The TikTok caramel apple cocktail is a viral drink that has been gaining popularity on the social media platform TikTok. As the name suggests, it tastes like a caramel apple in drink form. It’s sweet, indulgent, and perfect for autumn.
What are the origins of the TikTok caramel apple cocktail?
The origins of the TikTok caramel apple cocktail are a bit murky, as is the case with many viral recipes on TikTok. Several different creators have claimed to invent the drink. However, it seems to have first gone viral in September 2022 thanks to TikTok creator @vinnybags. His video documenting the recipe now has over 4 million views.
The drink quickly took off, with many other TikTokers filming their own versions. Various riffs on the core recipe emerged, but the primary ingredients and method remained the same. The hashtag #caramelapplecocktail now has over 230 million views on TikTok, showing just how popular this autumnal drink became.
What are the main ingredients in the TikTok caramel apple cocktail?
The main ingredients in the TikTok caramel apple cocktail are:
- Ice
- Fireball Cinnamon Whisky
- Apple cider
- Caramel sauce or syrup
The specific amounts of each ingredient can vary depending on the recipe, but these four components form the base of the drink. The ice provides chill and dilution. Fireball Whisky offers warmth, spice, and sweetness. Apple cider gives an autumnal, appley flavor. And the caramel imparts rich, buttery, salty-sweet notes.
What are the steps to make the TikTok caramel apple cocktail?
Making the TikTok caramel apple cocktail is simple. Just follow these steps:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in 1-2 ounces (1-2 shots) of Fireball Cinnamon Whisky.
- Top with apple cider, leaving 1-2 inches at the top.
- Drizzle caramel sauce or syrup over the top and let it sink through the drink.
- Garnish with an apple slice or cinnamon stick (optional).
- Enjoy your caramel apple cocktail!
What are some extra add-ins and garnishes for the cocktail?
While the basic TikTok caramel apple cocktail recipe only has four ingredients, many creators have come up with fun extra add-ins and garnishes. Some popular options include:
- Whipped cream
- Crushed graham crackers or cinnamon sugar rim
- Apple slices
- Caramel popcorn
- Crushed biscotti
- Mini donuts
- Crushed pretzels
- Crushed pecan pieces
- Cinnamon sticks
- Sprinkles
Feel free to get creative with different fall flavors and textures! The basic recipe is also delicious on its own.
What are some variations of the TikTok caramel apple cocktail recipe?
While the original viral recipe remains the most popular, TikTokers have come up with many variations on the caramel apple cocktail. Some examples include:
- Using rum, vodka, or bourbon instead of Fireball Whisky
- Using apple juice, sparkling cider, or hard cider instead of regular apple cider
- Adding pumpkin spice syrup or pumpkin puree
- Swapping in butterscotch or chocolate sauce instead of caramel
- Shaking everything in a cocktail shaker before pouring over ice
- Adding apple slices and muddling them in the glass before adding other ingredients
- Topping with whipped cream flavored with caramel or pumpkin spice
Feel free to experiment to create your own perfect autumnal cocktail!
Why did the TikTok caramel apple cocktail go viral?
There are several reasons why the TikTok caramel apple cocktail blew up:
- Nostalgic flavor combination – It tastes just like a caramel apple, evoking nostalgia for autumn fairs and orchards.
- Perfect for fall – The cinnamon, apple, and caramel flavors scream autumn. TikTokers love seasonal drink trends.
- Easy to recreate – With just 4 main ingredients, most people have the basics on hand to whip it up.
- Customizable – The basic recipe is endlessly adaptable with different add-ins and garnishes.
- Visual appeal – Drizzling the caramel sauce through the cocktail makes for a gorgeous and satisfying video.
- Delicious flavor – It simply tastes amazing! Sweet, indulgent, and well-balanced.
It’s no wonder the #caramelapplecocktail took TikTok by storm as a new fall must-try. Its nostalgic flavor profile and photogenic aesthetic make it the perfect viral autumn drink.
Is the TikTok caramel apple cocktail kid-friendly?
The original TikTok caramel apple cocktail contains Fireball Whisky, so it does have alcohol. However, there are a few ways to make a kid-friendly mocktail version:
- Omit the Fireball and increase apple cider.
- Use apple juice instead of hard cider.
- Replace Fireball with apple pie spice syrup or apple butter.
- Top with more apple slices instead of just one.
Mocktail versions would also work well for pregnant women or those avoiding alcohol. The apple, cinnamon, and caramel flavors still provide that nostalgic fall treat vibe!
Conclusion
The TikTok caramel apple cocktail exploded in popularity thanks to its nostalgic flavor profile, seasonal appeal, photogenic aesthetic, and endless adaptability. While original recipes contain alcohol, there are also kid-friendly mocktail versions parents can whip up. This autumnal drink truly captures cozy fall vibes in a glass.
So get on TikTok, search the #caramelapplecocktail tag, and find a version that looks good to you. Mix up a batch to sip by the fire or enjoy at your fall parties. Whether you prefer it boozy or non-alcoholic, the TikTok caramel apple cocktail is sure to satisfy your cravings for all things cinnamon, apple, and caramel this season.