Cursed Apple Martini

This cursed apple martini brings together the crisp sweetness of apple vodka and unfiltered apple cider with the vibrant touch of edible gold glitter, making it an enchanting drink for any festive occasion. Perfect for Halloween parties or any time you want to add a magical sparkle to your cocktail hour, this recipe delivers a stunning look and delightful flavor with minimal effort.

I first stirred up this cocktail on a chilly Halloween night, and ever since, it’s become the go—to drink for celebrating with friends in style.

Ingredients

• Two fluid ounces apple vodka: bringing a sweet, fruity base—choose a quality small—batch brand for best flavor
• One fluid ounce unfiltered apple cider: which adds a fresh, tart contrast—opt for local or organic if possible
• Half fluid ounce triple sec orange liqueur: giving citrus brightness—good quality triple sec balances sweetness and bitterness well
• Half fluid ounce grenadine syrup: lending a rich pomegranate flavor and deep color—homemade or pure grenadine yields the best taste
• Quarter teaspoon edible gold glitter for shimmer: which adds a striking visual pop—make sure it is food grade and beverage safe
• Honey for rimming the glass: to hold the glitter in place and provide a subtle sweetness
• Extra edible gold glitter for rim garnish: to create a sparkling, festive presentation

Instructions

Prep the Glass with Golden Rim:

Pour a thin layer of honey onto a flat plate, then gently roll the rim of a chilled martini glass in the honey until it is evenly coated. This sticky layer will hold the glitter in place. Next, spread edible gold glitter on a separate plate and dip the honeyed rim into it carefully to create a dazzling golden border. Chill the glass again for a few minutes to help the glitter set firmly and prevent it from dripping.

Mix the Cocktail:

Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes to chill. Pour in apple vodka, unfiltered apple cider, triple sec, grenadine syrup, and the quarter teaspoon of edible gold glitter. Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds, ensuring the ingredients blend thoroughly, the glitter disperses evenly, and the drink cools to a crisp temperature.

Strain and Serve:

Using both a cocktail strainer and a fine mesh sieve, double strain the shaken cocktail into the prepared glass. This step removes ice shards for a smooth, crystal—clear texture that highlights the shimmering glitter. Serve immediately to keep the sparkle vibrant and the flavors fresh.

I love how the apple vodka brings a natural sweetness without overpowering the complex citrus and berry notes. One Halloween, mixing this with friends became an annual ritual that always sets the party mood just right.

Storage Tips

For best results, prepare and serve this cocktail fresh. You can pre—mix the liquid ingredients without ice and glitter in a sealed container in the fridge up to a day ahead. Add ice and edible glitter only when ready to serve. Do not store with glitter mixed in as it tends to settle and lose sparkle.

Ingredient Substitutions

Triple sec can be swapped with elderflower liqueur to add floral complexity that enhances the apple and citrus flavors. If apple vodka is unavailable, cinnamon vodka creates a cozy warmth that complements the cider nicely. Replace grenadine with pomegranate juice mixed with simple syrup for a less sweet option that still gives a lovely ruby hue.

Serving Suggestions

Float a thin apple slice lightly dusted with edible black glitter on top for extra dramatic flair. Pair this martini with sharp cheeses or cinnamon—dusted truffles for a decadent tasting experience. For a smoky note, consider briefly smoking your glass with applewood chips before rimming and filling.

Chill the glassware and ingredients beforehand, and serve immediately after shaking to preserve the glittery shimmer.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ Why does my rim garnish slide down?

Ensure the rim is dry and not overly coated with honey. Dab off excess honey and allow the rim to air-dry briefly before applying glitter. Chilling the glass helps the garnish set firmly.

→ How can I prevent gold glitter from clumping?

Use food-safe, beverage-specific edible glitter and add it to the shaker with ice, not directly into the glass. Shake well to evenly disperse the glitter.

→ What if the drink looks dull and lacks shimmer?

Increase the glitter slightly and shake thoroughly. Serve immediately after shaking since the glitter may settle over time, reducing shimmer.

→ Can this be made in batches for parties?

Yes, multiply ingredients and mix in a large pitcher with ice. Add glitter just before serving, and double strain into prepared glasses for a stunning presentation.

→ Are there substitutions for the ingredients?

Try elderflower liqueur instead of triple sec for floral notes, cinnamon vodka for a spicy twist, or pomegranate juice with simple syrup instead of grenadine for subtle tartness.