Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Vanilla Apple Cider Mocktail

Cozy Vanilla Apple Cider Mocktail – A Fall-Inspired Twist on a Classic Bourbon Cocktail

  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 12 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Description

Vanilla Apple Cider Mocktail is a cozy, non-alcoholic drink that combines the crisp sweetness of apple cider with creamy vanilla and warm spices. This fall-inspired mocktail captures all the richness of a bourbon cider cocktail — without the alcohol — making it perfect for festive gatherings, cozy nights in, or Thanksgiving brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup apple cider (unfiltered preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon apple butter
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar or maple syrup
  • ½ tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
  • Ice cubes (for chilled version)
  • Cinnamon stick or apple slice (for garnish)
  • Optional Add-Ins: Splash of sparkling water, orange zest, star anise, or nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Warm the Base: In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, apple butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Heat Gently: Warm over medium-low heat for 5–7 minutes until steamy and fragrant. Do not boil.
  3. Add Freshness: Stir in lemon juice for a touch of brightness before serving.
  4. Serve Your Way: For a warm drink, pour into mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick. For a chilled version, strain and serve over ice with sparkling water.
  5. Enjoy: Sip and savor the cozy, spiced aroma of fall in every glass.

Notes

  • Use real apple cider: It adds authentic, orchard-fresh flavor.
  • Don’t skip vanilla: It gives that bourbon-like warmth.
  • Apple butter adds depth: Rich texture and spice for true fall comfort.
  • Adjust sweetness: Taste before adding extra sugar or syrup.
  • Make ahead: Store up to 3 days and reheat gently before serving.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Heated or Chilled
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 glass
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 10mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Vanilla Apple Cider Mocktail, Fall Mocktail, Non-Alcoholic Apple Cider, Vanilla Bourbon Cider Cocktail, Cozy Fall Drinks, Apple Cider Recipe, Thanksgiving Mocktail, Warm Apple Drink, Spiced Apple Beverage, Autumn Cocktails

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://lyndyskitchen.com/vanilla-apple-cider-mocktail/