sour apple martini recipe with vodka and granny smith apple slices
Cocktail Recipes

Easy Sour Apple Martini for Your 90s Cocktail Night

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Inside: Master the 90s-inspired Apple Martini with this recipe and pro tips. Discover the secret ingredient that perfectly balances its tart and sweet flavors.

C onfession time: I don’t usually reach for vodka cocktails.

But every now and then, a recipe comes along with such undeniable nostalgia that it pulls me right in.

Enter the Apple Martini, or Appletini if you’re feeling extra cheeky.

This vibrant, neon-green concoction screams 90s vibes, and when made right, it’s a delightful mix of tart, sweet, and refreshing.

And let me tell you—there’s a secret ingredient that takes this from sugar overload to balanced perfection. Read on to find out what it is!

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A vibrant sour apple martini cocktail in a chilled glass, perfect for 90s theme cocktails and showcasing an easy sour apple martini recipe.

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Why You Need To Try It

Let’s be honest—the Apple Martini’s reputation has seen its ups and downs.

But when made with quality ingredients and a few tweaks, this cocktail transforms into a modern-day charmer. It’s the perfect party drink: easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and guaranteed to spark a conversation (especially with its striking color).

Plus, it’s versatile.

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apple martini cocktail with vodka and sour apple pucker

Want a festive drink for your holiday movie night? Pair an Apple Martini with How the Grinch Stole Christmas for a perfect green-themed moment.

Looking to impress with your cocktail knowledge? Brush up on the Apple Martini’s history and you’ll have the perfect icebreaker. (Hint: the story involves celebs and the rise of sweet cocktails.)

The Perfect Apple Martini Recipe

Here’s how to whip up this retro delight:

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz good-quality vodka
  • 1.5 oz sour apple liqueur (like Apple Pucker)
  • 1.5 tsp fresh lemon juice (the secret ingredient that balances the sweetness!)
  • Garnish: green apple slices, cherry, or a twist of lemon peel
apple martini cocktail with green apple schnapps and vodka on a marble table

Apple Martini

Yield: 1 Drink
Prep Time: 5 minutes

Crisp, tart, and just the right amount of sweet, the Apple Martini (or Appletini) is a modern classic that combines vodka, apple schnapps, and a splash of citrus for a bright, refreshing sip. It's the perfect balance of fruity fun and cocktail elegance

Ingredients

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1.5 oz sour apple liqueur
  • 1.5 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • Garnish: green apple slices

Instructions

  1. Add all ingredients except garnish to a cocktail shaker with ice
  2. Shake for 30 seconds then strain into a chilled cocktail glass
  3. Garnish with green apple slices

Pro Tips for a Killer Apple Martini

  1. Chill Your Glass: Pop your cocktail glass in the freezer for a few minutes before serving. It’ll keep your cocktail icy cold and extra refreshing.
  2. Go Fresh: That little splash of fresh lemon juice is key. It cuts through the sweetness of the apple liqueur, giving the drink a crisp, clean finish.
  3. Shake, Don’t Stir: Shaking not only chills the drink but also creates that irresistible frothy texture.

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A crisp green apple martini cocktail with elegant garnish, showing a delicious green apple martini recipe for fans of vintage cocktails.

FAQ

Can I make an Apple Martini without Apple Pucker?

Absolutely! Substitute with another sour apple liqueur, or even use apple juice with a splash of simple syrup and a dash of citrus for a more natural flavor.

What’s the best vodka for an Apple Martini?

Go for a smooth, mid-range vodka. You don’t need to splurge on top-shelf, but something clean like Tito’s or Absolut will work beautifully.

Can I batch this recipe for a party?

Yes! Mix the vodka, apple liqueur, and lemon juice in advance, then store it in the fridge. Shake with ice and strain when ready to serve.

How can I tone down the sweetness?

Add an extra splash of lemon juice or experiment with a dry cider instead of apple liqueur for a more subtle apple flavor.

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A classic appletini cocktail in a frosted martini glass, emphasizing an appletini recipe and vodka mixed drinks for 90s cocktail lovers.

Sip, Savor, and Share

Whether you’re channeling your inner 90s queen, hosting a party, or just in the mood for something fun, the Apple Martini is here to deliver.

With its eye-catching color and perfectly balanced flavor, this cocktail might just become your new favorite—vodka skeptic or not!

Are you willing to try this cocktail? Let me know in the comments.

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I'm Stefanie—Founder & Writer for Revel & Delight

I believe the secret to hosting exceptional gatherings, from lively celebrations to cozy get-togethers, is thoughtfulness and a little bit of prep. Craft the right atmosphere, attitude, then then sit back and savor the moment you've made.

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