🍂🧙‍♀️ Enchanted Forest Elixir: Your New Favorite Autumn Cocktail! (Easy Recipe!)

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm, comforting drink to set the mood for autumn evenings. We've crafted an original cocktail that perfectly embodies the season's magic – the Enchanted Forest Elixir.

This unique drink blends warming spices, a touch of fruit, and your favorite dark spirit for a cozy, sophisticated sip. It's surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering or a peaceful night by the fire.

The Enchanted Forest Elixir Recipe

Yields: 1 cocktail Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes (for the infused syrup)

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Spiced Rum (dark rum or bourbon also works well!)

• 0.5 oz Elderflower Liqueur

• 1 oz Spiced Pear & Rosemary Simple Syrup (recipe below)

• 0.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice

• 2 oz Hot Apple Cider

• Garnish: Fresh rosemary sprig, thin pear slice, or star anise

For the Spiced Pear & Rosemary Simple Syrup:

• 1 cup Water

• 1 cup Granulated Sugar

• 1 small Pear, thinly sliced (about ½ cup)

• 2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary

• 4-5 whole Cloves

• 1 Cinnamon Stick

  
  

Instructions:

1. Make the Spiced Pear & Rosemary Simple Syrup:

   • In a small saucepan, combine water, sugar, pear slices, rosemary, cloves, and cinnamon stick.

   • Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

   • Reduce heat to low and let it gently simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.

   • Remove from heat and let it cool completely. Strain out the solids, pressing gently on the pear slices to extract all liquid. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

2. Assemble the Cocktail:

   • In a heatproof mug or glass, combine the spiced rum, elderflower liqueur, spiced pear & rosemary simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice.

   • Heat the apple cider until hot (you can do this on the stovetop or microwave).

   • Pour the hot apple cider into the mug and stir gently to combine all ingredients.

   • Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig, a thin pear slice, or a star anise.

3. Serve Warm & Enjoy!

   
   

Tips for the Perfect Elixir:

• Make Ahead: The simple syrup can be made days in advance, making assembly quick for a party.

• Batch for a Crowd: For a larger gathering, multiply the ingredients (excluding garnishes) and keep the mixture warm in a slow cooker on a low setting. Add garnishes to individual cups.

• Non-Alcoholic Version: Omit the rum and elderflower liqueur, and add an extra splash of the spiced pear & rosemary simple syrup and hot apple cider for a delightful mocktail.

• Spirit Swap: Bourbon or a spiced gin could also work beautifully if you don't have spiced rum.