Here's how to make a perfectly balanced gin & tonic with subtle notes of seasonal citrus, spices, and cider for fall.
When fall hits, everyone seems to flock to warm and cozy drinks, which I totally understand. I like a good cider or hot cocoa as much as the next person but sometimes want something that hits a little different, if you know what I mean. Since I've got plenty of delicious whiskey cocktails already on the blog I figured I'd show my number two spirit some love. Gin is my number two spirit, by the way. A few easy ingredients later and the best fall gin & tonic you will ever sip was born. If you're wondering how do you spice up a gin and tonic for the fall season, you're in the right place. Let's get into it!
And if you love fall cocktail ideas, check these out, too.

What's in a Fall Gin & Tonic?
A basic gin & tonic consists of gin, tonic water, and a twist of lime. To make this autumn gin & tonic recipe, I incorporate seasonal citrus, cider, and spices. The outcome is just perfect for sipping on this time of year.
- Apple Cider
- Cinnamon Stick
- Clove Buds
- Gin
- Orange
- Tonic Water
Can I use ground spices in this drink? One thing to note with this cocktail is that you can't substitute ground cinnamon or cloves here. You've to to use cinnamon sticks and clove buds because they add just a touch of spice without taking over. Plus they're nicer looking garnishes than the ground up spices, right?
Apple Cider Gin & Tonic Cocktail Video
What tools do you need to make a gin & tonic drink? Nothing fancy is required to make this recipe. A jigger or a trusty shot glass to measure out your apple cider and gin, and a rocks glass are really all that you'll need. If you want to use a large, fancy ice cube like mine, grab a hand little silicone mold for that. I love this gin & tonic for autumn because it provides cozy fall feels without the sweetness many fall cocktails seem to include. Don't get me wrong--my sweet tooth is alive and well. This fall gin & tonic is just refreshing in all the right ways. And it takes less than five minutes to make!

The beauty of the classic gin & tonic recipe lies in it's simplicity. The tonic water and citrus allow the herbal flavors of the gin to really shine but lessen the sting of the alcohol. It's one of my favorite easy cocktails to make at home and I like to switch up the citrus between, lime, orange, and grapefruit just depending on what I have on hand. Grapefruit in a gin and tonic is life-changing, by the way. You must try it. Anyway, I use a half slice of orange in this spiced gin & tonic to make it a truly seasonal cocktail.
What Else Can you Put in a Gin & Tonic Recipe?
There are lots of creative gin & tonic recipes out in these internet streets, not the least of which is the Spanish-style gin & tonic, which adds in all kinds of fun garnishes like peppercorns, dried juniper berries, seasonal fruits, veggies, and herbs. Think of the bloody Mary at your favorite over-the-top brunch spot. The options are seemingly endless. So in developing this fall gin & tonic recipe, I wanted to be sure not to play with the drink so much that you wouldn't recognize it as a gin & tonic anymore--by looks or by taste. Here are more flavored gin & tonic recipes I love:
Make this fall gin & tonic for your very next happy hour at home. I know you'll enjoy. And sharing is caring so be sure to pin this recipe on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!


Fall Gin & Tonic
Ingredients
- ice
- 2 ounces gin
- 1 ounce apple cider
- tonic water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4-5 clove buds
- 1 orange slice
Instructions
- Fill a glass about halfway with ice. Pour in gin and apple cider then top up with tonic water.
- Use a cinnamon stick to stir the cocktail. Add cinnamon stick, clove buds, and orange slice to glass as garnish.
- Enjoy responsibly!
Video
Nutrition



Marta says
Gin is one of my favorite spirits, so I always have some in our home bar. This cocktail was the perfect way to end the first day of fall. We sat in our patio and enjoyed the first cool evening we've had in a long time!
Lilly says
This recipe was so easy to follow and the flavors are perfect! The apple cider and gin pair so perfectly together! Thanks for the recipe!
Jeri says
Gin + Tonics are my go-to drink, and this fall adaptation was delicious! The warm notes from the cinnamon and clove was terrific–perfect for fall! Thank you!
Robin says
Since Fall is my favorite season and gin and tonic is my favorite cocktail, I automatically knew I would be into this drink. I was so right.
Karla says
I am normally not a gin and tonic person, but this recipe has changed my mind. It is the perfect combo of fall
Jazz says
Oh, this is a great entry into G&Ts! I have a few other versions on the blog, in case you want to explore more.
Tamara Johnson says
Such a delicious and comforting drink! The apple cider was so delicious in this gin and tonic. I can't wait to make another batch this weekend.
Chenée says
I made one of these for happy hour today and it was perfect. The spices were so well balanced and I love the splash of apple cider! The perfect fall drink.
Britney Brown says
We sat on the patio with this gin and tonic and enjoyed every sip! Perfect night cap for those crisp Fall nights!
Janel says
Somehow cozy and refreshing at the same time. This is my new fall drink of choice. Thanks!