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Cozy Spiced Apple Cider Mocktail

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A silky, warm, and gently spiced apple cider mocktail with cinnamon, cloves, and a refreshing sparkle, perfect for cozy fall evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (950 ml) apple cider (100% cider, not apple juice)
  • 2 whole cinnamon sticks
  • 6–8 whole cloves
  • 1–2 pieces star anise (optional)
  • 3–4 thin slices fresh ginger
  • Orange peel from 1 medium orange
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey/agave nectar)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sparkling water
  • Cinnamon sticks and thin apple slices for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pour 4 cups (950 ml) of apple cider into a medium saucepan. Add 2 cinnamon sticks, 6-8 whole cloves, 1-2 star anise pieces (if using), 3-4 thin slices of fresh ginger, and the orange peel from one medium orange. Stir to combine.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Do not boil. Let simmer for 10-12 minutes until warm and aromatic.
  3. Turn off the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of maple syrup. Adjust sweetness to taste.
  4. Strain the cider through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a heatproof pitcher or mugs to remove spices and ginger slices.
  5. Pour about 1 cup (240 ml) of sparkling water into each mug or glass. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Garnish each serving with a cinnamon stick and a few thin apple slices. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

Do not let the cider boil to preserve fresh apple brightness. Use whole spices for cleaner flavor and easier straining. Add sparkling water last and stir gently to maintain fizz. The spiced cider base can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 3 days; add sparkling water just before serving. For a chilled version, cool the spiced cider completely and serve over ice with sparkling water.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider mocktail, spiced apple cider, fall drink, non-alcoholic, cozy drink, cinnamon, cloves, sparkling water, vegan, gluten-free

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/cozy-spiced-apple-cider-mocktail-recipe-easy-perfect-fall-drink/