Caramel Apple Martini | Elegant Fall Cocktail with Vodka

Caramel Apple Martini – Sweet, silky, and beautifully nostalgic, the caramel-flavored apple martini is a cocktail that instantly evokes cozy fall evenings, crisp orchard air, and festive holiday gatherings. Blending smooth vodka with tart apple liqueur and rich caramel undertones, it delivers a dessert-like flavor profile that feels indulgent yet surprisingly balanced. Whether you’re hosting a seasonal party,

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisines: American / Modern Cocktail

• Course: Drinks / Cocktail

• Servings: 1 glass

• Calories: ~210 kcal per serving

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Active Time: 5 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka (chilled)

• 1 oz sour apple liqueur or apple schnapps

• 0.5 oz caramel syrup or caramel liqueur

• 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice

• 0.25–0.5 oz simple syrup (optional — adjust sweetness)

• Ice cubes for shaking

Garnish Options

• Thin apple slice

• Caramel-drizzled rim

• Cinnamon sugar rim

• Caramel candy skewer (for festive serving)

Optional Flavor Enhancements

• Use vanilla vodka for a dessert-forward profile

• Add a splash of apple cider for warmth and depth

• Include a pinch of cinnamon for seasonal spice

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker

• Jigger or measuring shot glass

• Hawthorne or fine mesh strainer

• Martini glass (preferably chilled)

• Bar spoon

• Small plate for rim garnish

Chilling the glass keeps the drink extra smooth and aromatic.

Instructions 

1. Chill the martini glass
   Place it in the freezer or fill with ice water for a few minutes.

2. Prepare the rim (optional but recommended)
   Lightly dip the rim in caramel syrup and roll in cinnamon sugar.

3. Add liquid ingredients to the shaker
   Combine vodka, apple liqueur, caramel syrup, lemon juice, and optional simple syrup.

4. Fill with ice
   Add plenty of ice to achieve ideal chill and dilution.

5. Shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds
   The shaker should feel frosty in your hands.

6. Empty the chilling ice from the glass (if used).

7. Strain into the martini glass
   Double-strain for a sleek, velvety finish.

8. Garnish & serve immediately
   Add a thin apple slice or caramel drizzle for presentation.

Nutrition 

Values vary based on caramel syrup and liqueur brands.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

• Rim with caramel + crushed graham crackers for a dessert feel.

• Add a cinnamon stick stirrer for aroma.

• Use a gold-rim martini glass for elegant hosting.

• Serve alongside fall snack boards or dessert platters.

A beautiful garnish makes the drink feel luxurious and festive.

Final Thoughts

This cocktail blends nostalgic fall sweetness with modern martini sophistication — smooth vodka, crisp apple tartness, and silky caramel richness in every sip. Whether you’re planning a seasonal celebration, hosting a holiday party, or treating yourself to an indulgent evening drink, this elegant martini delivers warmth, flavor, and presentation in one refined glass.

Ashley Doyle