The Appletini (short for Apple Martini) is a crisp, tart, and subtly sweet cocktail that gained fame during the 1990s cocktail revival. Bright green, served in a chilled martini glass, and bursting with sour apple flavor, the Appletini became a pop culture favorite — known as much for its fun appearance as for its refreshing taste.
The drink is said to have been invented at Lola’s in West Hollywood, where a bartender reportedly combined vodka and sour apple liqueur for a customer looking for something fruity but strong. The result? A modern classic that still holds a firm spot on cocktail menus worldwide.
Don’t let the neon look fool you — a well-made Appletini is surprisingly balanced: fruity and sharp, with a smooth vodka base and a zesty finish.
Classic Appletini Recipe
Ingredients:
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4 cl (1⅓ oz) vodka
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2 cl (⅔ oz) sour apple liqueur (such as De Kuyper Sour Apple or Apple Pucker)
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2 cl (⅔ oz) fresh lemon or lime juice
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1 cl (⅓ oz) simple syrup (optional – depending on sweetness level)
Optional garnish:
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Thin apple slice
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Apple chip
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Lime wheel
Instructions:
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Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
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Add vodka, apple liqueur, citrus juice, and simple syrup (if using).
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Shake well for 10–15 seconds until thoroughly chilled.
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Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
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Garnish with a slice of apple or lime — and enjoy immediately.
Bartender Tips:
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For a brighter green color, use a vibrant sour apple liqueur or add a tiny drop of green food coloring.
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Want a cleaner look? Fine-strain your cocktail to remove ice shards.
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Rubbing a lime peel around the glass rim adds a nice aromatic touch.
The Appletini is a fun, eye-catching cocktail that’s perfect for dinner parties, cocktail hours, or nights when you want something light, tart, and a little nostalgic.
Cheers!