Salted Caramel Apple Cider Mocktail Recipe

When fall rolls around, I honestly can’t wait for all the cozy drinks, and this Salted Caramel Apple Cider Mocktail is right at the top of my list. It’s super easy to make—sweet apple cider, rich caramel, and just a little salt come together for a festive, non-alcoholic fall treat.

It really does taste like a caramel apple, but in a glass, which is kind of amazing. Making this mocktail takes just a few minutes, so it’s not a hassle at all.

It’s one of those drinks that works well at family get-togethers or holiday parties, since nobody has to miss out. If you’re bored with plain apple cider, this is honestly a fun twist.

Salted Caramel Apple Cider Mocktail Recipe

I keep coming back to this mocktail because it’s easy, festive, and, yeah, just plain delicious. With fresh apple cider, caramel sauce, cinnamon, and a splash of fizzy ginger ale, I can whip up something that feels a little special.

Equipment

• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Tall glass or mason jar
• Small bowl (for caramel or sugar rim, if you’re into that)
• Spoon or small whisk (for mixing)
• Ice cube tray
• Vegetable peeler (if you want to get fancy with apple slices)
• Paper towels (for wiping glass rims)
• Straw (optional, but fun)
• Small plate (for demerara sugar or cinnamon rim)

Having everything ready makes things smoother. If I’m in the mood for a sugared rim, I’ll grab a small plate and a bowl for caramel sauce. Tall glasses are great for layering and ice.

A peeler is nice for garnishes, but honestly, you can skip it if you’re not feeling extra.

Ingredients

• 1 cup chilled apple cider (fresh or sparkling—depends on your mood)
• 2 tablespoons caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade, whatever’s handy)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup ginger ale or sparkling ginger beer
• Whipped cream (for topping, totally optional)
• Demerara sugar (for rimming, optional)
• Cinnamon stick (for garnish, optional)
• Apple slice or peel (for garnish, optional)
• Ice cubes

I usually grab my favorite apple cider for that bold, crisp flavor. Caramel sauce is non-negotiable for me—gotta have that sweetness—and a pinch of sea salt really pulls it all together.

Ginger ale or ginger beer adds a nice sparkle. For folks who like it sweeter, whipped cream and a sugared rim make it almost dessert-like.

Instructions

• Fill your glass up with ice cubes.
• Pour the caramel sauce in, then sprinkle in the sea salt.
• Add the apple cider and stir gently, just until the caramel is mostly mixed in.
• Top off with ginger ale or ginger beer for that fizz.
• If you’re using whipped cream, spoon it on top carefully.
• For a fancy touch, dip the rim of your glass in caramel sauce, then in demerara sugar or cinnamon.
• Garnish with a cinnamon stick or apple slice if you’re feeling creative.
• Pop in a straw and enjoy right away.

Mixing with the caramel at the bottom gives the drink a little extra richness. The ginger ale makes the bubbles rise, which is honestly kind of fun to watch.

If you rim the glass and add a garnish, it looks way more impressive than the effort it takes.

Notes

If you want a bigger cinnamon kick, use both ground cinnamon and a cinnamon stick. Sometimes I make my own caramel sauce for a deeper flavor, but honestly, store-bought works just fine when you’re in a rush.

Dial back the caramel if you don’t want it too sweet, or swap in sparkling apple cider for a lighter vibe. Ginger beer will make things spicier, while ginger ale keeps it mellow.

Demerara sugar on the rim adds a little crunch and sweetness, which I think is a nice touch.

You can change up the look with apple slices, whipped cream, or cinnamon sticks—whatever you’ve got. This mocktail’s best served fresh and icy cold, so don’t skimp on the ice.

Tasting Notes

When I take my first sip of the salted caramel apple mocktail, the apple flavor jumps out right away. It’s got that crisp, almost tart apple vibe, but the sweetness doesn’t smack you in the face.

The cider brings this fresh, unmistakably autumn taste. I guess that’s what makes it feel so seasonal.

Next up, the caramel makes itself known. It’s smooth and buttery, kind of melts into the apple without overpowering it.

Honestly, it’s sweet, but not in a cloying way—just enough to keep things interesting.

That pinch of salt in the caramel? It really ties everything together. Somehow, it brightens the apple and keeps the drink from veering into dessert territory.

I always notice a tiny bit of salt lingering on my lips after a sip. Not complaining.

If I use sparkling apple cider, there’s a little fizziness going on. That pop makes it feel lighter and just a bit more fun.

I usually serve it over ice. The drink stays cool, and the flavors mellow out as the ice melts.

Sometimes I’ll throw in a cinnamon stick or a few apple slices. The smell gets ridiculously cozy.

The whole thing just screams fall, but honestly, I’d drink it any time. It’s sweet, a bit tangy, and honestly, just really easy to enjoy.

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