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This Apple Martini recipe (more commonly known as Appletini) is a sweet yet sour, delectably stylish cocktail that’s perfect for a night out, after-dinner drinks, or even a brunch with friends. Made from vodka and deliciously sour green apples, it’s great for any occasion.
The Apple Martini is so sweet and satisfying that it’d be difficult to pass it up. Made with Vodka, Green Apple Schnapps, lemon juice, and a green apple garnish, it serves to stand the test of time. With so many variations available, you can customize it however you like.
The rest of this article will lead you through the tale of the Apple Martini, reaching back into the 90s and bringing us to all the modern-day variations we know and love. I’ll also discuss the taste, ingredients, and finally, a recipe to keep those cravings at bay.
History of the Apple Martini
With its origins deep in 90s Los Angeles, the Apple Martini was created almost by accident. In a famous club, Lola’s, a bartender wanted to get rid of the most unpopular drinks in the bar — Vodka and Schnapps — and famously concocted this absolute gem.
Loren Dunsworth, Lola’s founder and owner, sold the Apple Martini for the first time, and the people came in their droves. There are some reports that the bar was heaving because of the giant glass the Apple Martini was sold in, which is unsurprising, given how everyone loves a generous bartender.
Regardless of its history, one couldn’t say that the Apple Martini is a timeless classic. It became largely unpopular until recent years, which has seen a vast number of variations in the cocktail skyrocket.
The Appletini has gained back some of its popularity in the last few years, so it’ll undoubtedly be a hit with your friends if you make it for your next cocktail party. Additionally, since it’s traditionally served in a large glass, you’ll be known as a most generous host.
What Does it Taste Like?
An Apple Martini tastes like a cold, sweet, and sour apple shaken with ice. This may sound strange, but the combination of sharp lemon juice, sour apples, and strong Vodka gives this cocktail an undeniably exquisite taste. It’s perfect for those summer evenings out with friends.
If you’re looking for a cocktail that tastes like summer fruits, the Apple Martini probably isn’t for you. This one will give you a little kick of the sour, but that certainly isn’t a bad thing. It’s just the right amount of tang for most people’s taste buds.
If you’ve got those intense sugar cravings and want your Appletini to taste a little sweeter, you can always add a sugary rim slightly reminiscent of a Mojito.
The Apple Martini might feel a little old-fashioned, but there are so many ways to amp up the flavor to exactly the way you like it. Fancy a garnish? You can use apple slices, use a little cocktail umbrella, or even add a little lemon wedge for good measure.
Cocktail Ingredients
While the ingredients of most cocktails are largely interchangeable depending on how you like to make your drink, this Apple Martini recipe needs specific components to display that ’90s charm.
The ingredients of an Apple Martini are the following:
- Vodka
- Apple Schnapps
- Lemon juice
- Green apple slices
- Ice
Ice is as essential here as it is in many other cocktails since it helps to amplify the infamously crispy taste of the Appletini. You can use pellet ice here if you don’t like big chunks.
As I said, you can swap out some ingredients if creativity is your thing. However, it’s best not to deviate from the above list for an absolute classic, since the Apple Martini is more than just a drink – it’s a vibe.
What Tools Do I Need To Make an Apple Martini?
When it comes to making cocktails, you might feel a bit overwhelmed because of the sheer number of ingredients, which can often feel like a considerable expense. Luckily, you only need a few tools to make the perfect Apple Martini Cocktail.
The tools you need to make this Apple Martini recipe include a chilled Martini glass, cocktail shaker and sieve, and a long spoon. If you want your Apple Martini to be particularly authentic, make sure you get a big glass: You’ll be emulating 90s Los Angeles in no time.
If you don’t have a cocktail set with a shaker and strainer, don’t panic just yet. You can always use that blender or processor you have in the back of your cupboard. It might not produce precisely the same effect as a cocktail shaker, but it’ll undoubtedly do the trick if you’re in a pinch.
Additionally, if you’re not well-versed in the world of cocktail making, and you don’t yet have the skills to use the shaker well, don’t fret. You can take as much time as you need to practice using the shaker, and thankfully, the Apple Martini is a reasonably forgiving cocktail.
Which Type of Schnapps Is Best for an Apple Martini?
Apple Schnapps or Apple Liqueur is best for an Apple Martini. Although you can switch it up a bit if you’re not a fan of the sour taste, it just won’t be an Apple Martini anymore. However, if it’s not your thing, you can go easy on the Schnapps and use a bit more lemon juice to spruce up the flavor.
You can switch up the flavors however you like, but Apple Schnapps is probably the best option if you’re going for tradition. You can also mix it up a little with one part Apple Schnapps and one part strawberry schnapps, just to make life a little more interesting.
Apple Martini Garnishes
A bit of variation in life is what makes it sweet. You can choose whatever garnish you like in an Apple Martini, but the traditional garnish is an apple slice. (It is in the name, after all.)
Here are a few alternatives to apple slices to spice up your Apple Martini:
- Lemon wedges
- Mint leaves
- Cocktail umbrella
- Apple ribbons
- Cucumber slices
- Orange swirls or slices
- Orange peel
You can switch it up however you like, especially if you’re not a fan of Granny Apples, which is the most traditional garnish for an Apple Martini. You can even get creative with the garnish you choose and make little ribbons from your cucumber slices.
Remember that working with apples is relatively easy, but using a vegetable peeler might help you unleash some of that creativity. For your peeling needs, I recommend the OXO Good Grips 2-Piece Peeler Set – Swivel and Julienne (available on Amazon.com). Both of them are safe and easy to use and are made of sturdy Japanese stainless steel to help your blades last longer — along with your ability to craft those delectable cocktails.
Also, you can create an apple twist easily with the help of an olive spear, giving you the perfect garnish for your Apple Martini.
To learn more about the art of making cocktail garnishes, visit Moody Mixologist and pick up some of that creative spirit for your next cocktail evening.
Variations of the Apple Martini
There are many variations of the Appletini – or rather, the Appletini is a variation of other martini cocktails. Some reports suggest that the Martini goes back to the 1800s, so the Apple Martini isn’t exactly an original cocktail since it only surfaced in the 1990s. However, there are so many types of Martini, so you’ll definitely be able to find one that’s right for you.
Here are some of the variations of the Apple Martini:
- Lemon Drop: This is less of a Martini and more of a mash-up of the Apple Martini and the famous Sidecar. As a substitute for Schnapps, the Lemon Drop uses Triple Sec for an extra tang.
- Classic Martini: The Classic Martini is one of the originals and is one of the simplest cocktails on any menu. Traditional and sharp, the Classic martini uses gin and vermouth to create a delectable taste.
- Vodka Martini: The Vodka Martini is similar to the Classic, only it replaces the gin for vodka. It’s arguably even sharper than the Classic, so go slow on this one.
- Espresso Martini: This is perfect for any time of day, with a cool, delectable taste perfect for any occasion. Traditionally made with coffee liqueur and espresso, the Espresso Martini is absolutely incredible.
- Extra Apple Flavor: For an additional boost of apple flavor try adding some apple cider or apple juice to the cocktail.
As I mentioned, you can switch up any ingredients you like, especially if sour green apples aren’t your thing, but I’d recommend that everyone should try the Apple Martini at least once. Appletini on your balcony in the evening? Yes, please!
Apple Martini Recipe
Amazing Apple Martini
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker
- Hawthorne Strainer
- Martini Glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1 1/2 oz Green Apple Schnapps
- 1 tsp Lemon Juice Fresh
- Green Apple Slice (garnish)
- Ice
Instructions
- Add Ice to the Martini Glass to Chill the Glass
- Add Vodka, Green Apple Schnapps, Lemon Juice, and Ice to Cocktail Shaker
- Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds
- Remove Ice from Martini Glass
- Strain into Martini Glass
- Garnish with Green Apple Slice
Bartender Notes
- For a less sweet and more sour cocktail you can replace the Green Apple Schnapps with a Sour Apple Pucker Liqueur
Final Cocktail Thoughts
If you’ve been looking for an excuse to make an Apple Martini, I can’t think of a better time than now. The Appletini is a tart, sweet, sour, and crispy cocktail that works perfectly on a calm evening with friends or as the beginning of a fun night out. Look no further than this for a cold, fresh cocktail that’s equal parts sour and satisfying.
Remember to get creative with those garnishes, and keep those 90s vibes in your mind as you enjoy this delicious cocktail.
Cocktails We are Sure You Will Like
Enjoy this fun and creative take on everyone’s favorite tropical dessert. Instead of the apple flavor in the Appletini, this cocktail blends delicious lime juice with flavored vodka to create one unforgettable experience.
If the Appletini recipe was a little too sweet for you, than we suggest a classic gin martini to satisfy you martini cravings.
If you loved the taste of sour apple schnapps or sour apple martinis than you will enjoy a nice and refreshing Vodka Sour. A true classic with a wonderful blend of vodka and fresh lemon juice, with a hint of simple syrup poured in a nice cocktail glass, this will be sure to please the taste buds and eyes.
