Apple Pie Martini

Sure it's autumn and it's apple season and we've been baking them into cakes and tossing them into salads. Sometimes we even get a little crazy and just eat them as they are! When I was growing up my mother would frequently make me an afternoon snack of apple slices and cottage cheese...and yes, I loved it. Sometimes I still make it for myself although I can't quite seem to get Brian excited about the cottage cheese...

But today's recipe is not about childhood treats but, rather, a very adult one. Apples make great cocktails. Oh sure, you've probably seen those neon green apple martinis in trendy bars (what on earth is causing that color??) but this refreshing drink uses natural apple juice and lots of fragrant cinnamon. An absolutely perfect autumn cocktail. Cheers!

Per Serving:
2 oz. Vanilla vodka
1 1/2 oz. Unsweetened apple juice
1/2 oz. Simple syrup
1/2 oz. Lemon juice
Pinch of cinnamon

Combine all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker.  Fill with ice, shake well and pour into a chilled cocktail glass.  Garnish with a slice or two of apple.