A Bold & Elevated Apple Highball

Introduction

Looking for a cocktail that combines nostalgia, complexity, and innovation? Meet the Molten Apple Crumble, a competition-worthy highball that captures the essence of a warm apple crumble with a boozy, elevated twist. This cocktail blends bourbon, spiced apple syrup, toasted oat orgeat, and a silky foam top for a multi-layered drinking experience. Served over crushed ice in a highball glass and garnished with a delicate apple fan, this drink is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

For this feature, we’re thrilled to showcase photography by @35rnie on Instagram, capturing the drink’s rich golden-brown tones and elegant presentation. 📸✨

Molten Apple Crumble Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

• 35ml bourbon (smooth caramel and vanilla base)

• 15ml calvados (apple brandy) (enhances depth and apple-forward flavors)

• 15ml spiced apple syrup (homemade or high-quality store-bought)

• 10ml toasted oat orgeat (adds a nutty, buttery richness)

• 10ml fresh lemon juice (for brightness and acidity)

• 2 dashes black walnut bitters (adds depth and complexity)

• 20ml Cocktail Foamer (for a velvety, structured foam top)

• 60ml chilled ginger beer (for effervescence and warmth)

• Crushed ice (for a refreshing texture)

• Apple fan garnish (for an elegant finishing touch)

• Cinnamon dusting (for aroma and extra visual appeal)

Method (Reverse Dry Shake):

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, calvados, spiced apple syrup, toasted oat orgeat, lemon juice, black walnut bitters, and ice.

2. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.

3. Strain out the ice, then add 20ml Cocktail Foamer.

4. Shake again (without ice) to aerate and create a silky, structured foam.

5. Fill a highball glass with crushed ice.

6. Top with chilled ginger beer, allowing the foam to rise naturally.

7. Garnish with a beautiful apple fan and a light dusting of cinnamon.

Why The Molten Apple Crumble Stands Out

🍏 Layered, Dessert-Inspired Complexity

The combination of apple brandy, toasted oat orgeat, and spiced apple syrup creates a cocktail that mirrors the comforting flavors of a warm apple crumble—but with a sophisticated, spirit-forward edge.

🧊 Crushed Ice for Ultimate Refreshment

Served over crushed ice, this drink provides a cool, textural contrast to its warm, spiced notes.

🎨 Competition-Worthy Presentation

The rich golden-brown hue, frothy foam top, apple fan garnish, and cinnamon dusting make Molten Apple Crumble a visually striking masterpiece.

💨 Silky Smooth, Long-Lasting Foam

Using the reverse dry shake method, Cocktail Foamer delivers an even more stable, velvety foam layer, making this drink both texturally and visually exceptional.

The Perfect Seasonal Highball

Whether you’re crafting this for a cocktail competition, a high-end bar menu, or a luxurious autumn gathering, Molten Apple Crumble delivers a multi-dimensional drinking experience that is both nostalgic and innovative.

📸 Special thanks to @35rnie for capturing this cocktail’s magic. Be sure to check out his stunning photography on Instagram!

Try It & Share Your Creations!

Give Molten Apple Crumble a try and tag us in your photos using #MoltenAppleCrumble. Follow us for more competition-worthy cocktail recipes, bartender tips, and inspiration! 🍏🔥🥃