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Fast + Easy Apple Cider “Margarita” Mocktail — Fall Friendly & Alcohol-Free

Celebrate the crisp autumn air with a drink that captures the warmth of fall flavor without any alcohol. This apple cider mocktail combines the tang of citrus, the sweetness of apple cider, and a hint of spice for a refreshing, festive sip. Inspired by the original Apple Cider Margarita, this version is perfect for family gatherings, Thanksgiving, or any cozy evening when you want something special and inclusive.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
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Ingredients
  

🍎 Liquids & Base
  • 4 oz 100% apple cider chilled
  • oz fresh lime juice about ½ lime
  • 1 tbsp simple syrup or substitute maple syrup/honey
🍂 Rim & Garnish
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar
  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: Cinnamon stick and apple slice for garnish
❄️ Serve-Chill
  • Ice cubes
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Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker or large mason jar with lid
  • Measuring jigger or tablespoon measure
  • Citrus juicer (or fresh lime)
  • Spoon or stirrer
  • Shallow plate (for rim)
  • Glass (rocks or margarita style)
  • Ice cube tray

Method
 

Step 1: Rim the Glass
  1. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass. On a shallow plate combine the sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Dip the rim of the glass into this mixture so it adheres.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
  1. In a shaker or jar, pour in the apple cider, lime juice, and simple syrup. Add a handful of ice.
Step 3: Shake & Chill
  1. Close the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds to chill the mixture and slightly dilute for balance.
Step 4: Pour & Serve
  1. Fill the rimmed glass with fresh ice. Strain and pour the mixture into the glass.
Step 5: Garnish & Enjoy
  1. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an apple slice. Serve immediately while cold and bubbly.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: You can mix the apple-cider/lime/simple syrup base ahead and store in a jar for up to 1 day; add fresh ice and rim just before serving.
Freezer: Not recommended for the full drink because the rim and garnish lose quality — freeze apple-cider cubes separately if desired.
Reheating: This is a cold drink; serve chilled or over ice.
🥄 Variations
Sparkling Version: Add a splash of sparkling water or ginger ale for fizz.
Maple Rim: Substitute the sugar in the rim with maple sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cran-Apple Twist: Replace half the apple cider with cranberry juice for tartness and color.
Warm Fall Version: Heat the apple cider with cinnamon and serve warm, omit the lime and rim.
Spiced Kick: Add a dash of ground nutmeg or a small piece of fresh ginger to the shaker.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use bottled apple juice instead of cider?
Yes — but 100% apple cider has a better autumn flavor (less filtered) and is preferred.
Julie Blanner
+1
Is the lime necessary?
The lime provides brightness and balances sweetness; you could reduce it but the drink may taste flat.
What if I don’t have simple syrup?
Use maple syrup or honey — just stir well to dissolve.
Can I make this for a crowd?
Yes — multiply the ingredients and serve in a pitcher; rim each glass individually.
Can kids drink this?
Absolutely — it’s alcohol-free and full of fall fun.
How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the simple syrup or omit entirely and add more lime juice.
Can I top it with something fizzy?
Yes — add sparkling water or soda just before serving to maintain bubbles.
Is the cinnamon rim important?
It adds flavor and a festive look, but you can skip if desired.
Can I blend it to make frozen?
Yes — blend the base with crushed ice for a slush version, though the rim effect will differ.
How far ahead can I prep?
Mix the base up to 24 hours ahead. Rim glasses and add ice right before serving for best results.
🏁 Conclusion
This Fast + Easy Apple Cider “Margarita” Mocktail brings all the charm of fall — crisp apple cider, zesty lime, and a sweet-spiced rim — without any alcohol. It’s perfect for raising a glass to family, friends, and cozy seasonal gatherings.
Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, a harvest dinner, or simply a chilly evening by the fire, this drink feels elevated and festive but remains inclusive for everyone. Ready to mix, serve, and sip your way into fall?