Cognac-Apple Cider Spritzer with Clove
A warm-weather sipper blending smooth cognac with tart apple cider and a hint of spice from whole cloves. This cocktails & beverages ready in about 7 minutes brings together cognac, apple cider, fresh lemon juice for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 1, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz cognac
- 3 oz apple cider
- 1/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 2 whole cloves
- 2 oz club soda
Instructions
- Step 1: In a cocktail shaker, add 1.5 oz cognac, 3 oz apple cider, 1/4 oz fresh lemon juice, and 2 whole cloves. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the cloves are well-infused and the mixture is chilled.
- Step 2: Strain into a highball glass filled with ice, discarding the cloves. Top with 2 oz club soda and stir gently for 10 seconds to combine without losing carbonation.
- Step 3: Garnish with a thin apple slice, noting the clove aroma rising as the cider's sweetness balances the cognac's depth.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Cognac-Apple Cider Spritzer with Clove take to make?
Total time is about 7 minutes (7 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home bartenders find this fits a single afternoon; scale up the batch for parties or pitchers.
How do I store leftover Cognac-Apple Cider Spritzer with Clove?
Refrigerate any leftover cognac-apple cider spritzer with clove in a sealed pitcher or jar for up to 3–4 days. Do not reheat — drinks are served chilled. If the recipe uses sparkling water or fresh herbs, hold those back and add fresh just before pouring so the drink stays bright and fizzy.
Can I substitute ingredients in Cognac-Apple Cider Spritzer with Clove?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Cognac-Apple Cider Spritzer with Clove for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 1 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 1). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What should I serve with Cognac-Apple Cider Spritzer with Clove?
A simple grain (rice, quinoa, or crusty bread), a quick green salad, and a steamed or roasted vegetable round out the plate. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" above for dish-specific pairings based on what you have on hand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Made it for my family gathering, and it was a hit. The clove infusion was spot on.
- ★★★★★
This is the perfect holiday drink! So refreshing and aromatic.
- ★★★★★
The clove adds the perfect warmth, and the cognac pairs beautifully with the cider. My guests loved it!
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