Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cozy and comforting apple flavor with a refreshing twist
Completely alcohol-free and family-friendly
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect for holidays, fall parties, or casual sipping
Can be served chilled or over ice
Easily adjustable for sweetness and spice
Naturally gluten-free and vegan
Beautiful presentation with apple slices and cinnamon sticks
Great for both kids and adults
Can be made in individual glasses or as a party pitcher

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apple cider (chilled)
Sparkling water or club soda
Fresh lemon juice or orange juice
Maple syrup or honey (optional, to taste)
Ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
Ice cubes
Optional garnish: apple slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, or orange slices

Directions

In a glass or pitcher, combine apple cider, citrus juice, sweetener (if using), and a pinch of cinnamon or spice.
Stir well to combine.
Add ice cubes to serving glasses.
Pour the cider mixture over the ice.
Top with sparkling water or club soda.
Garnish with apple slices, a cinnamon stick, or a slice of orange.
Serve immediately and enjoy cold.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2 to 4 servings and takes 5–10 minutes to prepare.

Variations

Cranberry Apple Cider: Add a splash of cranberry juice for a tangy twist.
Spiced Apple Ginger: Add a dash of ginger juice or top with ginger ale.
Sparkling Apple Lime: Swap lemon juice for lime for a tart citrus edge.
Herbal Touch: Add rosemary or thyme sprigs for an aromatic finish.
Chai Cider Mocktail: Add chilled brewed chai tea for a spiced fusion.
Apple Pomegranate: Mix with pomegranate juice for bold flavor and color.
Frozen Cider Slush: Blend ingredients with ice for a frozen treat.
No Sparkle: Use still water for a non-fizzy version.
Vanilla Apple Cider: Add a drop of vanilla extract for a warm, sweet touch.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cider mixture (without sparkling water) in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add sparkling water just before serving.
Reheating: Not applicable for this cold mocktail. For a warm version, heat apple cider with spices, but skip the sparkling water.

FAQs

What is an apple cider mocktail?

It’s a non-alcoholic drink made with apple cider, citrus juice, and sparkling water, often flavored with spices for a festive, fall-inspired taste.

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes, but apple cider has a richer, deeper flavor. Use unsweetened apple juice if possible.

Do I have to use sparkling water?

No, you can use still water, but sparkling adds a refreshing fizz.

Can I make this drink warm?

Yes, simply heat the apple cider with spices and skip the sparkling water for a warm spiced drink.

Is this drink good for kids?

Absolutely—it’s alcohol-free and fun to garnish, making it a hit with kids and teens.

Can I make a big batch?

Yes! Mix the base ingredients in a large pitcher and add sparkling water just before serving.

What’s the best garnish?

Apple slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and orange wedges look festive and add flavor.

How sweet is this drink?

That depends on your cider and added sweetener. Taste and adjust to your liking.

Can I add other juices?

Yes, try cranberry, pomegranate, or pear juice for fun variations.

Is it suitable for all seasons?

While perfect for fall and winter, it’s great year-round—especially when served chilled with citrus.

Conclusion

The Apple Cider Mocktail is a festive and flavorful drink that brings together the cozy taste of apple cider with citrus and sparkle. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a fall gathering, or just want something seasonal and fun, this mocktail delivers delicious warmth in a chilled, bubbly glass. Easy to prepare and beautiful to serve, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite.

Apple Cider Mocktail

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The Apple Cider Mocktail is a cozy and refreshing non-alcoholic drink that blends crisp apple cider with sparkling water, warm spices, and a hint of citrus. Served chilled or over ice, it’s a festive and flavorful drink perfect for fall and holiday occasions.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5–10 minutes
Yield: 2 to 4 servings
Category: Beverages
Method: Mixed
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups chilled apple cider
1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or orange juice
1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (optional, to taste)
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
Ice cubes
Optional garnish: apple slices, cinnamon sticks, star anise, orange slices

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Instructions

In a pitcher or mixing glass, combine apple cider, citrus juice, sweetener (if using), and a pinch of cinnamon or spice.
Stir well to mix the flavors.
Fill serving glasses with ice cubes.
Pour the cider mixture over the ice.
Top with sparkling water or club soda.
Garnish with apple slices, a cinnamon stick, or a slice of orange if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy chilled.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use unfiltered apple cider instead of apple juice.
Make the base ahead of time and add sparkling water just before serving to keep it fizzy.
Adjust the sweetness based on how sweet your apple cider is.
Try warming the base mixture (without sparkling water) for a cozy hot drink version.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 glass (about 1.25 cups)
Calories: 70
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 10mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg