Looking for a refreshing drink that combines sweet apples with warm cinnamon flavors? The Apple Cinnamon Float Mocktail offers a perfect alcohol-free option for any occasion.

This simple yet elegant mocktail brings together apple cider, cinnamon, and vanilla ice cream to create a delicious treat that works year-round.

Whether served at a fall gathering or as a cool summer refreshment, this mocktail provides a fun twist on traditional apple cider.

The recipe requires just a few basic ingredients and takes only minutes to prepare.

The combination of fizzy apple cider with creamy ice cream creates a delightful texture contrast that appeals to both children and adults.

The hint of cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the drink without making it too complex.

Apple Cinnamon Float Mocktail Recipe

This refreshing non-alcoholic drink combines the cozy flavors of apple and cinnamon with a creamy float topping. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a special treat any time of year.

John

Prep Time 8

Total Time 8

Serving Size

Equipment

Large pitcher
Measuring cups and spoons
Ice cream scoop
Tall glasses (12-16 oz)
Long spoons for stirring
Optional: apple slicer for garnish
Cinnamon stick for garnish

Ingredients

For the Apple Cinnamon Base:

4 cups apple cider
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 cups sparkling water chilled

For the Float Topping:

1 pint vanilla ice cream
Ground cinnamon for dusting
Thin apple slices for garnish
Cinnamon sticks for garnish

The quality of the apple cider greatly affects the final taste.

Instructions

In a pitcher, combine apple cider, ground cinnamon, honey, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir well until honey is completely dissolved.
Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to chill thoroughly and allow flavors to blend.
Just before serving, add the chilled sparkling water to the pitcher and stir gently.
Fill tall glasses about 2/3 full with the apple cinnamon mixture.
Add 1-2 scoops of vanilla ice cream to each glass.
Dust with a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
Garnish with a thin apple slice and cinnamon stick.
Serve immediately with a long spoon.

Notes

This mocktail can be adapted in several ways.

For a warmer version during winter months, use hot apple cider and skip the sparkling water. The drink works well with different ice cream flavors too – try caramel or cinnamon ice cream for extra flavor.

For kids, you might want to reduce the cinnamon slightly. Adults who want an alcoholic version can add 1 oz of bourbon or spiced rum per glass before adding the ice cream.

The base mixture (without sparkling water) can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Add the sparkling water and ice cream just before serving for best results.

For a dairy-free option, substitute with coconut or almond milk-based ice cream. The drink will still have a creamy texture but with a slight nutty undertone.

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Tasting Notes

The Apple Cinnamon Float Mocktail offers a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors. The main taste profile features fresh apple with warm cinnamon notes that complement each other perfectly.

When first sipped, the creamy vanilla ice cream blends with the apple cider to create a smooth texture. The carbonation from the ginger ale adds a pleasant fizz that makes each sip refreshing.

The cinnamon rim provides an aromatic experience before the liquid touches the lips. This spice element enhances the apple flavor without overwhelming it.

Cold temperature is key to this mocktail’s appeal. As the ice cream slowly melts, the drink transforms from a float to a creamy apple beverage with changing texture.

Flavor profile highlights:

Primary: Sweet apple with warm cinnamon
Secondary: Creamy vanilla
Finish: Light ginger notes with gentle carbonation

The drink works well in both summer and fall settings. In warmer months, it serves as a cooling treat, while in autumn it captures seasonal flavors perfectly.

This mocktail pairs nicely with desserts like apple pie or oatmeal cookies. It also stands alone as a satisfying after-dinner treat or afternoon refreshment.

Substitutes

If you don’t have all the ingredients for an Apple Cinnamon Float Mocktail, there are several easy swaps you can make.

Apple Juice Alternatives:

Apple cider
White grape juice
Pear nectar

Ice Cream Options:

Vanilla frozen yogurt
Coconut ice cream (for dairy-free)
Caramel ice cream

For those avoiding sugar, try using unsweetened apple juice with a sugar-free vanilla ice cream. Add a touch of stevia or monk fruit sweetener if needed.

No cinnamon sticks? Use 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon mixed into the juice before chilling.

The drink works well with other fruit juices too. Try pear juice for a similar flavor profile or cranberry juice for a more tart version.

To make an adult version, add 1 ounce of spiced rum or apple brandy to each serving.

Apple Cinnamon Float Mocktail Recipe