Caramel Apple Mule (Bourbon) - (21+)

Caramel Apple Bourbon Mule

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By the Fire

If autumn had a signature drink, this would be it. Apple cider brings the orchard, caramel lays down comfort, ginger beer keeps it lively, and bourbon ties it all together. But put a slice of apple on the grill before it hits the glass, and suddenly this Mule doesn’t just taste like fall — it smells like it too.

That charred apple sits on the rim, whispering smoke before the first sip. Sweet, crisp, spicy, smoky — it’s the county fair, the Friday night lights, and the last bite of caramel apple rolled into one.

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Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon

• 2 oz apple cider

• ½ oz caramel syrup

• Ginger beer, to top

• Ice

• Grilled apple wheel, for garnish

• Lime wedge (optional)

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PitMaster’s Way

Step 1 — Shake the Base

In a shaker with ice, combine bourbon, apple cider, and caramel syrup. Shake quick, just to chill.

Step 2 — Pour the Mule

Strain into a copper mug packed with ice.

Step 3 — Top it Off

Add ginger beer, give it a gentle stir.

Step 4 — Garnish with Fire

Clip a grilled apple wheel on the rim. That char isn’t decoration — it’s the first note you smell.

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Hosting Notes

✦ For flair: Dust the grilled apple wheel with cinnamon sugar before setting it on the rim.

✦ For garnish: A lime wedge brightens the finish if you like a sharper edge.

✦ For elevation: Use a spiced ginger beer for extra autumn heat.

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Pitmaster’s Pour

Want to drive the caramel deeper into the pit? Smoke your caramel syrup. Set a dish of caramel (or sugar + cream base) in the smoker for 15–20 minutes, then fold it into the drink. The syrup carries smoke like a blanket, weaving into every sip. Sweet, smoky, warming — like standing by the fire with a mug in your hands.

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From the Porch

The Mule finds its place in autumn — cool nights, jackets on, and the smell of apple crisp wafting from the kitchen. Football hums from a radio on the porch, the copper mug frosts in your hand, and the grilled apple on the rim matches the orchard breeze outside. It’s not hurried; it’s steady, cozy, meant for gathering close as the season turns.

 

These recipes are intended for adults of legal drinking age (21+ in the United States; please follow the laws in your region). Fire up the grill, not the driver’s seat. Stoking the Coals encourages moderation, community, and safe enjoyment of food and drink. Please never drink and drive, and always respect your health, your guests, and the law.