Spiced Apple Mocktail

There is nothing quite like a mug of warm, spiced apple mocktail in the holidays, when the weather is chilly and you are feeling all the festive feels. This apple juice mocktail version brings all the nostalgic holiday flavors together with fragrant cinnamon sticks, aromatic cloves, star anise and citrusy orange peel in a drink that feels both cozy and elegant.

It’s a perfect buzz free option for holiday gatherings, dinner parties or family-friendly celebrations. Serve it straight from the stovetop for a crowd or ladle it into mugs with a cinnamon stick for an intimate evening at home.

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Top it with whipped coconut cream or give it a cinnamon sugar rim for an extra festive touch. If you love this recipe, try these Gingerbread Blondies for a complete cozy season treat.

H2 Recipe

Servings: 4 to 6 mugs

Ingredients

• 4 cups apple cider (or pure pressed apple juice)

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 4 whole cloves

• 2 whole star anise pods

• Peel of 1 orange (use a vegetable peeler to remove large strips)

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey, to taste

• Optional toppings: try topping with luscious whipped coconut cream or cinnamon sugar for the rim

Instructions

1. Prepare the cider base: In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise and orange peel.

2. Simmer: Bring the apple mocktail to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce to low and let it gently simmer for 10 to 15 minutes to infuse the flavors. Do not boil the mixture.

3. Sweeten: Stir in maple syrup or honey and taste. Adjust the sweetness depending on how you like your apple juice mocktail.

4. Strain and serve: Remove the spices and orange peel. Pour the apple mocktail into mugs.

5. Garnish (optional): Top with whipped coconut cream or dip the rim of each mug in cinnamon sugar for a festive finish. Serve your apple juice mocktail warm.

H2 Why You’ll Love This Spiced Apple Cider Mocktail

• Cozy and aromatic: Perfectly spiced with warm, fragrant notes of cinnamon and cloves.

• Non alcoholic and family friendly: Everyone can enjoy this apple mocktail.

• Customizable: Adjust the spices and sweetness to suit your taste.

• Simple ingredients: Everything comes together easily on the stovetop in a couple of minutes and without loads of dishes.

• Perfect for gatherings: It’s really easy to scale up for holiday parties or cozy nights in.

Ingredient notes

• Apple cider: Use pure apple cider or unfiltered apple juice for the best flavor.

• Cinnamon sticks: Add warm spice and depth; skip the powder for a clear drink.

• Cloves and star anise: These whole spices infuse beautifully without overpowering the cider.

• Orange peel: Lifts the drink with a citrus note that balances the sweetness.

• Maple syrup or honey: Adds natural sweetness and a hint of richness.

• Coconut cream or cinnamon sugar: Optional, but it adds a festive finishing touch.

Substitutions and Variations

• Citrus peel alternatives: Swap orange peel for lemon or add a little bit of fresh orange juice.

• Spice it differently: Add in a few allspice berries or a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth.

• Chilled version: Let the cider cool, strain and serve it over ice for a refreshing winter mocktail.

• Sparkling cider: Mix equal parts spiced cider and sparkling water for a fizzy option.

• Garnish ideas: Try apple slices, star anise pods or cinnamon sticks in each glass.

Tips and Tricks

• Don’t boil the cider, gentle heat keeps the flavors balanced and prevents bitterness.

• Use whole spices rather than ground to keep the cider clear.

• Make it ahead: simmer, strain and reheat gently before serving.

• For gatherings: keep the cider warm in a slow cooker set to “low.”

Storage Tips

• Store leftover cider in an airtight jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheat it gently on the stove before serving; avoid boiling your apple mocktail.

• You can freeze the cider in portions and thaw as needed for quick holiday drinks.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and heat on “low” for 2–3 hours. Keep it nice and warm for serving.

Can I serve this apple juice mocktail cold?

Yup. You can chill the apple mocktail after straining and serve it over ice for a refreshing take.

Can I make it sugar free?

Yes. Skip the maple syrup or honey, or use a few drops of stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead.

Can I double or triple the apple mocktail recipe?

Definitely, this recipe scales beautifully; just use a larger pot or slow cooker.

What’s the difference between apple cider and apple juice?

Apple cider is usually unfiltered and has a more robust, spiced flavor, while apple juice is sweeter and clearer. Either works for this recipe.