Prepare to elevate your autumn beverage game with the ultimate Washington Apple Drink! This iconic cocktail is a symphony of flavors, perfectly blending the smooth warmth of Crown Royal whiskey with the crisp, tart notes of sour apple schnapps and the vibrant sweetness of cranberry juice. It’s a truly delicious and refreshing drink, making it the ideal choice for any fall gathering, from casual bonfires to elegant holiday dinners.

The Ultimate Washington Apple Drink Recipe: A Perfect Fall Cocktail

As someone who has spent my entire life in Washington State, it feels long overdue to share this incredible Washington Apple Drink recipe. This isn’t just a cocktail; it’s a celebration of autumn and one of Washington’s most cherished seasonal harvests: apples! The combination of flavors is truly fantastic, embodying the crispness of fall in every sip. Even if you’re not from the Evergreen State, you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with this irresistible apple cranberry cocktail.

One of the many charms of this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re looking to craft an elegant Washington Apple Cocktail served in a martini glass, a more casual drink in a highball, or a fun, spirited Washington Apple Shot for your next party, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your serving preferences. Its vibrant color and balanced taste make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Washington Apple Drink

Crafting an epic Washington Apple cocktail requires just a few simple, high-quality ingredients that combine to create a remarkably complex flavor. The beauty lies in the balance of sweet, sour, and a hint of warming whiskey. Below is a quick overview; precise measurements and step-by-step instructions are available in the dedicated recipe card further down this page.

• Crown Royal Whiskey
• Sour Apple Schnapps
• Cranberry Juice
• Apple Slice for Garnish

Understanding Each Ingredient’s Role:

Crown Royal Canadian Whisky: This smooth, mellow Canadian whisky forms the robust backbone of the cocktail, providing a subtle sweetness and a comforting warmth that perfectly complements the apple and cranberry notes. While Crown Royal is the traditional choice, you can certainly use your favorite Canadian whisky, or even a good quality bourbon or rye for a slightly different character. For an extra boost of apple flavor, consider using Crown Royal Apple, which is specifically infused with the taste of crisp apples.

Sour Apple Schnapps: This is where the signature tart apple flavor truly shines. Sour Apple Schnapps delivers that vibrant, crisp apple essence along with a pleasant tartness that cuts through the sweetness of the other components. If you’re looking for a slight variation, an apple liqueur or a quality apple brandy can also be used, offering a richer or more nuanced apple profile respectively.

Cranberry Juice: Not only does cranberry juice provide the drink’s stunning reddish-pink hue, but it also adds a crucial layer of tartness and a touch of fruity sweetness. For a less sweet drink, opt for unsweetened cranberry juice. Alternatively, using a cran-apple blend can further enhance the apple notes, creating an even more cohesive flavor profile. Its role is essential for that perfect balance against the whiskey and schnapps.

Apple Slices for Garnish: A fresh apple slice not only makes your Washington Apple Drink visually appealing but also offers an aromatic hint of fresh apple with every sip. To prevent the apple slices from browning due to oxidation, a simple trick is to squeeze a little lemon juice over them after slicing. This small step keeps them looking fresh and appetizing for longer. Consider using a crisp, tart apple variety like Granny Smith or a sweet-tart variety like Honeycrisp for your garnish.

Essential Tools for Crafting Your Washington Apple Cocktail

To ensure your Washington Apple Drink is perfectly mixed and beautifully presented, a few basic pieces of bar equipment will come in handy. These tools are common in most home bars and make the cocktail-making process enjoyable and efficient.

• Cocktail Shaker: Essential for chilling your drink rapidly and achieving the perfect dilution without watering it down. A good shaker also helps combine the ingredients thoroughly. Many shakers come in a set with other useful tools like jiggers and strainers.
• Martini Glass or Highball Glass: The choice of glass impacts the drinking experience. A martini glass offers a classic, elegant presentation, while a highball glass allows for more ice and a longer, more casual drink.
• Jigger or Measuring Spoons: Precision is key in cocktails. A jigger ensures you use the exact proportions for a consistently delicious drink every time.

Remember, the beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. While a martini glass offers a sophisticated touch, you can serve this cocktail in a variety of ways. Scale the recipe for a large punch bowl at a party, or serve it in small shot glasses for a festive shooter. The equipment helps, but creativity in serving is always encouraged!

Crafting Your Washington Apple: Step-by-Step Guide

Making a Washington Apple Drink is incredibly simple, requiring minimal effort for maximum enjoyment. Here’s how to mix up this delightful cocktail perfectly every time. For precise measurements, refer to the printable recipe card below.

1. Prepare Your Glass: For the best experience, start by chilling your martini or highball glass. You can do this by placing it in the freezer for a few minutes or filling it with ice water while you prepare the drink. A chilled glass helps keep your cocktail cold for longer without excessive dilution.
2. Combine Ingredients: Fill a cocktail shaker about two-thirds full with ice cubes. Add 1 ounce of Crown Royal Canadian Whiskey, 1 ounce of Sour Apple Schnapps, and 1 ounce of Cranberry Juice to the shaker. The ice is crucial for proper chilling and a slight dilution that smooths out the flavors.
3. Shake Vigorously: Secure the lid on your shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when the shaker feels frosty to the touch. Shaking not only chills the drink but also aerates it slightly, creating a wonderfully smooth texture.
4. Strain and Serve: Remove the ice from your chilled glass (if applicable). Use a cocktail strainer to pour the mixed drink from the shaker into your prepared glass, ensuring no ice shards fall in. This gives you a pure, refreshing sip.
5. Garnish Beautifully: Complete your Washington Apple Drink with a fresh apple slice on the rim or floating in the drink. A thin slice of green apple (like Granny Smith) offers a contrasting color and an additional aromatic element.

Making Washington Apple Shots

For a fun, party-friendly version, you can easily transform this cocktail into festive shots. Simply use ½ ounce of each ingredient (Crown Royal, Sour Apple Schnapps, and Cranberry Juice). Combine them in a cocktail shaker with ice, shake well, and strain into a 2-ounce shot glass. These “party shooters” are perfect for kicking off any celebration.

Batching for a Crowd

Planning a larger gathering? The Washington Apple Drink scales up beautifully. For a pitcher or punch bowl, simply multiply the ingredient ratios by the number of servings you desire. For example, for 8 servings, you would use 8 ounces of each ingredient. Mix the spirits and cranberry juice together in advance, keep it chilled in the refrigerator, and add ice and garnishes just before serving to avoid dilution.

Preparation Tips and Storage Solutions

One of the great advantages of the Washington Apple Drink is how easily it can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your guests without fussing over individual drinks. Making it in advance ensures you’re always ready to serve this delightful fall cocktail.

Make Ahead & Storage:

You can pre-mix the liquid ingredients – Crown Royal, Sour Apple Schnapps, and Cranberry Juice – in an airtight bottle or pitcher and refrigerate it. This blend will stay fresh for several days, especially given the shelf-stable nature of alcohol. However, keep in mind that cranberry juice, once opened, generally has a shelf life of about a week when refrigerated. So, plan to consume any pre-mixed batches within this timeframe for the best flavor and freshness. When it’s time to serve, simply pour the chilled mixture over ice, shake (or stir if serving in a highball), and garnish.

Freezing for Fun Slushies:

Looking for a different texture? The Washington Apple Drink can be transformed into a refreshing cocktail slushie! Simply blend all the ingredients with a handful of ice until smooth and slushy. For an even richer, less diluted slushie, prepare the mixture without ice, then freeze it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. Once frozen, you can scoop it out with an ice cream or cookie scoop for a unique, boozy frozen treat. It makes for an excellent dessert cocktail on a warmer autumn day.

Creative Variations and Dietary Adaptations

The Washington Apple Drink is wonderfully versatile, allowing for numerous delicious twists and accommodating various dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find your perfect rendition!

Flavor Twists & Substitutions:

• Whiskey Alternatives: If Crown Royal isn’t available or you prefer a different profile, any smooth Canadian whisky works well. For a bolder taste, a good quality bourbon can add depth, while a rye whiskey might introduce a spicier note. You can also intensify the apple flavor by using an apple-infused whiskey, such as Crown Royal Apple.
• Apple Liqueur Variations: Instead of sour apple schnapps, try an apple liqueur for a sweeter, more dessert-like drink, or an apple brandy for a more sophisticated, complex apple essence. Each will impart a unique character to the cocktail.
• Cranberry Juice Swaps: While traditional cranberry juice offers a perfect tart balance, you can experiment with cran-apple juice for an extra layer of apple sweetness, or even sparkling cranberry juice for a bubbly, refreshing twist. For a slightly different tartness, pomegranate juice can also be an interesting substitute.
• Spiced Apple Delight: For an extra autumnal touch, consider infusing your whiskey with cinnamon sticks or star anise for a few days prior, or simply add a dash of cinnamon or apple pie spice to the shaker. A squeeze of fresh orange or lemon juice can also brighten the flavors.

Dietary Considerations:

• Vegetarian Option: This cocktail is naturally vegetarian-friendly, as all core ingredients are typically plant-based.
• Vegan Option: Please note that Crown Royal is not considered vegan by some due to its processing. Vegans should opt for a verified vegan-friendly whiskey brand to ensure the drink meets their dietary requirements.
• Gluten-Free: Many whiskies, including Crown Royal, are not typically certified gluten-free, as some may contain gluten from grains used in distillation before it’s removed. If you require a strictly gluten-free drink, ensure you use a whiskey or other spirit that is explicitly confirmed as gluten-free by the manufacturer.
• Alcohol-Free Option: To enjoy the delightful flavors without the alcohol, create a “mocktail” version. Substitute the whiskey with a zero-proof whiskey alternative and the sour apple schnapps with a non-alcoholic sour apple syrup or apple cider vinegar mixed with apple juice for tartness. Combine with cranberry juice for a family-friendly fall beverage.
• Sugar-Free: The original recipe contains 14 grams of sugar per serving, primarily from the schnapps and cranberry juice. While finding sugar-free sour apple schnapps can be challenging, you can significantly reduce the sugar content by using sugar-free cranberry juice. This adjustment allows for a healthier alternative without sacrificing too much flavor.

Perfect Pairings for Your Washington Apple Drink

The Washington Apple Cocktail, with its delightful blend of sweet, tart, and warm notes, is a versatile drink that pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods. It celebrates the best of fall flavors, making it an excellent companion to hearty appetizers, comforting main courses, and decadent desserts. Here are some menu suggestions to enhance your autumn celebrations:

Appetizers & Sides:

• Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls: The savory, cheesy goodness provides a comforting contrast to the tart cocktail.
• Easy Hasselback Potatoes: Crispy potatoes offer a delightful texture and a neutral base for the drink’s flavors.
• Easy Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip: The spicy kick of buffalo dip is wonderfully mellowed by the apple and cranberry.
• Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower: A lighter, yet still flavorful and spicy, alternative to chicken wings.
• Cheesy Bacon Potato Skins: A classic comfort food that’s rich and satisfying alongside the crisp drink.
• CrockPot Reuben Dip: The tangy, savory flavors of this dip create an exciting contrast.
• Buffalo Chicken Wontons: Crunchy and spicy, these bites are excellent with a refreshing cocktail.
• CrockPot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa: The sweetness of the glaze harmonizes beautifully with the cocktail’s profile.
• CrockPot Cranberry Barbecue Meatballs: A perfect pairing, echoing the cranberry notes and offering a sweet and tangy bite.

Main Dishes:

• Corned Beef Shepherd’s Pie: A hearty, savory dish that stands up well to the cocktail’s robust flavors.
• Smoked Sausage Gnocchi: The richness of the sausage and pasta is balanced by the tartness of the drink.
• CrockPot Bourbon Maple Pork Loin: A match made in heaven, as the pork’s sweetness and bourbon notes resonate with the drink.
• CrockPot Kielbasa with Potatoes & Green Beans: A comforting, rustic meal that’s elevated by the refreshing cocktail.
• CrockPot German Bratwurst: The savory, spiced bratwurst pairs surprisingly well with the apple and cranberry.
• Jalapeño Beer Brats: The heat and savory notes are cooled and complemented by the cocktail.
• CrockPot Guinness Corned Beef & Cabbage: A robust, flavorful dish that contrasts nicely with the drink’s fruitiness.

Desserts:

• Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dip: Creamy and spiced, it’s a quintessential fall dessert that pairs well with apple.
• Ooey-Gooey Butter Cake: A rich, sweet dessert that can be cut by the tartness of the cocktail.
• Caramel Apple Dump Cake: Enhances the apple theme and adds a layer of buttery sweetness.
• Pumpkin Snickerdoodles: Soft, spiced cookies that are perfect for a cozy autumn evening.
• Apple Cider Cookies: Another apple-centric treat that naturally complements the drink.
• Apple Cider Muddy Buddies: A fun, snackable dessert that keeps the apple flavors going.
• Maple Monkey Bread Bites: Sweet, sticky, and warm, a comforting pairing.
• Apple Pie Dumplings: A miniature version of classic apple pie, perfect with the cocktail.
• Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies: Earthy and sweet, a lovely contrast to the tart drink.
• CrockPot Fried Apples: A simple, warm apple side or dessert that highlights the cocktail’s main flavor.

Other Fall-Inspired Drinks:

• Candy Corn Jello Shots: Fun and festive for Halloween parties.
• Fireball & Ginger Ale Cocktail: A spicy, warming alternative or addition to your drink menu.
• Fireball Apple Cider: Another apple and cinnamon favorite, perfect for fall.
• Apple Cider Margarita: A tequila-based apple cocktail for those who prefer something different.
• Angry Balls Drink: A fun, energetic cocktail option.
• Guinness & Cider Beer Cocktail: A darker, more complex beer cocktail.
• Apple Pie Shot: If you’re looking for another apple-flavored shot.
• Washington Apple Drink: This very recipe, perfect for repeating!
• CrockPot Mulled Wine: A warm, spiced drink that’s ideal for chilly evenings.
• CrockPot Apple Pie Moonshine: A potent and flavorful apple-infused spirit.

Ideal Occasions for the Washington Apple Cocktail

The Washington Apple Drink is not just a seasonal treat; it’s a versatile beverage perfect for a wide range of gatherings and celebrations, especially as the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp.

• Fall Harvest Parties: Embrace the bounty of the season with a drink that celebrates Washington’s famous apple harvest.
• Thanksgiving Cocktail: Its warm, fruity flavors make it a natural fit for holiday meals, serving as a refreshing pre-dinner drink or an accompaniment to lighter courses.
• Family and Friend Gatherings: Easy to make and universally loved, it’s perfect for any casual or formal get-together.
• Lunch or Dinner Parties: An excellent choice to serve with meals, especially those featuring pork or poultry, where apple flavors complement beautifully.
• Cozy Evenings by the Fire: There’s nothing quite like a well-crafted cocktail to enjoy on a cool autumn evening.
• Game Day Celebrations: A refreshing option that’s easy to batch for a crowd of enthusiastic fans.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Washington Apple Drink

What is a Washington Apple Drink?

The Washington Apple Drink is a popular cocktail made with Crown Royal Canadian Whiskey, sour apple schnapps, and cranberry juice. It’s known for its balanced sweet and tart flavor, vibrant color, and association with the autumn season and apple-rich Washington State.

What does a Washington Apple taste like?

It offers a delightful blend of flavors: the smooth, slightly sweet warmth of whiskey, the crisp and tangy notes of green apple, and the refreshing, subtly tart taste of cranberry. It’s well-balanced, not overly sweet, and incredibly easy to drink.

Can I make a batch of Washington Apple for a party?

Absolutely! This cocktail is excellent for batching. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix them in a pitcher or punch bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve, then pour over ice and garnish as usual. This ensures you spend less time mixing and more time enjoying your guests.

What’s the best way to garnish the drink?

A thin slice of fresh apple, either on the rim of the glass or floating in the drink, is the classic garnish. To prevent browning, toss the apple slices lightly in lemon juice before adding them. You can also add a cinnamon stick for extra aroma and visual appeal, especially during the fall holidays.

Can I use Crown Royal Apple instead of regular Crown Royal?

Yes, using Crown Royal Apple is an excellent way to enhance the apple flavor in this cocktail. It adds an extra layer of crisp apple taste that blends seamlessly with the sour apple schnapps and cranberry juice, making the drink even more apple-forward.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Washington Apple Drink?

Yes, you can easily create a delicious mocktail. Substitute the Crown Royal with a zero-proof whiskey alternative and the sour apple schnapps with a non-alcoholic apple cider vinegar syrup or a blend of apple juice and a splash of lemon for tartness. Mix with cranberry juice for a refreshing alcohol-free beverage suitable for all ages.

More Great Cocktail and Recipe Ideas

Looking for more fantastic drink ideas or delicious dishes to complete your meal? Explore our extensive collection of recipes!

• Woo Woo Drink
• Apple Cider Mule
• Cinnamon Toast Crunch Shot
• Ranch Water Drink
• PB&J Shot
• Ting Mojito

Check out all of our Cocktail Recipes! Do you love recipes? Check out our copycat recipes, dessert recipes, and our CrockPot Recipes.

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Washington Apple Drink

This delicious, sweet, and tart Washington Apple Drink is the perfect blend of Crown Royal, Sour Apple Schnapps, and Cranberry Juice, ideal for any fall celebration.

Prep Time: 3 minutes

Total Time: 3 minutes

Servings: 1

Calories: 188 kcal

Author: Tammilee Tips

Ingredients

• 1 Ounce Crown Royal Canadian Whiskey
• 1 Ounce Sour Apple Schnapps
• 1 Ounce Cranberry Juice
• Apple Slice (for Garnish)

Instructions

1. Combine Crown Royal, Sour Apple Schnapps, and Cranberry Juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
4. Garnish with a fresh apple slice.

Kitchen Tools

• Cocktail Shaker
• Martini Glass

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Information Per Serving

• Calories: 188
• Calories from Fat: 9
• Fat: 1g (2% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1mg (0% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 22mg (1% Daily Value)
• Carbohydrates: 15g (5% Daily Value)
• — Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
• — Sugar: 14g (16% Daily Value)
• Protein: 1g (2% Daily Value)
• Vitamin A: 13IU (0% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 3mg (4% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 2mg (0% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (6% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

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We hope you thoroughly enjoy creating and savoring this delightful Washington Apple Drink. It’s a testament to the simple pleasures of fall and the joy of a perfectly balanced cocktail. Cheers to your next autumn celebration!