The Caramel Apple Mocktail is a sweet and refreshing drink that’s perfect for any time you want a little treat without the booze. It combines crisp apple flavors with smooth caramel, giving you a fun, fizzy drink that’s both tangy and sweet. The caramel drizzle adds a lovely touch that feels like a cozy hug in a glass.
I love making this mocktail when friends come over, especially in the fall when apples are everywhere. The best part is how easy it is to put together—just a mix of apple juice, a splash of sparkling water, and a drizzle of caramel syrup. Sometimes I rim the glass with a little cinnamon sugar for a special twist that everyone always asks about.
This drink is great for family gatherings or just a quiet night in when you want something a little special. I’ve found that it’s the kind of mocktail that both kids and adults enjoy without feeling like you’re missing out. Plus, it’s a nice change from plain juice or soda, with a little extra something that makes the moment feel festive.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Cider: This is the heart of the mocktail, giving it that fresh, tangy apple flavor. If you can’t find apple cider, pure unsweetened apple juice works fine. For something lighter, mix half apple juice with half pear juice.
Caramel Sauce: Adds the rich sweetness that makes this drink special. Store-bought caramel sauce works well, but homemade caramel can add a deeper flavor. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount or try a drizzle of maple syrup instead.
Sparkling Water or Club Soda: This gives the mocktail a nice fizz. Use any plain sparkling water or club soda. Flavored sparkling water like lemon or cinnamon can add a fun twist without extra sugar.
Lemon Juice: Just a bit to balance all the sweetness. Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled juice is okay in a pinch.
Cinnamon Sugar Rim: This adds both flavor and a pretty look. Mix equal parts cinnamon and sugar. You can swap sugar for a sugar substitute that measures like sugar if you want a lower-calorie option.
How Do You Get the Cinnamon Sugar Rim Just Right?
The cinnamon sugar rim really sets this mocktail apart. Here’s how to make it look great and stick well:
- First, pour a small amount of caramel sauce onto a plate and spread it thinly.
- On another plate, mix cinnamon and sugar in equal parts.
- Dip the rim of a clean glass into the caramel sauce, coating it evenly.
- Immediately dip the caramel-coated rim into the cinnamon sugar mix, gently shaking off any extra.
- Let the glass sit for a minute to let the coating set before filling it with the mocktail.
Tip: Use a spoon to help drip the caramel if it’s too thick to dip smoothly. This way, the rim stays neat and flavorful, giving each sip a little sweet spice burst.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing glass or pitcher – for stirring the apple cider and caramel sauce smoothly.
- Spoon – handy for drizzling caramel and mixing ingredients evenly.
- Rimming plate or small shallow dish – makes it easy to coat the glass rims with caramel and cinnamon sugar.
- Glasses (rocks or short tumblers) – perfect size for this cozy mocktail and show off the cinnamon sugar rim.
- Measuring spoons – to get the caramel sauce and lemon juice just right every time.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of ginger beer instead of sparkling water for a spicy kick that pairs well with apple and caramel.
- Swap apple cider with pear juice for a softer, mellow fruit flavor that still feels autumnal.
- Mix in a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice for extra seasonal warmth and depth.
- Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel for a dessert-style mocktail treat perfect for special occasions.
How to Make a Caramel Apple Mocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup apple cider (chilled)
- 1/2 cup sparkling water or club soda (chilled)
- 2 tbsp caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling or rimming)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Ice cubes
For Garnish and Rim:
- Apple slices (for garnish)
- Cinnamon sugar (for rimming the glasses)
- Ground cinnamon (optional, for garnish)
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Most of the time is spent assembling the drink and preparing the glasses.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glasses:
Use a spoon to coat the rim of each glass with caramel sauce. Then dip the caramel-coated rims into cinnamon sugar to create a tasty and decorative edge. Let the rims set for a moment.
2. Mix the Mocktail:
In a mixing glass or pitcher, combine the chilled apple cider, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce. Stir well until the caramel is fully mixed in and the flavors meld together.
3. Assemble the Drink:
Fill the prepared glasses with ice cubes. Pour the caramel apple mixture evenly into the glasses. Top each glass off with chilled sparkling water or club soda to add some fizz.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Add fresh apple slices into each glass for a crisp, colorful touch. If you like, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top for a bit of extra warmth and aroma. Serve right away and enjoy your sweet, spiced, refreshing caramel apple mocktail!
Can I Use Frozen Apple Cider for This Mocktail?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the apple cider completely in the fridge before using it. Shake or stir well before mixing to ensure the flavors are evenly blended.
How Can I Make This Mocktail Less Sweet?
Try reducing the caramel sauce to 1 tablespoon or using unsweetened apple juice instead of apple cider. You can also skip the caramel sugar rim or use less cinnamon sugar to cut down on sweetness.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Mocktail?
If you have leftovers, store the mixture (without sparkling water or ice) in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add sparkling water and ice just before serving to keep it fizzy and fresh.
Can I Prepare This Drink Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Mix the apple cider, lemon juice, and caramel sauce ahead of time and refrigerate. When ready to serve, rim the glasses and top each drink with sparkling water and ice for the best fizz.
