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.
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.
- 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.