Apple Cider Mocktail

5 from 1 vote

This Apple Cider Mocktail embodies the crisp and zesty flavors of fall. It’s a refreshing mix of freshly squeezed lemon juice, apple brown sugar syrup, and lemon ginger seltzer. This beverage is ideal for autumn festivities or whenever you're in the mood for a seasonal, non-alcoholic delight.

Prep Time5

Cook Time0

Total Time5

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Servings: mocktail

Calories: 93kcal

Author: Nataša

Equipment

double old-fashioned glass
cocktail shaker (or a mason jar)

Ingredients

Apple Brown Sugar Syrup

1 cup water
1 ½ cups brown sugar lightly packed
2 apples core removed, diced

Apple Cider Mocktail

2 ½ oz apple cider (NOT apple cider vinegar)
½ oz lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
¾ oz apple brown sugar syrup
lemon ginger seltzer (top the glass to the rim)

Instructions

Apple Brown Sugar Syrup

Wash and prepare the apples. Core them and slice into equal pieces.
Add the apple slices, brown sugar, and water to a medium-sized pot.
Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until the sugar dissolves and the syrup starts to simmer.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
Remove the pot from heat and allow the mixture to cool for 20 minutes.
Strain the syrup through a small funnel and a fine-mesh strainer, pressing lightly with a spoon to extract as much syrup as possible.
Transfer the syrup to a jar or dispenser. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 weeks.

Apple Cider Mocktail

If you haven't already, prepare the apple syrup and let it cool before using it. While the syrup is cooling, place the glass in the freezer for 10 minutes.
Add apple cider, lemon juice, apple syrup, and ice to a cocktail shaker or a jar.
Shake vigorously for 5-10 seconds.
Strain the mocktail into a chilled glass with ice and top with seltzer water.
Add garnish if preferred, like apple slices, cinnamon sticks, fresh herbs, etc.

Notes

Make the Syrup Ahead: Prepare the apple brown sugar syrup in advance to save time and allow the flavors to meld. Store it in the fridge for up to a few weeks, and add it to other fall-inspired drinks!
Chill the Ingredients: For the freshest flavor, ensure the apple cider, seltzer, and glassware are well-chilled before serving. This keeps the mocktail cold without needing too much ice, which could dilute the flavors.
Use Fresh Apple Cider: For the richest taste, choose fresh, unfiltered apple cider whenever possible. Its natural sweetness and tartness add depth to the mocktail that store-bought juice can’t quite match.
Adjust the Sweetness: To lighten the sweetness, reduce the apple brown sugar syrup or omit it if your cider is already sweet. A splash of lemon juice adds brightness for more balance, while unsweetened seltzer keeps the drink bubbly without extra sweetness. For those who like it very sweet, 1 oz of apple syrup was the perfect balance.

Nutrition