It’s an ideal transition drink between summer and winter.

Simply Recipes / Laurel Randolph

Fall is a magical time at Trader Joes.

Pumpkins line the entrance, colorful foliage adorns the signage, and scents of cinnamon waft through the air.

Three glasses of 3-Ingredient Sparkling Apple Margarita with slices of apple inside and salt and lime on the rim against a speckled blue background

Simply Recipes / Laurel Randolph

The specialty grocer has a long list of returning fall items that customers look forward to every year.

One of my all-time favorite autumnal Trader Joes items is itsSparkling Apple Cider($3.49).

It tastes remarkably like Martinellis but at a slightly lower price point.

Overhead view of a green apple, lime and bottles of Trader Joe’s Sparkling Apple Cider and Arette Tequila

Simply Recipes / Laurel Randolph

Its incredibly apple-y, just sweet enough, and perfectly bubbly.

I always pick up a bottle or two once they show up on shelves.

And while it tastes greatpaired with bourbon and spice, it also makes a killer three-ingredient margarita.

A hand holding a glass of 3-Ingredient Sparkling Apple Margarita with slices of apple inside and salt and lime on the rim against an off-white background

Simply Recipes / Laurel Randolph

Why You Should Make This Fall-tastic Cocktail

This is an ideal fall cocktail for a few reasons.

First, its easy and low-key.

Sometimes during this busy season I want a festive drink, but I dont want to work for it.

Second, its full of delicious apple cider flavor.

Finally, its an ideal transition drink between summer and winter.

Its a margarita so its refreshing, but the apple and optional spiced rim make it solidly fall.

Top with plenty of ice.

Add 3 to 4 ounces of sparkling apple cider (to taste).

Gently stir, garnish, and serve.

For a party-worthy finish:Add a fun rim!

Flip the glass upside down and press the rim into the sugar-salt mixture so it adheres.