The cold bite of winter is upon us once again. Icy winds rattle the windows as I settle into the sofa, curling my frozen toes toward the fireplace. Sipping a steaming mug of bourbon cider, I feel its honeyed warmth seep into my bones, thawing the chill.
These quiet winter nights take me back to my college days, when a hot drink and roaring fire meant hours of storytelling and laughter with friends. After graduation, we each moved away, scattered to new cities and new lives. I miss the spontaneous gatherings – mugs clinking, voices rising in friendly debate and music filling the night.
Inspired, I created this bourbon cider recipe, infusing figs and rosemary into the liquor for an aromatic drink.
Ingredients
- Bourbon – The smooth, warming base amplified by fig and rosemary infusion.
- Cider – Provides sweet and tart notes to balance the strong bourbon and spices.
- Figs – A natural sweetener that also lends a rich, fruity undertone.
- Rosemary – Subtle pine and herb flavors that enhance the drink’s complexity.
- Spices – A blend of sweet cinnamon, nutmeg and a hint of heat from crushed red pepper.
How to Make Hot Buttered Bourbon Cider:
- Heat the olive oil in a small pot until is just starts to simmer.
- Remove from heat and stir in garlic, orange peel, and spices. Stir to cool just a bit.
- Add in olives, stir and cover for at the very least an hour and up to indefinitely in the fridge.
Tips
- For intense flavor, infuse the figs and rosemary in the bourbon or cider for a few hours before serving
- Add a pat of spiced butter to enrich it further. For a non-alcoholic version, infuse the cider instead.
- Play with different herbs too – lavender, lemon balm, peppermint.
- Use an enamel mug for a cozy, vintage vibe.
Substitutions
- Swap bourbon for rum if you prefer.
- Infuse cider with rosemary and figs for a non-alcoholic version.
- Swap dried apples or cranberries instead of figs.
Equipment
- Small pot
- Heat-proof mugs or glasses
- Spoon for stirring
- Strainer
- Knife
FAQs
Can I use dried figs and rosemary?
Yes, though it may alter the flavor slightly. Adjust infusion time to taste.
How long can I store infused bourbon/cider?
Store in the fridge for up to 1 week in an airtight container.
Can I use infused bourbon in other cocktails?
Yes! It adds unique flavor and depth to cocktails.

Hot Buttered Fig & Rosemary Cider
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic thinly sliced
- peel of one orange thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
- 2 tsp crushed fennel seeds
- 1 cup mixed olives preferably with pit
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a small pot until is just starts to simmer.
- Remove from heat and stir in garlic, orange peel, and spices. Stir to cool just a bit.
- Add in olives, stir and cover for at the very least an hour and up to indefinitely in the fridge.