Hey y’all! If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy-meets-refreshing cocktail, this Spiced Apple Paloma is about to become your new go-to. With crisp apple, zesty grapefruit, a hint of warm cinnamon, and smooth tequila, it’s deliciously complex yet super easy to make—perfect for everything from festive fall gatherings to a chill night in. Let’s get mixing!
Why You’ll Love This Spiced Apple Paloma
- Combines sweet apple cider with bright grapefruit for irresistible fall flavor.
- Spiced with cinnamon and a dash of ginger, it’s both refreshing and cozy.
- Ready in just 10 minutes—great for quick entertaining or impromptu cocktail hour.
- Easily customized for mocktail or punch versions.
- Makes an impressive, Instagram-worthy presentation with minimal effort.
Spiced Apple Paloma Ingredients List
- 2 oz (60 ml) tequila blanco
- 2 oz (60 ml) fresh apple cider
- 2 oz (60 ml) freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (or agave, to taste)
- 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
- A pinch of ground ginger
- Grapefruit soda, to top (about 1-2 oz/30-60 ml)
- Ice
- Apple slices, grapefruit wedges, and cinnamon sticks for garnish
- Optional: coarse salt or spiced sugar for rimming the glass
Directions: How to Make a Spiced Apple Paloma
Step 1: Rim the Glass (Optional)
Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it into a mix of coarse salt and cinnamon or spiced sugar for extra flavor and flair.
Step 2: Shake Up the Spiced Apple Paloma
In a cocktail shaker, add tequila, apple cider, grapefruit juice, lime juice, simple syrup, ground cinnamon, and ginger. Fill with ice, secure the lid, and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well chilled and combined.
Step 3: Pour and Top
Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice. Strain the spiced apple Paloma mixture into the glass. Top with grapefruit soda and give a gentle stir.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with apple slices, a wedge of grapefruit, and a cinnamon stick. Enjoy right away!
- Prep time: 6 minutes
- Total time: 10 minutes
Spiced Apple Paloma Notes & Tips
- Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice gives the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
- Try using homemade simple syrup for an extra fresh taste.
- If you prefer a less sweet drink, use unsweetened apple juice instead of cider.
Variations on Spiced Apple Paloma
- Mocktail: Omit the tequila and use all grapefruit soda or sparkling water.
- Paloma Punch: Multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher for a party-friendly batch.
- Smoky Paloma: Swap tequila blanco for mezcal for a smoky twist.
Equipment Needed for Spiced Apple Paloma
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Strainer
- Rocks glass
- Spoon
Spiced Apple Paloma Storage Instructions
Store any leftover, mixed (no soda) cocktail in a tightly sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add grapefruit soda just before serving to maintain that lively fizz.
Spiced Apple Paloma Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Delicious with roasted nuts or a spicy snack mix.
- Pairs well with Mexican-inspired appetizers like chips and fresh guacamole.
- Makes a great companion to fall cheese boards—think sharp cheddar and sliced pears.
Spiced Apple Paloma Pro Tips
- Shake with plenty of ice to achieve a frothy, well-chilled cocktail.
- For an extra aromatic experience, use freshly grated spices on top just before serving.
- Choose a high-quality 100% agave tequila for a smoother finish and fewer additives.
Spiced Apple Paloma FAQ
- Can I make the Spiced Apple Paloma ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Mix all ingredients except soda and ice in advance; store in the fridge and add soda when ready to serve.
- Can I use bottled grapefruit juice?
- Yes, but for the freshest, brightest flavor, freshly squeezed grapefruit juice is ideal.
- What’s the best sweetener for a Paloma?
- Simple syrup and agave nectar both work well—choose whichever matches your flavor preference.
Ingredients
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 2 oz fresh apple juice
- 1 oz grapefruit juice
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 1/2 oz cinnamon syrup
- 3 oz grapefruit soda
- Ice cubes
- Apple slices and cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions
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1Fill two highball glasses with ice cubes.
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2In a shaker, combine silver tequila, fresh apple juice, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and cinnamon syrup.
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3Shake well for about 10 seconds until chilled.
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4Strain the mixture evenly into the prepared glasses.
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5Top each glass with grapefruit soda and gently stir to combine.
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6Garnish with apple slices and a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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