I'm all about simple fall sips that feel cozy without being too sweet. This apple cider mocktail brings together chilled cider, fizzy ginger beer, and a cinnamon-sugar rim for a refreshing drink that still tastes like fall. It's perfect to throw together for football Saturdays, pumpkin carving, or a quiet night on the couch.
As a dietitian, I love when a fun drink also brings a little nourishment. Apple cider naturally contains polyphenols, which support overall wellness, and pairing it with diet ginger beer keeps it light while still giving you that crisp apple-ginger flavor.
This one checks all the boxes for a family friendly fall drink, and if you want something icy and fun, my apple cider slushie is another easy nonalcoholic favorite.
Need a stronger fall cocktail? Try my cranberry orange bourbon cocktail or caramel apple sangria!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: This fall mocktail comes together in minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
- Light yet flavorful: Using diet ginger beer keeps it bright and bubbly without weighing the drink down.
- Kid-friendly and family-friendly: Apple cider adds natural flavor and a touch of nostalgia, making it a fun option for all ages.
Looking for fall-inspired recipes? Check out my 2 ingredient pumpkin holes, apple butter bread, or slow cooker pumpkin apple butter!
Ingredients
This mocktail uses simple, flavorful ingredients that highlight fall without being overly sweet.
- Apple cider: The star of the show! Choose a fresh, high-quality apple cider for the best flavor. It's packed with antioxidants and has that classic fall season taste thanks to the cozy spices. Make sure to shop local by checking out an apple orchard in your area. If you're in Georgia, B.J. Reece Orchards is one of my favorites.
- Diet ginger beer: This adds a bold, slightly spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the apple cider. It's a great way to add flavor without extra calories or sugar. Goslings Diet Ginger Beer is one of my favorites!
- Cinnamon sugar: Perfect for rimming the glass to add an extra layer of flavor and make each sip even more yummy.
See recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and exact measurements.
Substitutions & Variations
Here are a few easy swaps and ways to make this recipe your own.
- If you're not a fan of ginger beer, try sparkling water with a hint of ginger, cranberry, orange, or pomegranate for a different twist. Tip: Waterloo has a limited-edition apple cider flavor that'd be perfect for this mocktail!
- For a sweeter kick, use ginger ale instead of ginger beer to add layers of flavor.
- For a sweet flavor option, swap the cider for apple juice, orange juice, or cranberry juice.
- If you prefer a sweeter mocktail, you can add a touch of maple syrup or simple syrup for extra flavor.
- Instead of cinnamon sugar, you can rim the glass with coconut sugar, brown sugar, raw sugar, or caramel sauce for a richer, dessert-like experience.
How to Make a Sparkling Apple Cider Mocktail
Here is how to bring this fall drink together.
Step 1: Moisten the rim of the glass with water and dip it into a plate of cinnamon sugar.
Step 2: Fill the glass halfway with ice cubes.
Step 3: Add chilled apple cider to fill the glass halfway.
Step 4: Top with diet ginger beer (or sparkling water if using).
Step 5: Stir gently to combine. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slice, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips For the Best Apple Cider Mocktail
Here are a few simple ways to make your apple cider mocktail taste its best.
- Make sure both the apple cider and ginger beer are well-chilled before mixing to keep the drink refreshing.
- Opt for unfiltered, fresh apple cider for a robust, sweet apple flavor.
- No need for a cocktail shaker! Just gently stir the ingredients to keep that natural fizz!
Storage
Here is how to store your leftovers mocktail!
- Refrigerate: If you have leftovers, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Preferably, do not add the ginger beer until needed since it will lose its bubbles!
FAQ
While this recipe is designed to be a non-alcoholic beverage, you can certainly use hard cider for a boozy version. Keep in mind the nutritional values will change.
For best results, prepare the apple cider base in advance, but only add the ginger beer when ready to serve to maintain the fizz.
Fresh cranberries, star anise, or even a slice of orange can add a beautiful touch to this delicious drink.
No, apple cider and apple cider vinegar are not the same. Apple cider is a sweet, non-alcoholic juice made from pressed apples, while apple cider vinegar is fermented apple juice that has a tangy taste and is often used in cooking and salad dressings. Apple cider vinegar is much stronger in flavor and acidity and is not suitable for use in this mocktail recipe.
Yes, you can easily make a large batch of this recipe for a crowd! Mix the desired amount of apple cider with ginger beer in a large pitcher. Keep it chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Be sure to add the sparkling water just before serving to maintain the fizz.
Apple Cider Mocktail
Equipment
- Small plate for cinnamon sugar
- Measuring cups
- Glass
- Spoon
Ingredients
- ½ cup chilled apple cider
- ½ cup diet ginger beer
- ice cubes
- cinnamon sugar for rimming the glass
- Optional garnishes: cinnamon stick, apple slices
Instructions
- Rim the glass with cinnamon sugar by moistening the rim with water or apple cider and dipping it into a plate of cinnamon sugar.
- Fill the glass halfway with ice cubes.
- Add ½ cup of chilled apple cider.
- Top with ½ cup of diet ginger beer (or sparkling water if using).
- Stir gently to combine. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slices if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a sweeter option, you can add a touch of maple syrup or simple syrup to taste.
- Try sparkling water for a lighter, more subtle flavor, or ginger ale for a spicier kick.
- For a fun frozen version, blend apple cider with ice and top with diet ginger beer.
Jackie says
Love that it only uses 2 ingredients!