Easy Apple Cider Mocktail Recipe – Sparkling & Ready in 5 Minutes
This easy apple cider mocktail is crisp, lightly spiced, and full of fresh apple flavor. Made with apple cider, ginger beer, lemon juice, and a touch of cinnamon, this refreshing non-alcoholic drink takes only 5 minutes to prepare and is perfect for fall mornings, brunch, family gatherings, or whenever you want a simple seasonal drink.
Why this is a Great Meal
This sparkling apple cider mocktail brings together the crisp sweetness of apple cider with the warm spice of cinnamon and the zesty kick of non-alcoholic ginger beer.
Instructions
- 01
Step 1: Rim the Glasses — Mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon on a small plate. Rub a lemon wedge along the rim of two glasses, then dip the rims into the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- 02
Step 2: Fill Glasses with Ice — Place plenty of ice cubes into each prepared glass.
- 03
Step 3: Combine Cider & Spices — In a liquid measuring cup or small pitcher, combine the chilled apple cider, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and ground cinnamon. Stir well.
- 04
Step 4: Top with Ginger Beer — Divide the apple cider mixture evenly between the glasses, then top off with cold sparkling ginger beer.
- 05
Step 5: Garnish & Serve — Stir gently, then garnish each glass with fresh apple slices, a cinnamon stick, and a sprig of rosemary if desired. Serve immediately cold!
- ✦Use high-quality unfiltered apple cider for rich flavor and natural apple sweetness.
- ✦Keep both the apple cider and ginger beer well chilled before making to avoid over-diluting with ice.
- ✦Adjust ginger beer amount to your taste preference for more or less fizz and spice.
- ✦Garnish with freshly cut apple slices right before serving to keep them bright and crisp.
Need Metric or Gram Weights?
Convert cup measurements to grams using ingredient-specific density factors.
Easy Variations
Warm Spiced Apple Cider
Heat the apple cider with cinnamon sticks and lemon juice on low heat for a warm autumn beverage.
Cranberry Apple Cider Mocktail
Add 1/4 cup unsweetened cranberry juice for a tart pink-amber color and festive holiday twist.
Caramel Apple Cider Mocktail
Drizzle caramel sauce inside the glass before adding ice and cider for a dessert-style drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between apple juice and apple cider?
A: Apple cider is raw, unfiltered juice made from pressed whole apples with a richer flavor and golden amber hue, whereas apple juice is filtered and pasteurized.
Q: Is ginger beer alcoholic?
A: Most commercially sold ginger beers are non-alcoholic ginger-flavored carbonated soft drinks, but always check the label.
Q: Can I make a big pitcher in advance?
A: You can mix the apple cider, lemon juice, maple syrup, and cinnamon in a pitcher ahead of time. Add ice, ginger beer, and garnishes right before serving.
Nutrition
Approximate values — meant as a guide, not a verdict.
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