The Easy Apple Mocktail is a crisp, refreshing non-alcoholic drink perfect for any occasion—from casual get-togethers to holiday parties. With the natural sweetness of apple juice, the fizz of sparkling water, and a hint of spice or citrus, this mocktail is flavorful, family-friendly, and incredibly easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This mocktail is light, festive, and requires just a handful of ingredients. It’s a great alcohol-free option that still feels celebratory and sophisticated. You can easily customize it with seasonal spices or fresh fruits to suit your tastes or the time of year. Best of all, it comes together in minutes with no special equipment required.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Apple juice (preferably unsweetened)
- Sparkling water or club soda
- Lemon or lime juice
- Maple syrup or honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- Ice cubes
- Apple slices, cinnamon sticks, or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Fill glasses: Add ice cubes to serving glasses.
- Mix the base: In a pitcher or shaker, combine apple juice and a splash of lemon or lime juice. Add maple syrup or honey if desired for extra sweetness. Stir or shake well.
- Add fizz: Pour the apple mixture into the glasses until about 2/3 full, then top off with sparkling water. Stir gently.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with apple slices, a cinnamon stick, or a sprig of mint if desired. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2–3 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Spiced apple mocktail: Add a dash of ground cinnamon or simmer apple juice with a cinnamon stick before chilling.
- Citrus apple fizz: Add orange juice or grapefruit juice for a more tangy flavor.
- Ginger apple: Mix in a splash of ginger beer instead of sparkling water.
- Herbal twist: Add fresh rosemary or thyme for a more aromatic profile.
- Frozen version: Blend ingredients with ice for a slushy-style drink.
Storage/reheating
This mocktail is best served fresh.
If preparing in advance, mix the apple juice and citrus juice ahead of time and store in the refrigerator.
Add the sparkling water and ice just before serving to preserve the fizz.
Do not freeze or reheat.
FAQs
Can I use apple cider instead of apple juice?
Yes, apple cider works beautifully and adds a deeper, spiced flavor.
What kind of sparkling water should I use?
Plain, lemon, or lime-flavored sparkling water works best for a clean, crisp finish.
Can I make a large batch for a party?
Absolutely. Just multiply the ingredients and combine everything (except the sparkling water) in advance. Add the bubbles right before serving.
Is this drink kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s perfect for children and adults alike—fun, festive, and alcohol-free.
Can I make it sugar-free?
Use unsweetened apple juice and skip the added sweetener for a naturally sugar-free version.
How do I make it look more festive?
Use fancy glasses, colorful straws, and garnishes like cinnamon sticks, apple wedges, or pomegranate seeds.
Can I add herbs to the mocktail?
Yes, herbs like mint, rosemary, or thyme add freshness and a more complex flavor.
Is it okay to use carbonated apple juice?
Yes, just skip the sparkling water if you’re using a fizzy apple juice.
What if I don’t have fresh lemon or lime?
You can use bottled lemon or lime juice in a pinch, though fresh is recommended for best flavor.
Can I prepare this mocktail the night before?
You can mix everything except the sparkling water and ice the night before. Add those just before serving.
Conclusion
The Easy Apple Mocktail is a delightful drink that’s simple to make yet elegant enough for any celebration. Its crisp apple flavor, effervescence, and versatility make it a go-to non-alcoholic option for all ages. Whether you’re hosting guests or just want something refreshing to sip, this mocktail is a refreshing and fuss-free favorite.
Print
Easy Apple Mocktail
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Easy Apple Mocktail is a refreshing non-alcoholic drink featuring crisp apple juice, sparkling water, and a hint of citrus, perfect for any celebration or casual gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple juice (chilled)
- 1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda (chilled)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
- Ice cubes
- Apple slices and mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- In a glass or pitcher, combine apple juice, lemon juice, and maple syrup (if using). Stir well.
- Fill a serving glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the apple mixture over the ice, then top with sparkling water.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with apple slices and mint leaves. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh-pressed apple juice for the best flavor.
- Add a dash of ground cinnamon or a cinnamon stick for a festive twist.
- Can be made in a large batch for parties.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg