Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail (No Alcohol)

This Bourbon Apple Cider Mocktail is crisp, cozy, and layered with fall spices — like sipping a warm hug. It tastes like apple pie with a smoky twist, all without a drop of alcohol.
Tested twice: the best balance comes from using apple cider, black tea concentrate, and maple syrup with cinnamon.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

Swaps & Notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the base:
   Brew strong black tea (or caffeine-free alternative) and let it cool.
2. Mix it up:
   In a pitcher or shaker, combine apple cider, tea, lemon juice, maple syrup, and a cinnamon stick. Stir or shake well.
3. Serve:
   Fill two glasses with ice. Pour the cider mixture over. Garnish with apple slices and an optional cinnamon stick.
4. For a warm version:
   Heat the mix gently in a saucepan until steaming — not boiling — for a cozy fall drink.

Tested note: Lapsang Souchong tea gives a smoky, bourbon-like depth without alcohol.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Simmer 5 minutes with a cinnamon stick and clove for an extra-spiced version.
• Add vanilla extract (⅛ tsp) for warmth and round flavor.
• Make ahead: Mix the base (without ice) and chill for up to 3 days.
• Fall garnish idea: Add a star anise or dried apple chip for presentation.
• For kids: Skip lemon juice and serve warm with whipped cream on top.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for Thanksgiving or fall gatherings.
• Serve chilled in short glasses with apple slice garnish, or warm in mugs.
• Pair with roasted nuts, caramel popcorn, or pumpkin bread.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers up to 3 days in a sealed jar.
• Reheat: Warm on the stove or in the microwave until steamy (about 1–2 minutes).
• Do not boil: To preserve cider flavor and nutrients.

Food safety: Keep below 40°F (4°C) and discard if cloudy or fizzy.

FAQs

Q1: How do I make it taste like bourbon without alcohol?
Use strong smoky tea (like Lapsang Souchong) or a touch of liquid smoke and maple syrup to mimic the warmth and depth.

Q2: Can I make this sparkling?
Yes! Top each glass with club soda or sparkling apple juice for fizz.

Q3: Can I serve it warm?
Absolutely. Gently heat the mix with cinnamon and serve in mugs — like a cozy mulled cider.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 90; Carbs: 22g; Sugar: 19g; Protein: 0g; Fat: 0g

Bourbon Apple Cider Mocktail

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• Author: mixturarecipes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

A crisp and cozy mocktail layered with fall spices, tasting like apple pie with a smoky twist.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (240 ml) Fresh apple cider
• ½ cup (120 ml) Brewed strong black tea (like Lapsang Souchong or English breakfast), chilled
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) Lemon juice
• 1–2 tbsp Maple syrup (to taste)
• 1 Cinnamon stick
• 2–3 Apple slices (for garnish)
• Ice cubes (as needed)
• ½ tsp Apple cider vinegar or 2 drops liquid smoke (optional)

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Instructions

1. Brew strong black tea (or a caffeine-free alternative) and let it cool.
2. In a pitcher or shaker, combine apple cider, tea, lemon juice, maple syrup, and a cinnamon stick. Stir or shake well.
3. Fill two glasses with ice. Pour the cider mixture over. Garnish with apple slices and an optional cinnamon stick.
4. For a warm version, gently heat the mix in a saucepan until steaming — not boiling.

Notes

Simmer with a cinnamon stick and clove for an extra-spiced version. Add vanilla extract for warmth.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 19g
• Sodium: 10mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: mocktail, fall drink, apple cider, non-alcoholic beverage, Thanksgiving