Cozy Nights Call for a Perfect Apple Cider Mocktail

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Nothing welcomes autumn quite like the sweet aroma of spiced apples filling your kitchen. For a festive non-alcoholic treat, try this “Warm Autumn Spice Apple Cider Mocktail,” guaranteed to make you feel all the cozy vibes as the leaves turn golden.

Image 1
Ideogram

Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh apple cider (preferably unfiltered)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 2 whole cloves (or a pinch of ground cloves)
  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup, plus more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional for extra spice)
  • Splash of lemon juice (for brightness)
  • Apple slices and cinnamon sticks (garnish)
Ideogram

Instructions

Start by warming the apple cider in a small saucepan set over medium-low heat. Stir in the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and ginger if you’re craving a little extra zip. Let the mixture gently simmer, filling your kitchen with an irresistible orchard-fresh scent. This takes about 10 to 15 minutes—just enough time to let the flavors mingle without boiling them away.

Image 3
Ideogram

Once the cider is fragrant, whisk in the maple syrup. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice levels to suit your palate—you can add more syrup if you like it sweeter, or another pinch of ground cloves for a fierier kick. Remove the pan from heat and stir in a splash of lemon juice for a bright, tangy finish. Strain out the cinnamon sticks and cloves, then ladle the glorious mocktail into your favorite warm mugs or heatproof glasses. Garnish each serving with fresh apple slices and a cinnamon stick for extra flair.

Sip from a cozy spot on your couch, and you’ll feel like you’re wrapped in a blanket of spiced fall comfort. This mocktail is perfect for anyone who wants a toasty, alcohol-free beverage that embodies the season. If you’re cutting back on sweetness, reduce or skip the maple syrup, or use a sugar-free alternative. You can also experiment by adding a pinch of nutmeg or substituting honey for a different taste. Whether you’re hosting friends for a harvest party or curling up with a good book, this Warm Autumn Spice Apple Cider Mocktail will warm you from the inside out.

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.