This Sparkling Apple Cider Mocktail is a fun and fizzy drink that’s perfect for any celebration! It’s made with crisp apple cider and a splash of sparkling water, giving it a refreshing twist.
Every sip feels like a little party in your mouth! I love serving this at family gatherings. Just pour over ice and add some slices of apple for a cute touch. Cheers to bubbly fun! 🍎🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Cider: Look for 100% apple cider for the best flavor. If it’s not available, you can use unsweetened apple juice instead; just know it won’t have that rich, spiced taste.
Sparkling Water: Club soda works great for a little extra fizz. You can substitute it with tonic water if you want a touch more flavor. Seltzer is also a perfect option.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal, but bottled lemon juice is fine in a pinch. It adds a nice tartness that balances the sweetness of the cider.
Ground Cinnamon: If you don’t have ground cinnamon, you can use cinnamon sticks as a garnish instead. The spice will infuse your drink as it sits!
How Do You Make a Perfect Mocktail Without Losing Fizz?
The secret to keeping your sparkling mocktail fizzy is in how you mix it. Start by adding the cider and lemon juice first before the sparkling water. This way, you’re not agitating the bubbles too much.
- Fill your glass with ice before adding any liquid to chill it down quickly.
- Add the apple cider and lemon juice gently, then sprinkle in the ground cinnamon.
- Top with chilled sparkling water, pouring slowly to minimize fizz loss.
- Stir gently with a long spoon or straw to combine, taking care not to overmix.
Sparkling Apple Cider Mocktail
Ingredients:
- 1 cup apple cider (chilled)
- 1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda (chilled)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon, plus extra for garnish
- Apple slices, for garnish
- Ice cubes
- 1 cinnamon stick per glass (optional)
- Fresh thyme sprig (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful mocktail takes about 5 minutes to prepare! It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for parties or a refreshing drink on a warm day.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glass:
Start by filling your favorite glass with ice cubes. This will keep your drink perfectly chilled and refreshing as you mix the ingredients.
2. Combine the Base:
Once your glass is filled with ice, pour in the chilled apple cider and fresh lemon juice. The lemon juice adds a nice zing to balance the sweetness of the cider!
3. Add the Spice:
Next, sprinkle in the ground cinnamon. This will give your mocktail a warm and cozy flavor. Stir gently with a spoon to combine all the ingredients without spilling any!
4. Add the Fizz:
Top off your drink with the chilled sparkling water or club soda. Pour it slowly to keep the bubbles intact, giving that fizzy effect we love. Exciting fizz is key!
5. Final Touches:
Gently stir one more time to make sure everything is mixed well. Be careful not to stir too hard so you don’t lose the sparkle!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Now, for the fun part—garnish your drink! Add thin apple slices on the rim, a cinnamon stick if you’re feeling fancy, and maybe a fresh thyme sprig for that extra pop of color and flavor.
7. Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top for an aromatic touch. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing sparkling apple cider mocktail! Perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Store-Bought Apple Juice Instead of Cider?
Yes, you can use store-bought apple juice in place of apple cider. Just opt for an unsweetened variety to replicate the deeper flavor of cider, though the mocktail will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Mocktail Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet drink, increase the amount of fresh lemon juice. You can also dilute the apple cider with a bit more sparkling water or club soda to balance out the sweetness.
How to Store Leftover Mixing Ingredients?
Store any leftover apple cider in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure it’s in an airtight container. Sparkling water should also be kept sealed and used within a few days of opening for the best fizz.
Can I Make This Mocktail in Bulk?
Absolutely! To make a larger batch, simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of servings you need, mixing everything in a pitcher. Just add the sparkling water right before serving to ensure it stays fizzy!