BURNING BRANCH

Smoky, caramel, citrus

Try this fireside sipper with toasted almonds and pretzels after work, or pair it with a turkey dinner.

Lapsang Souchong syrup, made from smoked tea, is an excellent replacement for Scotch. In this unusual drink, you get a rich, peaty taste that’s brightened by lemon and rounded off with apple cider. During the holidays, this is a perfect nonalcoholic offering since it pairs well with fall flavors.

    2 ounces (60 ml) apple cider

    2 teaspoons Lapsang Souchong tea syrup (page 243)

    ½ ounce (15 ml) fresh lemon juice

    Lemon twist, for garnish

Shake ingredients with ice and strain over a single large cube of ice in a rocks glass. To garnish, twist the peel over the surface of the cocktail to express the oil. Then rest it on the edge of the glass.