The Washington Apple is a cocktail that effortlessly blends sweet, tart, and fruity notes into one perfectly balanced drink.
Combining Canadian whisky, sour apple schnapps, and cranberry juice, it’s a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Whether you know it as a sophisticated martini or a fun party shot, this drink has a broad appeal that has cemented its place as a modern classic.
Flavor: Sweet, Fruity, and Tangy
The Washington Apple delivers a multi-layered sensory experience. Its bright, reddish hue is inviting, hinting at the fruity flavors within.
- Aroma: The initial aroma is dominated by crisp, green apple from the schnapps, with subtle undertones of sweet cranberry.
- Taste: The first sip is a delightful mix of sweet and sour. The sharp tartness of the sour apple schnapps and cranberry juice is beautifully balanced by the smooth, mellow character of the Canadian whisky.
- Mouthfeel: The cocktail is smooth and light, making it incredibly easy to drink. When served chilled, it’s crisp and refreshing.
How to Make the Perfect Washington Apple Cocktail
This recipe uses a simple 1:1:1 ratio, making it easy to remember and scale.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Canadian Whisky: Crown Royal is the traditional choice and its smoothness complements the fruit flavors perfectly.
- 1 oz Sour Apple Schnapps: DeKuyper Sour Apple Pucker is the most common brand and provides that signature tangy kick.
- 1 oz Cranberry Juice: Use a quality brand of sweetened cranberry juice for the best balance.
- Garnish: A fresh apple slice.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Chill Your Glass: Place your cocktail glass (a martini or coupe glass works well) in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before mixing. A chilled glass keeps your drink colder for longer.
- Gather Ingredients: Measure out the Canadian whisky, sour apple schnapps, and cranberry juice.
- Shake It Up: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add all three liquid ingredients to the shaker.
- Shake Well: Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. The outside of the shaker should feel frosty.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into your chilled cocktail glass to remove the ice shards.
- Garnish: Garnish with a fresh apple slice. To prevent it from browning, you can squeeze a little lemon juice over the slice before placing it on the rim of the glass.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and proportions you use.
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount |
| ABV (Alcohol By Volume) | ~16% (32 proof) |
| Calories | 150-200 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15-20 g |
| Sugar | 15-20 g |
This cocktail is relatively light in alcohol compared to other martinis, but its sweet and easy-drinking nature can be deceptive. Remember to enjoy it responsibly.
Exciting Variations to Try
One of the best things about the Washington Apple is its versatility. Here are some popular variations to explore:
The Washington Apple Shot
Perfect for parties, the shot version is a concentrated burst of flavor.
- Recipe: Mix ½ oz of each ingredient (Canadian whisky, sour apple schnapps, and cranberry juice) in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a shot glass.
Whisky Variations
While Crown Royal Deluxe is the classic choice, experimenting with other whiskies can create new flavor profiles.
- Crown Royal Regal Apple: This will intensify the apple flavor for a fruitier drink.
- Crown Royal Black: With its bolder, more robust flavor, this whisky adds depth, making it an excellent choice for a more sophisticated martini version.
- Other Canadian Whiskies: Any smooth, blended Canadian whisky will work well.
Liqueur Swaps
If sour isn’t your thing, you can easily swap the schnapps.
- Apple Liqueur: Use a high-quality apple liqueur like Berentzen for a sweeter, less tart apple flavor.
- Calvados: For a more refined and complex taste, try using Calvados, a French apple brandy. This will create a less sweet and more spirit-forward cocktail.
Creative Garnishes
While an apple slice is classic, why not get creative?
- Cinnamon Stick: Adds a warm, spicy aroma that complements the apple.
- Star Anise: Provides a subtle licorice note and a beautiful visual touch.
- Dehydrated Apple Slice: Offers a concentrated apple flavor and an elegant look.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Occasions
The Washington Apple is a versatile drink that fits a wide range of settings.
- Party Pleaser: Its simple recipe and crowd-pleasing flavor make it perfect for parties. You can easily batch it as a punch by multiplying the ingredients in a large dispenser.
- Fall Festivities: The crisp apple and cranberry notes make it an ideal cocktail for autumn gatherings, from Halloween parties to Thanksgiving dinners.
- Food Pairings: The cocktail’s sweet and tart profile pairs well with light appetizers like cheese and crackers, charcuterie boards, or even spicy dishes where the sweetness can balance the heat.
Make Your Best Drink Tonight
So, gather your ingredients, chill your glass, and give this fantastic recipe a try. Whether you’re hosting a party or just winding down after a long day, the Washington Apple is sure to become a new favorite.
