Apple Cider Mocktail
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Refreshing yet cozy, this apple cider ginger beer mocktail blends apple cider and ginger beer into the perfect fall sip.
Apple Cider Ginger Beer Mocktail
If you’re looking for a refreshing drink with a little zing but no alcohol, this apple cider mocktail is just the thing. Crisp apple cider and spicy ginger beer come together in a bubbly mix that feels like fall in a glass.
I also love that it’s completely family-friendly, just like my fauxjito. But if you’re serving adults and want to give it a boozy upgrade, you can easily add a splash of rum or bourbon, similar to my frozen dirty Shirley.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously refreshing with a spicy kick. The combo of sweet apple cider and zesty ginger beer makes every sip lively without being overpowering.
- Quick and easy. You don’t need bartending skills here, just a few ingredients, a quick stir, and you’re good to go.
- Perfect for any occasion. From holidays to casual get togethers, this mocktail can be enjoyed by all ages. I can’t wait to serve it with some apple hand pies at my next bonfire!
Ingredients Needed
Full recipe with printable directions.
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- Apple cider: The sweet base of the drink. I love picking up fresh cider from the orchard when it’s in season, but any good-quality apple cider will work.
- Orange juice: Adds brightness and a touch of natural sweetness. Fresh-squeezed is best, though bottled juice works in a pinch.
- Lime juice: Fresh-squeezed is worth it here, since bottled lime juice can sometimes leave a bitter aftertaste.
- Honey or maple syrup: Optional, but a nice way to adjust sweetness if your cider isn’t bold enough on its own.
- Cinnamon stick: Infuses a cozy, spiced undertone and doubles as a pretty garnish.
- Ginger beer: Gives the drink its bubbles and spicy kick. For a milder option, swap with ginger ale.
- Apple slices: A simple garnish that makes the mocktail look festive.
- Ice cubes: Keeps the drink chilled and crisp.
How to Make Apple Cider Mocktails
In a shaker or small pitcher, add apple cider.
Next add orange juice and honey (if using) with the cinnamon stick and stir or shake until combined.
Use a citrus squeezer to add fresh lime and give a gentle shake or stir again.
Pour the mixture into your glass and top with ginger beer. Stir gently to keep the bubbles alive. Garnish with apple slices and serve right away cold and sparkling.
Pro Tips
- Chill everything first. Just like an apple cider mimosa, cold cider and ginger beer make a crisper mocktail without relying on lots of ice.
- Gentle stir = more bubbles. Don’t stir too hard or you’ll lose the fizz.
- Dress it up. A mint sprig, apple slice, or cinnamon stick makes it look party-ready with almost no effort.
- Prep ahead. Mix the cider and citrus juice early, but add the ginger beer right before serving to keep it fizzy.
Variations
- Spiced Apple Cooler: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon and a clove for more fall flavor. You may also love this Fireball apple cider cocktail!
- Citrus Boost: Swap lime for lemon or add a splash of orange juice.
- Herbal Touch: Muddle fresh rosemary or basil before pouring in the liquids.
- Party Punch: Scale up in a punch bowl, floating apple slices and citrus wheels.
Apple Cider Ginger Beer Mocktail
Ingredients
- 4 ounces apple cider
- 2 ounces orange juice
- 1/2 ounce lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 cup ginger beer
Garnish: Apple slice, ice cubes
Instructions
- Prepare the glass. Fill a tall glass with ice so the mocktail stays nice and cold.
- Mix the base. In a shaker or small pitcher, stir together the apple cider, orange juice, lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), and a cinnamon stick until everything is well combined.
- Add ginger beer: Pour the mixture into the glass and top with ginger beer for a refreshing and spicy fizz.
- Garnish: Add apple slices and a cinnamon stick for garnish.
- Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet and tangy balance of apple cider and ginger beer, with a bright touch from the lime.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs
Chill your ingredients before mixing and use frozen apple slices as ice cubes. This keeps the drink cold without diluting the flavor.
Balance it out with extra lime juice or a splash of club soda. Choosing a “dry” style ginger beer can also tone down the sweetness.
Yes, you can easily turn this into a cocktail by adding a splash of spiced rum, bourbon, or whiskey for a cozy adult twist.
Freezing isn’t recommended once the ginger beer is added since the carbonation won’t hold up. If you’d like to prep ahead, freeze just the cider and citrus base, then add fresh ginger beer when serving.
