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Autumn Fizz is my go-to fall cocktail every time the air turns crisp and the leaves start to change color. Its refreshing mix of gin, lemon, and sparkling cider instantly transports you to an orchard at sunset. The floral burst from lavender sugar makes it perfect for cozy evenings or small celebrations with friends.
The first time I made this was for a friendsgiving dinner and everyone asked for the recipe before they left The lavender sugar rim is now a must for us every fall
Ingredients
- Dry gin: gives a crisp botanical base Always choose a gin you enjoy drinking on its own for the best result
- Lemon juice: adds bright acidity Freshly squeezed is a must for freshness
- Agave syrup: for sweetness Use light agave for a cleaner taste and adjust to preference
- Sparkling cider: brings effervescence and mellow apple flavor Choose a high quality unfiltered cider for richer taste
- Lavender sugar or ginger sugar: coats the rim for aroma and a touch of sweet flavor Look for edible lavender or grate fresh ginger into sugar for homemade versions
- Fresh lavender sprig: makes a fragrant garnish Always use organic if possible to avoid artificial scents
- Sliced apple: is a beautiful visual touch Choose crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala for best look
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass:
- Lightly run a small amount of agave syrup around the rim of your highball glass to coat it Stickiness helps the sugar adhere evenly
- Sugar Rim the Glass:
- Dip the syrup rimmed glass into lavender or ginger sugar Ensure the surface is evenly coated for visual appeal and extra aroma
- Chill the Base:
- Add plenty of ice to a cocktail shaker This first chills your spirits quickly while diluting slightly for a smoother sip
- Mix the Drink:
- Pour in dry gin with the fresh lemon juice and your desired amount of agave syrup Seal and vigorously shake until the outside of the shaker is frosty This step cools and integrates all the flavors
- Assemble in the Glass:
- Fill the prepared highball glass with ice and strain in your just shaken mix
- Finish with Cider:
- Top up with sparkling cider pouring gently to avoid fizz overflow The bubbles lift the floral and citrus notes
- Garnish:
- Arrange a sprig of fresh lavender along with a slice of apple on the rim or floating in the glass This step adds aroma just before your first sip
I especially love using lavender sugar because it perfumes every sip and always makes this drink feel extra special One autumn my daughter helped me harvest lavender from our garden and now it is our secret ingredient in every autumn fizz
Storage Tips
Since this drink is at its best freshly mixed do not try to fully assemble ahead of time Instead mix the gin lemon and agave syrup in advance and store chilled in a sealed jar The cider should always be added just before pouring to retain its effervescence
Ingredient Substitutions
No dry gin Work well with vodka for a softer flavor If you cannot find lavender sugar ginger sugar is equally aromatic and pairs beautifully with apple cider For a sweeter drink try honey syrup instead of agave
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for Thanksgiving or autumn brunch Try pairing with sharp cheddar apple tartlets for a sophisticated appetizer Serve in chilled coupe glasses for an elegant twist over casual highballs
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Sparkling cider drinks like this one trace their roots to traditional apple harvest celebrations Gin cocktails with floral notes have long been popular in English countryside gatherings Autumn Fizz blends both traditions into a modern American classic
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap out lavender for rosemary in winter for a woodsy touch Substitute flavored ciders like cranberry for more holiday flavor Use orange zest instead of lemon for deep fall richness Add fresh herbs for a more rustic garnish Unfiltered ciders boost richness and color Serve over crushed ice for a more festive look
Success Stories
My cousin once surprised her book club with a tray of Autumn Fizz and heard from everyone that it was their new favorite fall drink We now make it for every family orchard trip as our ritual toast to the season
Freezer Meal Conversion
This cocktail does not freeze well due to the sparkling component but you can prep the gin lemon agave base a week ahead and chill Place in the freezer for twenty minutes before serving for an extra cold pour
Pour an Autumn Fizz next time you want a stunning seasonal cocktail that is effortless to make and impossible to forget Enjoy the crisp scent of fall in every sparkling sip
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use another type of gin?
Yes, you can swap in your preferred gin variety. Each will bring subtle flavor differences, so choose according to your taste preferences.
- → Is freshly squeezed lemon juice necessary?
Fresh lemon juice offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to bottled juice, enhancing the drink's overall freshness.
- → How do I make lavender sugar?
Blend granulated sugar with dried culinary lavender buds. Let it sit for several hours to infuse before using.
- → Can I substitute ginger sugar?
Absolutely. Ginger sugar provides a warmer, spicier rim and complements the apple garnish nicely.
- → What sparkling cider works best?
Choose any high-quality sparkling apple cider—look for one that's unsweetened or lightly sweetened for balance.
- → Is there a non-alcoholic version?
Omit the gin and add more sparkling cider or a splash of tonic for a refreshing, alcohol-free beverage.