Poisoned Apple Cider

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this cocktail because it’s easy to make but looks like something straight out of a Halloween spell book. The apple cider makes it festive and familiar, while the dark rum adds warmth and depth. The blackberry liqueur not only gives it its dark “poisoned” hue but also layers in rich, fruity flavor. It’s the perfect drink for spooky parties, themed gatherings, or when I just want a festive fall cocktail with a twist.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 oz apple cider

• 2 oz dark rum

• 1 oz blackberry liqueur

• ½ oz lemon juice

• Ice

• Blackberries and a cinnamon stick, for garnish

Directions

1. In a cocktail shaker, I combine the apple cider, dark rum, blackberry liqueur, and lemon juice with ice.

2. I shake well until chilled, then strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.

3. I garnish with blackberries and a cinnamon stick for a spooky touch.

4. I serve immediately while it’s cold and refreshing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 1 cocktail. It takes just 5 minutes to prepare and serve.

Variations

• Sparkling version: I top the drink with a splash of club soda or sparkling apple cider for a fizzy twist.

• Extra spooky: I add dry ice for a smoky, bubbling effect (making sure it’s food-safe and handled properly).

• Sweeter: I drizzle in a touch of maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness.

• Non-alcoholic version: I replace the rum and liqueur with pomegranate juice and a splash of ginger ale.

• Stronger spice: I infuse the cider with cloves and star anise before mixing.

Storage/Reheating

This cocktail is best made fresh, but I can mix up a larger batch (without the ice) and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When serving, I shake or stir it with ice and garnish each glass.

FAQs

Can I make this into a punch for a party?

Yes! I scale up the ingredients and serve it in a punch bowl or pitcher with floating blackberries and cinnamon sticks.

What type of rum works best?

I prefer dark rum for its richness, but spiced rum adds a nice kick that complements the cider.

Can I use another liqueur instead of blackberry?

Yes, crème de cassis or blackcurrant liqueur works well, and Chambord gives a more raspberry-like flavor.

How do I make it look extra spooky?

I sometimes rim the glass with black sanding sugar or add a drop of black food coloring to darken the drink.

Can I serve it warm?

Yes, I’ve warmed the cider with the lemon juice and added the rum and liqueur at the end for a cozy hot version.

Conclusion

This Poisoned Apple Cider is the ultimate Halloween cocktail — dark, mysterious, and full of rich fall flavors. I love how easy it is to whip up yet how dramatic it looks in the glass. Whether I’m serving it as single cocktails or in a big batch for a party, it always casts a delicious spell on anyone who tries it.