Easy Apple Mocktail (Refined Sugar Free)

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The easiest apple mocktail for a quick fall drink. These refined sugar free mocktails are ready in five minutes and bursting with apple flavor!

An apple mocktail sitting on a countertop with a box of apples.

If you need a last-minute drink to whip out at your holiday gatherings, this mocktail is for you. This easy apple mocktail is full of fall flavors and only requires a few simple ingredients.

Perfect to make as an alcohol-free option. Or serve with optional vodka/tequila on the side for those who want it!

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Why this recipe works
Why I love these Apple Mocktails
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
How to make Apple Mocktails
FAQ & Expert Tips
Recipe Prayer
More easy fall drinks
Tried this recipe?
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An apple mocktail in a glass, with cinnamon sticks and apples.

Why this recipe works

The key to a mocktail that tastes like a cocktail is to replace the bite or acidity that alcohol adds to a cocktail.

I use kombucha, which is naturally a bit sour, to mimic the taste of alcohol. Plus, an apple flavored kombucha leans into all the fall vibes!

An Apple Mocktail with three apple slices.

Why I love these Apple Mocktails

No Alcohol - of course! It's a mocktail, so there's no alcohol at all. If you want to add alcohol I give the quantity and type of liquor below
Dietary needs - besides being alcohol-free this mocktail is plant-based, oil-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free
It's naturally sweetened! - No honey or maple syrup in this recipe. Apple cider and apple kombucha are sweetened from just fruits!
Quick and easy - it only takes 5 minutes to whip up
Great for kids and adults - the kids can have fun feeling like an adult and the adults can enjoy a cocktail without the effects of alcohol

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Apple Cider: most apple ciders are just made from apples - double check to make sure the brand you buy doesn't have added sugar
Lime Juice: fresh lime juice is best, especially for cocktails
Cinnamon & Nutmeg: a pinch of each of these spices really creates that fall flavor
Kombucha: I used GT's apple kombucha in this recipe to add to the overall apple flavor, but a regular ginger flavored kombucha will work too. See the FAQ section for other substitutions.

How to make Apple Mocktails

Step 1. In a glass whisk the apple cider, lime juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Apple Mocktail Step 1 - mix the cider, lime juice, and spices.

Step 2. Pour in the kombucha.

Apple Mocktail Step 2 - add the kombucha.

Step 3. Garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks if desired. Enjoy!

Apple Mocktail Step 3 - garnish with apples and cinnamon sticks.

FAQ & Expert Tips

How can I add alcohol?

Decrease the amount of kombucha from 4 ounces to 3 ounces and add a shot of vodka or tequila.

What can I sub for kombucha?

I LOVE using kombucha in mocktails because it has a natural bite, which mimics the bite of alcohol. But if you don't like kombucha or don't have any you could use club soda, seltzer water, or ginger beer.

An Apple Mocktail garnished with three apple slices.

Recipe Prayer

Thank you God for this mocktail. Thank you for alcohol-free drinks that we can enjoy. Amen.

More easy fall drinks

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