Apple Thyme Martini

Originally seen on Giada De Laurentiis but we altered it, as the version she drinks is a bit heavy on the vodka for us. ;) I loved that the simple syrup was homemade & everything else was fresh. Mmmm!

• Ready In: 15 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• Thyme Simple Syrup

• 1⁄2 cup water
• 1  cup sugar
• 5  sprigs fresh thyme

• To Assemble

•  ice
• 8  ounces vodka (I use Absolut)
• 8  ounces  apple juice
• 1⁄4 cup  thyme  syrup
• 1  large green apple, peeled
• 4  sprigs fresh thyme, optional garnish

Directions

1. Chill the martini glasses.
2. To Make syrup: In small saucepan, combine water, sugar & thyme. Bring to boil over medium heat then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat & let cool. (Leftover syrup should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.).
3. To Assemble: Fill a martini shaker with the vodka, apple juice & 1/4 cup of the thyme syrup. Shake 10 seconds & pour into 4 chilled glasses. (I use a single-serve shaker so I combine everything but ice in a pitcher & then pour into shaker from there.).
4. Use a melon baller to scoop small balls of apple. Place 3 apple balls & a sprig of fresh thyme in each glass.
5. Serve immediately.