Cinnamon schnapps adds a warm spicy kick to any drink, making it a favorite for cozy nights and festive gatherings. Its sweet yet fiery flavor pairs perfectly with a variety of mixers, creating cocktails that are both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just unwinding after a long day, cinnamon schnapps drinks bring a unique twist to your glass.
We’ve gathered some of the best cinnamon schnapps drink recipes that are easy to make and sure to impress. From simple sips to creative concoctions, these recipes highlight the versatility of this flavorful spirit. Let’s dive into delicious ways to enjoy cinnamon schnapps and spice up your next drink experience.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Schnapps Drink Recipes
To craft delicious and memorable cinnamon schnapps drinks, we rely on a combination of essential ingredients and versatile mixers that bring out the full flavor of the spirit. Below, we break down what you’ll commonly find in our favorite recipes and suggest optional additions to customize each drink.
Common Ingredients
These ingredients form the foundation of most cinnamon schnapps cocktails. Each complements the warm, spicy notes of the schnapps perfectly.
- Cinnamon Schnapps (usually 1 to 2 ounces per drink) – the star ingredient delivering that signature heat and spice.
- Vodka – to add strength without overpowering the cinnamon’s flavor.
- Apple Cider – offers a sweet, tangy base that harmonizes with the cinnamon.
- Cranberry Juice – brings a tart contrast balancing the sweetness.
- Orange Juice – adds bright citrus notes enhancing the overall profile.
- Cola – for a fizzy, caramel undertone when a simple mixed drink is preferred.
- Ice Cubes – crucial for chilling cocktails and smoothing flavors.
| Ingredient | Role in Cocktail | Typical Quantity per Drink |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon Schnapps | Primary flavor, warmth, and spice | 1 – 2 oz |
| Vodka | Boosts alcohol, neutral base | 1 – 1.5 oz |
| Apple Cider | Sweetness, fruitiness | 2 – 4 oz |
| Cranberry Juice | Tartness, color | 2 – 3 oz |
| Orange Juice | Citrus brightness | 2 – 3 oz |
| Cola | Carbonation, caramel notes | 3 – 4 oz |
| Ice Cubes | Chill, dilute for balance | As needed |
Optional Mixers and Garnishes
We love elevating our cinnamon schnapps drinks with creative mixers and eye-catching garnishes. These additions personalize your cocktail while highlighting the cinnamon’s spicy charm.
- Ginger Beer or Ginger Ale – adds a zesty kick and effervescent bite.
- Lemon-Lime Soda – introduces light acidity and sweetness.
- Whipped Cream – for dessert-inspired schnapps cocktails, adding creaminess.
- Honey or Maple Syrup – natural sweeteners that enhance the cozy warmth.
- Fresh Fruits:
- Apple slices – pair beautifully with cinnamon’s autumnal essence.
- Orange wedges – boost citrus aroma and color.
- Cinnamon sticks – serve as an aromatic stirrer and garnish.
- Star anise – gives anlicorice undertone that complements cinnamon.
Using these mixers and garnishes allows us to tailor each recipe to suit any occasion from festive gatherings to simple nights in. By thoughtfully selecting ingredients, we unlock the full potential of cinnamon schnapps drinks every time.
Tools and Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Cinnamon Schnapps Drink Recipes, having the right tools and equipment is essential. These items ensure precision, consistency, and an enjoyable mixing experience every time. Below, we outline the must-have tools and their roles in creating vibrant cinnamon schnapps cocktails.
Essential Tools for Mixing and Measuring
- Cocktail Shaker
We use a cocktail shaker to blend ingredients thoroughly, chilling the drink while mixing. A shaker with a built-in strainer speeds up the process.
- Jigger (Measuring Tool)
Precise measurements matter for flavor balance. The jigger lets us measure spirits like cinnamon schnapps and mix-ins in ounces or milliliters without guesswork.
- Mixing Glass
For drinks that require stirring instead of shaking, a sturdy mixing glass is indispensable. It offers control over dilution and temperature.
- Bar Spoon
This long-handled spoon helps us stir cocktails smoothly and layer ingredients when needed.
Tools for Serving and Presentation
- Strainer
We use a Hawthorne strainer or fine mesh strainer to keep ice shards and pulp out of the finished glass for a clean pour.
- Glassware
The choice of glass affects the drinking experience. We recommend:
| Glass Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Old Fashioned | Short cocktails with simple mixers |
| Highball | Tall cinnamon schnapps mixed drinks |
| Martini Glass | Up cocktails and shots |
| Mug or Tumbler | Warm cinnamon schnapps drinks |
- Ice Cube Tray or Ice Sphere Mold
Clear, large ice cubes or spheres melt slower. They chill without overly diluting the drink, preserving the bold cinnamon flavor.
Optional But Helpful Tools
- Muddler
Use to crush fresh fruits, herbs, or spices to release aromatic oils and deepen flavor profiles.
- Peeler or Zester
For crafting citrus twists or garnishes that enhance the drink’s aroma and visual appeal.
- Measuring Spoons
For small quantities of syrups or bitters when precision is needed.
“Equip yourself with these tools and watch how effortlessly your cinnamon schnapps cocktails come to life.”
By assembling these essentials, we ensure each shake, stir, and pour accentuates the rich, spicy warmth of cinnamon schnapps, elevating our drink making to a craft.
Preparing Cinnamon Schnapps Drink Recipes
Crafting the perfect cinnamon schnapps drink requires attention to detail from start to finish. Let’s dive into the essential steps of measuring ingredients accurately and preparing glassware to enhance each cocktail’s flavor and presentation.
Measuring Ingredients
Precision in measuring is crucial for balancing the bold, spicy notes of cinnamon schnapps with complementary mixers and garnishes. We recommend using a jigger or measuring cup to ensure each ingredient contributes evenly to the final flavor.
| Ingredient | Common Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon Schnapps | 1 to 1.5 oz | Adjust based on desired intensity |
| Vodka | 1 to 2 oz | Enhances alcohol content without overpowering spice |
| Apple Cider | 2 to 4 oz | Adds sweetness and depth |
| Cranberry Juice | 2 to 3 oz | Provides tartness |
| Orange Juice | 2 oz | Brings citrus brightness |
| Ice Cubes | 4 to 6 cubes | Chills drink while diluting slightly |
To measure:
- Hold the jigger at eye level.
- Pour the spirit or mixer slowly until it reaches the jigger’s edge.
- Use smaller increments for garnishes or strong flavors to avoid overpowering the drink.
Preparing Glassware
The right glassware enhances the drinking experience by complementing the aroma and appearance of our cinnamon schnapps cocktails. Here’s how we prepare glasses to maximize impact:
- Choose appropriate glassware: For most cinnamon schnapps drinks, use rocks glasses for neat or on-the-rocks servings and highball glasses for mixed cocktails.
- Chill glassware: Place glasses in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before serving. This keeps the drink cool longer without watering it down immediately.
- Add ice cubes thoughtfully: Use large, clear ice cubes to slow dilution and maintain flavor integrity.
- Consider rim embellishments: For festive drinks, rim glasses with sugar or cinnamon sugar to enhance sweetness and aroma. To do this, moisten glass rims with lemon or orange juice and dip in sugar mixture.
Following these steps ensures every element, from liquid measurement to glass presentation, works harmoniously to showcase the rich, spicy character of cinnamon schnapps drinks perfectly.
Classic Cinnamon Schnapps Cocktail Recipe
This classic cinnamon schnapps cocktail brings together spicy warmth and crisp flavors in a simple yet satisfying drink. Perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings, this recipe highlights the signature kick of cinnamon schnapps combined with complementary ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz cinnamon schnapps
- 1 oz vodka
- 3 oz apple cider (fresh or chilled)
- 0.5 oz lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- Ice cubes
- Cinnamon stick (for garnish)
- Apple slice (optional garnish)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Note |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon schnapps | 1.5 oz | Use room temperature |
| Vodka | 1 oz | Chilled |
| Apple cider | 3 oz | Fresh or refrigerated |
| Lemon juice | 0.5 oz | Freshly squeezed |
| Ice cubes | As needed | To chill and dilute drink |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 stick | For garnish |
| Apple slice | 1 slice | Optional garnish |
Directions
- Chill the glassware by placing your favorite cocktail glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water for 5 minutes, then discard the ice water.
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to ensure the drink chills quickly.
- Pour in 1.5 oz cinnamon schnapps and 1 oz vodka to provide a robust base with a smooth finish.
- Add 3 oz apple cider for fruity sweetness balanced by the cinnamon spice.
- Squeeze 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice directly into the shaker to brighten the flavor with subtle acidity.
- Secure the shaker lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass, ensuring a smooth pour without ice shards.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and, if desired, an apple slice for a beautiful aroma and inviting presentation.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, spicy notes coupled with crisp and refreshing undertones.
“The balance between the spicy warmth of cinnamon schnapps and the tart apple cider creates an irresistible cocktail perfect for any occasion.“
This classic cinnamon schnapps cocktail is a versatile canvas — feel free to adjust the apple cider sweetness or lemon juice tartness to match your taste preferences.
Spicy Cinnamon Schnapps Punch Recipe
Elevate your gatherings with this Spicy Cinnamon Schnapps Punch, a vibrant blend of warmth and zest. This punch perfectly balances the fiery cinnamon schnapps with refreshing fruit flavors, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cinnamon schnapps
- 2 cups apple cider (chilled)
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1/2 cup ginger beer (for a spicy fizz)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons simple syrup (optional, adjustable to taste)
- Ice cubes (as needed)
- Garnishes: apple slices, cinnamon sticks, fresh cranberries
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon schnapps | 1 cup | Core spicy flavor |
| Apple cider | 2 cups | Adds sweetness and depth |
| Cranberry juice | 1 cup | Provides tartness |
| Orange juice | 1 cup | Brightens flavor |
| Ginger beer | 1/2 cup | Adds sparkle and spice |
| Lemon juice | 1/4 cup | Enhances freshness |
| Simple syrup | 2 tbsp | Optional for extra sweetness |
| Ice cubes | As needed | For chilling punch |
| Garnishes | As desired | Apples, cinnamon, cranberries |
Directions
- Combine the Liquids: In a large punch bowl or pitcher, pour the cinnamon schnapps, chilled apple cider, cranberry juice, orange juice, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- Sweeten the Punch: Add the simple syrup gradually, stirring and tasting until the sweetness complements the spicy and tart notes perfectly.
- Chill and Mix: Add a generous amount of ice cubes to the punch to cool it down thoroughly. Stir gently to blend all flavors evenly.
- Add the Fizz: Just before serving, pour in the ginger beer to introduce a lively, spicy effervescence. Stir lightly to preserve bubbles.
- Garnish Generously: Float apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and fresh cranberries on top for a festive and aromatic presentation.
- Serve Immediately: Ladle the punch into glasses filled with ice cubes and enjoy the bold, spicy warmth balanced with fruitiness.
This Spicy Cinnamon Schnapps Punch brings a dynamic blend of heat and fruit that highlights cinnamon schnapps’ distinct profile in a refreshing, easy-to-share party drink.
Warm Cinnamon Schnapps Toddy Recipe
A Warm Cinnamon Schnapps Toddy is the ultimate cozy drink for chilly evenings. This simple recipe blends the spicy warmth of cinnamon schnapps with soothing hot ingredients to create a comforting cocktail that warms the soul.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz Cinnamon Schnapps (for that signature spicy warmth)
- 1 cup Hot water (freshly boiled)
- 1 tbsp Honey (adjust for sweetness)
- 1/2 oz Fresh lemon juice (for balancing tartness)
- 1 Cinnamon stick (for stirring and garnish)
- 1 Lemon wheel (for garnish and added aroma)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon Schnapps | 1 1/2 oz | Use your favorite brand |
| Hot water | 1 cup | Just boiled, not boiling |
| Honey | 1 tbsp | More or less to taste |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1/2 oz | Squeeze fresh for best flavor |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 stick | For garnish and stirring |
| Lemon wheel | 1 slice | Garnish, optional but recommended |
Directions
- Heat the water in a kettle or on the stove until just before boiling. We want it hot but not scalding to preserve flavors.
- In a heatproof mug, pour 1 1/2 oz of cinnamon schnapps.
- Add 1 tbsp honey into the mug. Stir gently to dissolve the honey into the schnapps.
- Squeeze 1/2 oz of fresh lemon juice into the mixture.
- Pour 1 cup of hot water over the schnapps, honey, and lemon juice. Stir using the cinnamon stick to mix and infuse the drink with an extra hint of spice.
- Allow the drink to sit for 1 minute to meld flavors.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel on the rim and leave the cinnamon stick in the mug for aroma and decoration.
- Serve immediately while warm and savor the balanced warmth of cinnamon, citrus, and honey.
This Warm Cinnamon Schnapps Toddy will fill your senses with spicy sweetness and radiant comfort—a perfect treat for cold nights or relaxing moments.
Frozen Cinnamon Schnapps Drink Recipe
For a chilly twist on the classic cinnamon schnapps experience, this frozen cinnamon schnapps drink balances spicy warmth with icy refreshment. Perfect for hot days or when you’re craving a festive yet cool cocktail.
Ingredients
- 2 oz cinnamon schnapps
- 1 oz vodka
- 1/2 cup apple cider, chilled
- 1 cup ice cubes
- 1/4 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp honey or simple syrup (optional for added sweetness)
- Garnishes: cinnamon stick, orange wheel, or frozen cranberries
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon schnapps | 2 oz | Use well chilled |
| Vodka | 1 oz | |
| Apple cider | 1/2 cup | Chilled |
| Ice cubes | 1 cup | Fresh and large ice preferred |
| Orange juice | 1/4 cup | Freshly squeezed |
| Honey/simple syrup | 1 tsp (optional) | Adjust for desired sweetness |
| Garnishes | As desired | Cinnamon stick, orange wheel |
Directions
- Combine the cinnamon schnapps, vodka, apple cider, and orange juice in a blender.
- Add 1 cup of fresh ice cubes to the mixture.
- Blend on high speed until smooth and evenly frozen, approximately 30-45 seconds. The texture should be slushy but not too runny.
- Taste the mix and add honey or simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter cocktail. Blend again briefly to mix.
- Pour the frozen drink into a chilled glass immediately to maintain its icy texture.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick, an orange wheel, or frozen cranberries to enhance aroma and visual appeal.
- Serve with a straw and enjoy the perfect blend of spicy heat and icy coolness.
Tips for Making the Best Cinnamon Schnapps Drinks
Mastering cinnamon schnapps drinks requires attention to detail in flavors, garnishes, and presentation. Let’s explore essential tips that elevate our cocktails with this warm, spicy spirit.
Flavor Combinations
Pairing the right flavors enhances the bold cinnamon notes without overpowering. Here are some ideal flavor matches:
| Ingredient | Flavor Profile | Benefit to Cinnamon Schnapps |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Cider | Sweet, tart, fruity | Balances spice with natural sweetness |
| Cranberry Juice | Tart, slightly bitter | Adds bright acidity and refreshing contrast |
| Orange Juice | Citrusy, sweet | Brings lively citrus notes that brighten the drink |
| Vodka | Neutral, clean | Amplifies cinnamon flavor without adding extra taste |
| Honey | Floral, sweet | Complements spice with smooth sweetness |
| Ginger Beer | Spicy, effervescent | Adds zing and effervescence that heightens complexity |
| Lemon or Lime Juice | Tart, acidic | Provides a fresh tang to cut richness |
“Combining these ingredients thoughtfully allows us to tailor each recipe to highlight the fiery warmth of cinnamon schnapps while balancing sweetness and acidity.”
Garnishing Ideas
Garnishes don’t just beautify—they add aroma and subtle flavors that enhance our cinnamon schnapps drinks:
- Cinnamon Sticks: Intensify cinnamon aroma and invite deeper sipping.
- Apple Slices: Provide a crisp, fresh bite complementing apple cider-based drinks.
- Orange or Lemon Wheels: Offer bright citrus fragrance and a pop of color.
- Fresh Cranberries: Add a festive, tart burst perfect for holiday cocktails.
- Whipped Cream: Tops warm drinks with creamy sweetness and smooth texture.
- Star Anise: Gives an aromatic licorice accent adding sophistication.
We recommend adding garnishes that work harmoniously with the drink’s ingredients to enhance both flavor and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation influences our drinking experience profoundly. Consider these serving tips for optimal enjoyment:
| Drink Type | Glassware | Serving Temperature | Special Touch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Cocktails | Rocks glass or coupe | Chilled or room temp | Rim glass with cinnamon sugar |
| Spicy Punch | Large punch bowl or pitcher | Cold, over ice | Float fruit slices and cinnamon sticks |
| Warm Toddy | Heat-resistant mug or clear glass | Hot | Use cinnamon stick as stirrer |
| Frozen Drinks | Margarita or highball glass | Frozen/slushy | Garnish with orange zest and cinnamon dust |
Pre-chilling glassware especially benefits cold drinks by keeping flavors crisp and refreshing longer.
Make-Ahead Instructions and Storage Tips
To ensure our cinnamon schnapps drinks are always fresh and flavorful, proper make-ahead preparation and storage are essential. Here are detailed steps and tips for making your cocktails in advance while preserving their vibrant taste and aroma.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Batch Mixing: For recipes like the Spicy Cinnamon Schnapps Punch, we recommend preparing the mix of liquids—such as apple cider, cranberry juice, orange juice, and lemon juice—up to 24 hours in advance.
- Add Schnapps Last: Hold off on adding the cinnamon schnapps until just before serving to maintain its crisp and spicy character.
- Chill Thoroughly: Store the mixed non-alcoholic ingredients in the refrigerator, ideally in an airtight container, for optimal freshness and temperature.
- Ice and Garnishes: Prepare ice cubes and garnishes (cinnamon sticks, apple slices, fresh fruit) separately and add them immediately before serving to avoid dilution and sogginess.
Storage Tips for Leftover Drinks
- Glass Containers: Use airtight glass containers for storing leftover drinks to preserve flavor and prevent absorption of odors.
- Refrigeration: Keep all schnapps-based drinks refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days to enjoy the best quality.
- Separation of Components: For drinks like the Warm Cinnamon Schnapps Toddy, store the hot water and honey separately from the schnapps and lemon juice if preparing in advance, then combine when ready to serve.
- Frozen Drinks: For the Frozen Cinnamon Schnapps Drink, prep the mixture (without ice) in advance and store in a sealed container in the freezer for up to a week. Blend with fresh ice cubes just before serving.
Quick Reference: Make-Ahead and Storage Timelines
| Drink Type | Make-Ahead Prep Time | Storage Method | Best Consumed Within |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spicy Cinnamon Schnapps Punch | Up to 24 hours (without schnapps) | Airtight refrigerated container | 2-3 days |
| Warm Cinnamon Schnapps Toddy | Ingredients separated, up to 12 hours | Store components separately refrigerated | Same day |
| Frozen Cinnamon Schnapps Drink | Mixture (sans ice) up to 7 days frozen | Airtight freezer-safe container | 7 days (freeze) |
| Classic Cinnamon Schnapps Cocktail | Prepare elements up to 24 hours | Refrigerate ingredients separately | 2 days |
Pro Tip
“Add the cinnamon schnapps at the very last moment to preserve its bold and spicy aroma.“
By adhering to these make-ahead and storage tips, we enable ourselves to offer smooth, flavorful cinnamon schnapps drinks every time without compromising their signature warmth and zest.
Conclusion
Cinnamon schnapps opens up a world of flavorful possibilities that can transform any occasion. Whether we’re crafting a cozy toddy or mixing up a refreshing frozen cocktail, this spirited ingredient adds a unique warmth and spice that’s hard to beat.
With the right tools, precise measurements, and creative mixers, we can easily elevate our drink game. Exploring different recipes and garnishes lets us tailor each cocktail to our taste and mood, making every sip a memorable experience.
Let’s keep experimenting and enjoying the bold, inviting flavors that cinnamon schnapps brings to the glass. Cheers to discovering new favorites and sharing great drinks with friends and family!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cinnamon schnapps?
Cinnamon schnapps is a flavored spirit known for its warm, spicy cinnamon taste. It’s often used to add a cozy, spicy kick to cocktails and is popular during festive occasions and colder months.
What drinks can I make with cinnamon schnapps?
You can make a variety of drinks, including classics, punches, warm toddies, and frozen cocktails. Common mixers include apple cider, cranberry juice, vodka, orange juice, and ginger beer.
What ingredients complement cinnamon schnapps?
Ingredients like apple cider, cranberry juice, orange juice, vodka, cola, and spices enhance cinnamon schnapps flavors. Garnishes like cinnamon sticks, fresh fruits, and whipped cream add extra appeal.
What tools do I need for making cinnamon schnapps cocktails?
Essential tools include a cocktail shaker, jigger, mixing glass, bar spoon, strainers, and suitable glassware. Optional tools like a muddler and peeler help with flavor and presentation.
How do I measure ingredients for cinnamon schnapps drinks?
Use precise measurements with a jigger for accuracy. Following specific amounts—for example, 1 to 2 ounces of schnapps and measured mixers—ensures balanced flavors in your cocktails.
How should I prepare glassware for these cocktails?
Chill your glasses beforehand and consider rimming them with sugar or spices. Use appropriate glass types (e.g., rocks glass for toddies, highball for punches) to enhance presentation and experience.
What is a classic cinnamon schnapps cocktail recipe?
A classic recipe combines cinnamon schnapps, vodka, apple cider, and fresh lemon juice. Shake with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and adjust sweetness or tartness to taste.
How do I make a Spicy Cinnamon Schnapps Punch?
Mix cinnamon schnapps with apple cider, cranberry juice, orange juice, ginger beer, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Sweeten to taste and garnish with apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and cranberries.
What is a Warm Cinnamon Schnapps Toddy?
A comforting drink made by stirring cinnamon schnapps, hot water, honey, and fresh lemon juice. It’s served warm and usually garnished with a cinnamon stick and lemon wheel.
How can I make a Frozen Cinnamon Schnapps Drink?
Blend cinnamon schnapps, vodka, chilled apple cider, orange juice, and ice until slushy. Serve in a chilled glass garnished with fruit or cinnamon sticks for a refreshing twist.
Any tips for making the best cinnamon schnapps drinks?
Balance bold cinnamon with complementary flavors like apple and cranberry. Use fresh garnishes, chill glassware, and serve at the right temperature for enhanced taste and presentation.
Can I prepare cinnamon schnapps drinks in advance?
Yes, you can batch mix non-alcoholic ingredients and add schnapps just before serving. Store components separately in airtight containers and refrigerate to maintain freshness.
How should leftover cinnamon schnapps drinks be stored?
Keep leftovers in airtight glass containers in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for best flavor and safety. Avoid diluting by storing mixers separately from alcohol.