Place the apples and water in a saucepan and heat over medium heat. Cook until the mixture is simmering and the apple is tender and begins to break down. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth and blended. Strain over a fine mesh sieve into a measuring cup.

The amount of honeycrisp juice you have is how much sugar you need. If you have 1/2 cup, use 1/2 cup sugar. Equal parts. Place both the honeycrisp juice and the sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is simmering. Remove from the heat and let cool completely. Store in a sealed container in the fridge.

Place an ice cube(s) in a chilled tumble and add the honeycrisp syrup. Add a few drops of bitters, then add the bourbon. Stir, add the apple slices and serve. If desired, you can rim the glass in cinnamon sugar or sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top of the apples.