Apple Brandy Sour

Name: Apple Brandy Sour Cocktail Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 Juice of a Lemon; 1/2 tsp Powdered Sugar; 2 oz Apple Brandy

The Apple Brandy Sour is a classic citrus cocktail built on apple brandy, fresh lemon juice, and powdered sugar. Its balance of sweet and tart makes it a timeless choice for brandy drinkers.

🏷️Equipment: sour glass

Total

5 min

Servings

4

Difficulty

Easy

Est. Cost

$10–$16

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From Mr. Boston Drinks · by Old Mr. Boston De Luxe Official Bartender's Guide

Ingredients

1/2 Juice of a Lemon
1/2 tsp Powdered Sugar
2 oz Apple Brandy

3 Ingredients

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Instructions

1
Shake well with cracked ice and strain into 6 oz.
2
sour glass.
3
Decorate with a half-slice of lemon and a cherry.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Juice fresh lemon and measure precisely—too much lemon overpowers the brandy's subtle apple notes.
Shake vigorously with ice for 10-15 seconds to properly chill, dilute, and incorporate the powdered sugar.
Strain immediately after shaking to avoid over-dilution and maintain a silky mouthfeel.
Taste after shaking and adjust sweetness with a touch more sugar if your lemon is particularly tart.

Substitutions

Apple brandy → Calvados (French origin, more refined)
Powdered sugar → Simple syrup, 1/2 tsp (faster dissolve, slightly thinner body)
Lemon juice → Fresh lime juice (more tropical profile)

Equipment

cocktail shaker · strainer · jigger

Common Questions

Can I use fresh sugar instead of powdered sugar?

Powdered sugar dissolves faster and creates better texture; regular sugar may not fully incorporate without shaking vigorously. Powdered is recommended.

What type of apple brandy works best?

Calvados (French apple brandy) is traditional and smooth, but American apple brandy or applejack also work well. Choose a quality spirit you'd drink on its own.