When fall rolls in and crisp air calls for apple-cinnamon sips, nothing beats this fizzy, spiced Apple Cider Mocktail. This non-alcoholic drink is naturally sweetened with fruit, so there's no added sugar, and it's compliant with the Daniel Fast.
Be sure to check out our Italian Mocktail and Orange Juice Mocktail for more healthy, no-added-sugar sips.
Why You'll Love This Apple Cider Mocktail
You’ll love this Apple Cider Mocktail because it balances cozy and refreshing in one sip. The warming spice notes (ginger, cinnamon) give it depth, while the sparkling water lifts it so it’s not heavy or cloying. It’s naturally sweet, crowd-friendly, and works for all ages. Plus, it’s easy to customize, and it makes your kitchen smell like fall.
What You Need to Make This Healthy Mocktail
- Apple cider (no added sugar): The base that gives this mocktail its natural apple sweetness, body, and that classic cider flavor
- Fresh ginger root: Adds a spicy, zesty bite and warmth.
- Cinnamon sticks: Add a cozy spice depth and aroma to this apple cider mocktail.
A full list of ingredients with exact amounts can be found in the recipe card below.
Substitutions and Variations
- Use pear cider instead of apple cider for a mellow twist.
- Add clove for a hint of pungent spice complexity.
- Use ground cinnamon (¼ tsp) instead of sticks, though you’ll lose some aromatic nuance.
- Replace sparkling water with club soda or seltzer if you prefer.
- Add a slice of fresh orange for a burst of citrus brightness.
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How to Make This Apple Cider Mocktail
Step 1: Use a microplane grater to carefully grate the fresh ginger root. If you don't have a microplane grater, use a knife to mince the ginger finely.
Step 2: Add apple cider, freshly grated ginger, cinnamon sticks, and cloves (if using) to a small pot.
Step 3: Bring the apple cider mixture to a gentle boil for 2 minutes.
Step 4: Turn off the heat and let it steep while it cools to room temperature.
Step 5: Remove the cinnamon sticks and carefully strain the mixture into a tall glass.
Step 6: Add ice and sparkling water, and gently stir to combine. Top with fresh sliced apple and enjoy!
The freshly sliced apple gives you something to nibble on while you sip this deliciously spiced drink. Don't leave it out!
Expert Tips
- Use unsweetened apple cider so you control the sweetness.
- Don’t boil vigorously; just a gentle simmer preserves the aromas.
- Letting the spiced cider steep while cooling deepens flavor without extra heat.
- Always taste before adding sparkling water. If your cider is extra juicy, you might want to dilute less.
- Chill your cider ahead of time to minimize ice melt (avoids watering down).
- For a party batch, combine the cider mixture in a pitcher and stir in sparkling water and ice just before serving to keep it bubbly.
- Not sure what to do with that leftover apple? Use it to make some Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats for tomorrow's breakfast.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, you can prepare the spiced cider base ahead (stop before adding ice and sparkling water), refrigerate, and then just stir in chilled sparkling water when ready to serve.
No, apple cider is typically less filtered, often unpasteurized or minimally processed, and has more texture and natural flavor than clear apple juice.
Once mixed with sparkling water, it’s best consumed immediately. The cider base (before fizz) can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
If you’re craving a fall-forward, festive drink that’s naturally sweet, lightly spiced, and delightfully fizzy, this Apple Cider Mocktail is your go-to. It’s simple, flexible, and crowd-pleasing. It's perfect for brunches, holiday celebrations, or cozy nights by the fire. Give it a try, tweak to your taste, and watch it become your seasonal signature sip.
Popular Healthy Mocktail Recipes to Check Out
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Apple Cider Mocktail
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider (no added sugar)
- 1 Tbsp fresh ginger root, grated
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 cloves (optional)
- 1 cup ice
- ½ cup plain sparkling water
- ¼ apple, sliced thin
Instructions
- Use a microplane grater to carefully grate the fresh ginger root. If you don't have a microplane grater, use a knife to mince the ginger finely.
- Add apple cider, freshly grated ginger, cinnamon sticks, and cloves (if using) to a small pot.
- Bring the apple cider mixture to a gentle boil for 2 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let it steep while it cools to room temperature.
- Remove the cinnamon sticks and carefully strain the mixture into a tall glass.
- Add ice and sparkling water, and gently stir to combine. Top with fresh sliced apple and enjoy!
Notes
- Use unsweetened apple cider so you control the sweetness.
- Don’t boil vigorously; just a gentle simmer preserves the aromas.
- Letting the spiced cider steep while cooling deepens flavor without extra heat.
- Always taste before adding sparkling water. If your cider is extra juicy, you might want to dilute less.
- Chill your cider ahead of time to minimize ice melt (avoids watering down).
- For a party batch, keep the cider mixture in a pitcher and stir in sparkling water and ice just before serving to keep it bubbly.
- Not sure what to do with that leftover apple? Use it to make some Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats for tomorrow's breakfast.
Sersie says
Refreshing with a kick.
Gigi & Sersie says
Very tasty and a great alternative to alcohol. The fresh ginger really gives it a nice kick.