients, but all of them can be found either at a grocery or liquor store. 

I wanted to include some different options for different taste buds. So I have two warm drinks, one chilled and one room temperature option. Whether you prefer vodka, bourbon, or wine- I’ve got you covered! And if you don’t really love the taste of any alcohol, I think you’ll still love my Spiked Hot Cocoa.

apple cider sangria recipe

Apple Cider Sangria:

 
 
  • 4 oz. red wine (I used Merlot, but any blend will do)
  • 4 oz. apple cider
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1/4 apple, chopped
  • Cranberries to garnish
 
  1. Combine the wine and apple cider in a wine or cocktail glass. 
  2. Add cinnamon sticks, chopped apple pieces and fresh cranberries to garnish. 
  3. The cinnamon will eventually seep into the wine making this more of a spiced wine. And the apple cider gives it just enough sweetness.
 
So easy, but tastes amazing! Plus it’s really pretty! You could very easily make a large pitcher of this if you are serving guests too. Add ice to serve this drink chilled, if that’s your preference. 

 

cranberry vanilla cocktail recipe

Cran-Vanilla Cocktail:

 
 
  • 1 mini can (or 7.5 oz.) diet ginger ale
  • 1.5 oz. diet cranberry juice
  • 1.5 oz. vanilla vodka
  • Cranberries to garnish
 
  1. Fill a highball glass with ice. 
  2. Add the ginger ale, cranberry juice and vodka to the glass and stir gently (shaking or over-stirring will make the ginger ale go flat). 
  3. Top with cranberries to garnish.
 
This one is such a pretty drink! And it’s very light and fruity. Perfect if you want something lower calorie as well, as the only calories here are coming from the vodka.
 
 
 
 
 
 
apple cider hot toddy recipe

Apple Cider toddy:

 
 
  • 4 oz. apple cider
  • 1 oz. bourbon
  • 1-2 cinnamon sticks
 
  1. Heat the apple cider first for about 40 seconds in the microwave.
  2. Pour warmed cider into your cocktail glass.
  3. Add the bourbon and stir to combine.
  4. Add cinnamon sticks for garnish (plus adds a little spice).
  5. Enjoy! 
 

This is the perfect drink for sitting around a bonfire or while watching a movie curled up on the couch 🙂 It definitely gives you those warm & cozy feelings. 

 

 

 

 

spiked hot chocolate

Spiked Hot Cocoa:

 
 
  • 1 packet reduced calorie hot cocoa
  • 8 oz. skim milk or water
  • 1 oz. amaretto liquor
  • Light whipped cream
  • Sprinkle of cocoa powder
 
  1. Heat the milk (or water) for two minutes in the microwave. 
  2. Mix in the hot cocoa packet. I recommend using a milk frother for best results. 
  3. Add in the amaretto liquor and froth again. 
  4. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
 
Like I said earlier, if you don’t love the taste of alcohol, but want to try one of these- this is your go-to! It’s sweet and so satisfying, with no real taste of alcohol. The amaretto just gives it a little extra flavor.

 

In terms of calories (if you are concerned about that), I did not include those with these drinks. Keep in mind that alcohol is about 7 Calories per gram, but your body does metabolize alcohol differently that other food/drinks. You can absolutely enjoy a drink or two each week and still reach your goals!

As some of these drinks include other items such as apple cider, or hot cocoa, you probably won’t want to consume them several times a week, but there’s nothing wrong with treating yourself occasionally! Plus they’re perfect for enjoying with friends or for a date night at home with your significant other!

Hope you enjoy them! And if you liked those, be sure to also check out my Blue Margarita recipe too!

Happy fall 🙂

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