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–+ servings

Holiday Spice Apple Cider Mocktail

Holiday Spice Apple Cider Mocktail Recipe
Warm apple cider, orange, and cozy spices meet sparkling water for this festive mocktail—served warm or cold, it’s full of comforting fall flavor without any alcohol.
John
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Serving Size 6 glasses

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Pitcher or large jar
  • Tall glasses
  • Ice cube tray

Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh apple cider
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 1 inch fresh ginger sliced
  • 1 star anise
  • Pinch nutmeg or pumpkin spice
  • 1 cup sparkling water or club soda
  • 1 apple thinly sliced
  • 1 orange thinly sliced
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

  • Pour apple cider and orange juice into a saucepan. Add brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, star anise, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Stir and bring to a low simmer.
  • Simmer for 10–15 minutes. Remove from heat and strain out spices. Let cool, then chill in fridge for at least 30 minutes.
  • Fill glasses with ice, apple and orange slices. Pour chilled cider halfway up each glass. Top with sparkling water or sparkling apple cider. Stir gently and serve.

Notes

Use fresh apple cider for best flavor. Adjust spice and sweetness to taste. Double or triple for a party. Garnish with cinnamon sticks or extra citrus for a festive touch.