Looking for a refreshing drink that brings cozy apple and cinnamon flavors without the alcohol? The Apple Cinnamon Delight Mocktail combines sweet apple juice, warm cinnamon, and fizzy soda for a perfect treat any time of year.
This simple mocktail recipe requires just a few ingredients and takes less than five minutes to prepare.
This drink works wonderfully for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or anytime you want something special without alcohol. The blend of apple and cinnamon creates a comforting flavor that appeals to both adults and children alike.
The recipe can be dressed up with garnishes like apple slices, cinnamon sticks, or a sprinkle of nutmeg on top.
Serve it cold over ice for a refreshing option, or warm for a cozy evening drink when temperatures drop.
Apple Cinnamon Delight Mocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Measuring jigger or measuring cups
- Apple slicer (optional)
- Cinnamon stick for garnish
Ingredients
- 4 oz fresh apple cider or juice
- 2 oz cinnamon syrup*
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 apple sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 4-6 oz ginger ale or sparkling water
- Dash of ground cinnamon
- Ice cubes
- Cinnamon stick and apple slice for garnish
To make cinnamon syrup:
- Combine 1 cup water 1 cup sugar, and 3 cinnamon sticks in a small pot.
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Strain and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Instructions
- Add apple slices to the cocktail shaker and muddle gently to release the flavors.
- Fill a highball glass with fresh ice cubes.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
- Top with ginger ale or sparkling water.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine all ingredients.
- Garnish with a fresh apple slice and cinnamon stick.
- The drink should have a light amber color with a refreshing apple aroma. The foam on top from shaking gives it a professional appearance.
Notes
Tasting Notes
The Apple Cinnamon Delight Mocktail offers a balanced blend of sweet and spicy flavors. The first sip delivers the fresh apple taste, followed by warm cinnamon notes that linger pleasantly.
The drink has a smooth texture with a slight fizz from the sparkling water. Its aroma combines the scent of fresh apples with the warmth of cinnamon sticks and a hint of citrus from the lemon.
Flavor Profile:
- Primary: Fresh apple, sweet cinnamon
- Secondary: Subtle lemon, honey warmth
- Finish: Gently spiced with cinnamon
The color ranges from light amber to golden, depending on the apple juice used. When garnished with an apple slice and cinnamon stick, the visual appeal matches the flavor experience.
This mocktail tastes best when served cold but not icy. The temperature allows the cinnamon and apple flavors to shine without being muted by extreme cold.
The drink’s sweetness level can be adjusted by varying the honey amount. Most tasters find the standard recipe provides moderate sweetness that appeals to both those who prefer sweet drinks and those who don’t.
Substitutes
If you don’t have all the ingredients for the Apple Cinnamon Delight Mocktail, don’t worry! There are many easy swaps you can make.
Apple Juice Alternatives:
- White grape juice
- Pear nectar
- Apple cider
Cinnamon Alternatives:
- Nutmeg (use half the amount)
- Allspice
- Apple pie spice mix
For a less sweet version, replace simple syrup with honey or maple syrup. These natural sweeteners add different flavor notes to the drink.
No fresh apples for garnish? Try dried apple slices or a cinnamon stick instead. A slice of pear can also work as a nice garnish option.
Sparkling water can replace club soda with no change in taste. Meanwhile, ginger ale makes a good substitute if you prefer a stronger flavor, but it adds sweetness.
For a hot version during colder months, warm the apple juice and skip the ice and club soda. This creates a cozy hot apple cider variation.
