This seasonal apple cocktail couldnt be easier.

Its time for all things apple and spice and everything nice!

While I love amulled cider, I dont always want to turn on a stove for happy hour.

Glass of an autumn cocktail on an illustrated background

Simply Recipes / Photo Illustration by Sarah Crowder / Laurel Randolph

Per usual, Trader Joes to the rescue.

Then I grabbed their chai concentrate, and the rest is history.

Ill be making this 3-ingredient cocktail all fall and winter long.

Thanksgiving cocktail ingredients (L to R): Spiced Chai Black Tea Concentrate, Sparkling Apple Cider, and Elijah Craig Bourbon

Simply Recipes / Laurel Randolph

It would also be an incredibly easy but impressive cocktail to make for Thanksgiving!

Perfect for sipping while snacking on appetizers and putting the finishing touches on the big meal.

Why This Cocktail Works

The flavors in this drink are spot-on for a seasonal cocktail.

Autumn cocktail with a lemon wheel and candied ginger

Simply Recipes / Laurel Randolph

The chai concentrate provides the spices and a mild bitterness thanks to the tea.

The sparkling apple cider adds balanced fruity sweetness and refreshing bubbles.

Both mixers pair perfectly with bourbon or rye, smoothing out the spirits edges for a crowd-pleasing drink.

If you have a lemon handy, add a small squeeze.

Everyone whos tried this cocktail has sung its praises.

Ill be making it for Thanksgiving this yearit tastes time-consuming, but it couldnt be quicker to make.

Add ice and top with the sparkling apple cider.

If using, squeeze a small lemon wedge over the top and toss it in.

For a big party, pick up a few bottles.

Heres how to make one batch:

Combine the bourbon and chai concentrate in a pitcher and mix.

Fill six to eight glasses with ice and divide the mixture evenly between them.

Top each with sparkling apple cider.

If using, top with the lemon wedges and garnish with the candied ginger.

It lends a bit more sweet spice to the drink.

This version is also delicious when served hot!