Caramel Apple Shots: Sweet, Tart, & Boozy

Fall vibes in one tiny, delicious glass—what could be better? These Caramel Apple Shots combine crisp, tart apple flavor with the creamy decadence of caramel, delivering a perfectly balanced boozy treat. Whether you’re hosting a cozy autumn gathering or looking for a show-stopping addition to your Halloween party, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Sweet, tart, and oh-so-easy to make, these shots are a true celebration of the season. The best part? They come together with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, but they’ll make you look like the host of the year. If you’re like me and love everything about fall, from the vibrant leaves to warm, comforting flavors, then you’re in for a treat!

Let’s dive into how you can whip up these delectable little shots that will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds!). If you’re not already subscribed to my newsletter, make sure to do so—this recipe and many more will land in your inbox with tips, tricks, and variations to help you perfect every seasonal gathering.

Why You’ll Love These Caramel Apple Shots

When it comes to seasonal cocktails, simplicity and flavor go hand in hand. These Caramel Apple Shots are proof that you don’t need a lot of ingredients or complicated techniques to create something memorable. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:

The Perfect Fall Flavor Combination
Caramel apples are a fall classic, but who says we can’t enjoy them in liquid form? These shots take the tart crispness of apples and pair it with rich, buttery caramel for a drinkable dessert that’s as fun as it is delicious. The tartness of sour apple schnapps is balanced perfectly by the creamy sweetness of butterscotch schnapps, creating a flavor profile that feels indulgent yet light.

Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Impact
With just three main ingredients—sour apple schnapps, butterscotch schnapps, and lemon juice—this recipe is delightfully easy to pull together. The optional whipped cream and caramel drizzle add a touch of flair that will wow your guests without adding extra work. It’s the ultimate example of “less is more.”

Customizable for Every Occasion
Whether you’re throwing a Halloween bash, hosting a cozy bonfire, or simply enjoying a quiet night in, these shots are the perfect addition to any fall celebration. You can serve them in traditional shot glasses or get creative by using hollowed-out mini apples as edible shot cups.

Crowd-Pleasing Presentation
One of the best things about these shots is how versatile their presentation can be. Garnish with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant touch, or sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg for an extra dose of autumnal warmth. If you’re looking to truly wow your guests, serve these in mini green apple halves—they’re festive, fun, and totally Instagram-worthy.

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Shots

To make these fall-inspired shots, you’ll need:

• 1 oz Sour Apple Schnapps: This provides the tart, tangy apple flavor that makes these shots stand out.
• 1 oz Butterscotch Schnapps: Sweet, buttery, and full of caramel goodness, this is what transforms the shots into a drinkable dessert.
• A Splash of Lemon Juice: Adds a fresh, bright note that balances the richness of the schnapps.
• Optional Garnishes: Whipped cream and caramel drizzle for a decadent finishing touch.
• Serving Suggestion: Mini green apple halves (optional but highly recommended!) to take the presentation to the next level.

Tools You’ll Need

No fancy bar equipment is required for this recipe, but a few basic tools will make the process even smoother:

• Cocktail Shaker: Essential for blending the schnapps and lemon juice into a silky-smooth mixture.
• Strainer: Ensures a clean, ice-free pour into your shot glasses.
• Shot Glasses: Classic glass shot glasses are a staple, but if you’re feeling creative, hollowed-out mini apples make a stunning alternative.
• Small Spoon or Squeeze Bottle: Perfect for drizzling caramel sauce with precision.

How to Make Caramel Apple Shots

Creating these shots is quick and simple. Follow these steps to ensure a perfect result every time:

Shake It Up

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the following:

• 1 oz sour apple schnapps
• 1 oz butterscotch schnapps
• A splash of lemon juice

Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds to chill the mixture and ensure the flavors are well combined. This step is crucial for achieving that smooth, silky texture.

Strain and Pour

Using a strainer, carefully pour the mixture into your shot glasses or prepared mini apple halves. Straining ensures that no ice makes its way into the glass, giving you a clean and polished finish.

Garnish for Flair

Now comes the fun part—garnishing! Top each shot with a dollop of whipped cream, then drizzle with caramel sauce for that extra festive touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a hint of spice.

Serve and Enjoy

These shots are best served immediately while they’re perfectly chilled. Hand them out to your guests and prepare for the compliments to roll in!

Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Apple Shots

Chill Your Glasses
For an extra-cold and refreshing shot, place your shot glasses in the freezer for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Make Ahead for Parties
If you’re hosting a larger gathering, you can mix the schnapps and lemon juice in advance and store the mixture in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, simply shake with ice and pour.

Experiment with Ratios
Feel free to tweak the ratio of schnapps to suit your taste. Prefer a sweeter shot? Add a bit more butterscotch schnapps. Craving more tartness? Increase the amount of sour apple schnapps.

Creative Serving Ideas

Want to take your presentation to the next level? Here are some fun ways to serve Caramel Apple Shots:

Mini Apple Halves
Hollow out small green apples and use them as edible shot glasses. Not only do they look amazing, but they also add a subtle apple essence to each sip. To prepare, cut the apples in half, scoop out the center with a melon baller, and coat the edges with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Salted Caramel Rim
Dip the rims of your shot glasses in caramel sauce, then coat with a pinch of sea salt for an irresistible sweet-salty combo.

Festive Additions
Sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the whipped cream for an extra dose of autumnal flavor. You could also add a tiny apple slice as a garnish for a decorative touch.

What to Serve with Caramel Apple Shots

These shots are a fantastic standalone treat, but if you’re looking to create a full-on fall spread, here are some complementary snacks and dishes:

• Apple Pie Bites: Mini pastries filled with spiced apple filling, perfect for a handheld snack.
• Caramel Popcorn: Sweet, crunchy, and addictive—just like these shots!
• Charcuterie Board: Include sliced apples, sharp cheddar, candied nuts, and honey for a mix of sweet and savory flavors that pair beautifully with the shots.
• Pumpkin Spice Cookies: Add a little pumpkin spice to the mix for an extra festive touch.

More Fun Shot Recipes to Try

Love Caramel Apple Shots? Here are a few more creative and fun recipes to elevate your celebrations:

• Espresso Cream Vodka Martini Jello Shots: A boozy jello shot with rich espresso flavor—perfect for coffee lovers!
• Strawberry Daiquiri Jello Shots: Sweet, fruity, and refreshing, these are a must-try for summer or anytime you want a tropical vibe.
• Sugar Cookie Pudding Shots: Creamy, festive, and irresistible—perfect for holiday parties or any occasion where dessert meets cocktails.

FAQs About Caramel Apple Shots

Can I make these non-alcoholic?
Yes! For a non-alcoholic version, replace the schnapps with apple cider and caramel syrup. It’s a great option for kids or those who prefer to skip the booze.

How do I store leftover shots?
Leftover shots are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the mixed schnapps (without ice or garnishes) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Can I double or triple the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe scales beautifully for larger groups. Just use the same ratio of ingredients and mix in batches.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover ingredients, keep them sealed and stored in a cool, dark place (or the fridge, depending on the brand). If you’ve pre-mixed the shots, refrigerate them and give them a quick shake before serving.

Fall in Love with Caramel Apple Shots

There you have it—the ultimate fall-inspired drink! These Caramel Apple Shots are a fun, flavorful way to capture the essence of the season. With their quick prep time, crowd-pleasing flavors, and endless serving possibilities, they’re sure to become a favorite for all your autumn gatherings.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below, share your photos on Pinterest, or tag me on Instagram. Cheers to making delicious memories this fall!

Nutritional Information (Per Shot):
Calories: ~150
Carbs: 10g
Sugar: 9g
Alcohol: ~14% ABV

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