15 Apple Cider Mocktails Perfect for Fall Gatherings

As autumn's golden light filters through falling leaves, you'll find yourself craving the cozy comfort of apple cider mocktails. These 15 alcohol-free creations transform simple apple cider into sophisticated beverages that'll impress your guests at any fall gathering. From the warming embrace of the Spiced Maple Apple Cider Fizz to the whimsical Caramel Apple Cider Float, each recipe offers a unique twist on this seasonal favorite. Let's explore how you can elevate your entertaining game with these festive concoctions.

Spiced Maple Apple Cider Fizz

A delightful non-alcoholic twist on classic apple cider, the Spiced Maple Apple Cider Fizz combines the warmth of traditional fall spices with the sophisticated effervescence of club soda. This mocktail delivers a perfect balance between sweet and spicy notes, making it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or cozy autumn evenings.

The magic of this beverage lies in its layered flavors – the natural sweetness of apple cider harmonizes with rich maple syrup, while cinnamon and nutmeg add warming depth. The addition of fresh lemon juice brings brightness, and the club soda transforms this seasonal favorite into an elegant, sparkling drink that's both refreshing and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup club soda
• Ice cubes
• Apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish

In a cocktail shaker or mason jar, combine the apple cider, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Shake vigorously until the spices are well incorporated and the mixture is chilled. Add the fresh lemon juice and give it another quick shake. Fill two glasses with ice cubes and strain the spiced cider mixture evenly between them.

Top each glass with club soda, gently stirring to combine while maintaining the carbonation. Garnish with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks before serving.

For best results, use fresh, unfiltered apple cider rather than apple juice, as it provides a richer flavor profile. The mocktail can be prepared up to the club soda step in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours – just add the carbonated element right before serving to maintain its fizzy character. Adjust the maple syrup quantity to taste, as the natural sweetness of apple cider can vary significantly between brands.

Caramel Apple Cider Float

Caramel Apple Cider Float is a delightful non-alcoholic beverage that combines the warmth of spiced apple cider with the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream and the indulgent sweetness of caramel. This mocktail offers a perfect balance of temperatures and textures, making it an ideal treat for autumn gatherings or holiday celebrations.

This elevated twist on a classic float delivers the nostalgic flavors of caramel apples in a sophisticated presentation. The hot apple cider slowly melts the ice cream, creating a creamy, frothy mixture while the caramel sauce adds depth and complexity to each sip.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups spiced apple cider
• 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
• 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Whipped cream
• Additional caramel sauce for drizzling
• Apple slice for garnish
• Ground cinnamon for garnish

Heat the apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat until it's hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally. While the cider heats, drizzle caramel sauce around the inside of a tall glass, creating a decorative pattern. Place two scoops of vanilla ice cream in the glass. Slowly pour the hot apple cider over the ice cream, leaving some room at the top for whipped cream.

Top the float with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of additional caramel sauce, and a light dusting of ground cinnamon. Garnish with a fresh apple slice. Serve immediately with a long spoon and a straw.

For best results, ensure the apple cider is very hot when poured over the ice cream to create the perfect melting effect. You can prepare the glasses with caramel sauce in advance and chill them to help the caramel stick better to the sides. If serving to guests, consider having the glasses pre-prepared with caramel and ice cream, then add the hot cider just before serving to maintain the ideal temperature contrast.

Harvest Moon Cider Punch

This festive non-alcoholic punch combines the warmth of apple cider with bright citrus notes and seasonal spices, creating a sophisticated mocktail perfect for autumn gatherings. The deep amber color and floating fruit garnishes evoke the appearance of a harvest moon rising over an orchard, making it as visually appealing as it's delicious.

The recipe can be easily scaled up for larger parties and prepared in advance, allowing hosts to spend more time with their guests. The combination of sparkling water with still cider creates a refreshing effervescence that elevates this drink beyond simple apple cider.

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cups orange juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 cup cranberry juice
• 2 cups sparkling water
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole star anise
• 2 oranges, thinly sliced
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup honey
• Ice cubes
• Fresh cranberries for garnish

In a large punch bowl or pitcher, combine the apple cider, orange juice, and cranberry juice. Add the honey and stir until completely dissolved. Drop in the cinnamon sticks and star anise, then add half of the orange and apple slices. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

Just before serving, add the sparkling water and remaining fruit slices. Fill the punch bowl with ice and float fresh cranberries on top. Serve in glasses garnished with additional fruit slices if desired.

For best results, use fresh-pressed apple cider rather than filtered apple juice, as it provides a richer flavor and better mouthfeel. The punch can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance without the sparkling water and fruit garnishes – simply add these elements just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and fizz.

Cinnamon-Vanilla Apple Sparkler

This refreshing Cinnamon-Vanilla Apple Sparkler offers a sophisticated non-alcoholic alternative to traditional cocktails, combining the warmth of seasonal spices with the crisp sweetness of apple cider. The addition of vanilla adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile, while the sparkling water provides a delightful effervescence that makes this mocktail feel special and celebratory.

Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or any occasion where you want to serve something more elevated than plain cider, this mocktail can be prepared individually or scaled up to serve a crowd. The cinnamon-vanilla syrup can be made ahead of time, making it convenient for entertaining.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups apple cider
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
• 1/4 cup honey
• Sparkling water
• Fresh apple slices for garnish
• Ground cinnamon for garnish
• Ice cubes

Begin by preparing the cinnamon-vanilla syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, split vanilla bean, and honey. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let it steep for 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. Strain the mixture and discard the cinnamon sticks and vanilla bean. This syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

To assemble the mocktail, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the cinnamon-vanilla apple cider mixture until the glass is two-thirds full. Top with sparkling water to taste, gently stirring to combine. Garnish with fresh apple slices and a light dusting of ground cinnamon.

For the best results, ensure all components are well-chilled before mixing. The ratio of cider mixture to sparkling water can be adjusted to taste – start with a 2:1 ratio of cider to sparkling water and adjust from there. If preparing for a party, keep the cider mixture and sparkling water separate until serving time to maintain the carbonation.

Cranberry Apple Cider Spritzer

This refreshing and festive Cranberry Apple Cider Spritzer combines the sweet warmth of apple cider with the tart brightness of cranberry juice, creating a sophisticated non-alcoholic beverage perfect for any occasion. The addition of sparkling water adds an elegant effervescence that elevates this mocktail beyond ordinary juice combinations.

The beautiful ruby-red hue makes it an especially attractive choice for holiday gatherings, while the balanced flavors appeal to both adults and children alike. This spritzer can be prepared individually or scaled up to serve larger groups, making it an ideal choice for parties, brunches, or any celebration where you want to offer a special non-alcoholic option.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup cranberry juice (100% juice, unsweetened)
• 1/2 cup sparkling water
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Ice cubes
• Apple slices for garnish
• Fresh cranberries for garnish
• Fresh rosemary sprig (optional)

Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, then pour in the apple cider and cranberry juice. Add the fresh lemon juice and stir gently to combine. Top with sparkling water, letting it cascade slowly down the side of the glass to preserve the carbonation. Garnish with fresh apple slices, a few floating cranberries, and a sprig of rosemary if desired.

For the best results, chill both the apple cider and cranberry juice beforehand, as this will help maintain the carbonation of the sparkling water longer. You can adjust the ratios of cider to cranberry juice based on your preference for sweetness, and consider making a larger batch in a pitcher – just add the sparkling water to individual glasses at serving time to maintain the fizz.

Apple Cider Hot Toddy Mocktail

A warm and comforting apple cider hot toddy mocktail brings all the soothing qualities of a traditional hot toddy without the alcohol. This alcohol-free version combines the natural sweetness of apple cider with warming spices, fresh lemon, and honey to create a drink that's perfect for cold winter evenings or when feeling under the weather.

The key to making this mocktail special lies in the balance between the tart citrus notes, sweet honey, and aromatic spices. While traditional hot toddies use whiskey as their base, this version relies on high-quality apple cider and a careful blend of complementary flavors to achieve a sophisticated and satisfying drink.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz apple cider
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 whole cloves
• 1 star anise pod
• 1 thin lemon wheel for garnish
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Hot water (optional, for diluting)

In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider, honey, and spices over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to ensure the honey dissolves completely. Reduce heat to low and let the spices steep for 5-7 minutes to infuse their flavors. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice.

Strain the hot mixture into a mug, discarding the whole spices. Garnish with a fresh lemon wheel, a new cinnamon stick if desired, and a light dusting of ground nutmeg. If the drink is too strong, add a splash of hot water to achieve your preferred strength.

For the best results, use fresh, unfiltered apple cider rather than apple juice, as it provides a richer flavor and better mouthfeel. The spices can be adjusted to taste, and you can add other warming spices like ginger or cardamom for variation. Store any leftover mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating gently when ready to serve.

Butterscotch Apple Cider Dream

A delightful non-alcoholic twist on classic apple cider, the Butterscotch Apple Cider Dream combines warm autumn flavors with rich, creamy butterscotch notes. This mocktail delivers the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it an ideal beverage for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

The drink's foundation is built on fresh apple cider, enhanced with butterscotch syrup and a touch of vanilla extract. Topped with whipped cream and a caramel drizzle, this mocktail creates a visually stunning presentation that rivals any craft cocktail while remaining family-friendly.

• 2 cups fresh apple cider
• 3 tablespoons butterscotch syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup whipped cream
• 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Ice cubes
• Apple slices for garnish
• Cinnamon sticks for garnish

In a cocktail shaker, combine the apple cider, butterscotch syrup, and vanilla extract with a handful of ice cubes. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well combined and chilled. Strain the mixture into two serving glasses filled with fresh ice cubes.

Top each glass with a generous dollop of whipped cream and drizzle with caramel sauce. Dust the whipped cream lightly with ground cinnamon. Garnish with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks before serving immediately.

For the best results, chill the apple cider beforehand and use fresh whipped cream rather than the store-bought variety. The butterscotch syrup can be adjusted to taste, and warming the caramel sauce slightly before drizzling will create more attractive presentation. Store any leftover mixture in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, though fresh preparation is recommended for optimal taste and appearance.

Ginger-Honey Apple Refresher

A refreshing twist on classic apple cider, this non-alcoholic mocktail combines the warmth of ginger with the natural sweetness of honey and fresh apple cider. The combination creates a sophisticated beverage that's perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or any occasion where you want to serve something special without alcohol.

This mocktail strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy, with the ginger providing a gentle heat that complements the smooth honey notes. The drink can be served either chilled or warm, making it versatile enough to enjoy year-round and suitable for both indoor and outdoor entertaining.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh apple cider
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup sparkling water
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 apple, thinly sliced for garnish
• Ice cubes
• Fresh thyme sprigs (optional garnish)

In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, honey, and sliced ginger. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it steep for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and strain the mixture to remove the ginger pieces, then allow it to cool completely.

Once cooled, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the apple-ginger mixture until they're about 3/4 full. Top each glass with sparkling water and stir gently to combine. Garnish with apple slices, a cinnamon stick, and a sprig of fresh thyme if desired.

For the best results, use fresh apple cider rather than apple juice, as it provides a richer flavor profile. The ginger-honey mixture can be prepared up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, grate the ginger instead of slicing it, or increase the steeping time to 20-25 minutes.

Mulled Apple Cider Sunrise

Mulled Apple Cider Sunrise combines the warmth of traditional mulled cider with the vibrant presentation of a sunrise cocktail, creating a stunning alcohol-free beverage perfect for fall and winter gatherings. The layered effect is achieved through careful attention to density, while the warming spices provide a comforting seasonal touch.

This mocktail brings together fresh apple cider, aromatic mulling spices, and a splash of grenadine to create a drink that's both visually impressive and delightfully flavorful. The combination of hot and cold elements makes it unique among mocktails, while the sunrise effect adds an element of sophistication that elevates it beyond ordinary apple cider.

• 2 cups fresh apple cider
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 star anise
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 tablespoons grenadine
• Ice cubes
• Orange slices for garnish
• Fresh cranberries for garnish

Begin by preparing the mulled cider base. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and orange slices. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it steep for 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and strain out the spices and orange slices, allowing the cider to cool completely.

To assemble the mocktail, fill tall glasses with ice cubes. Slowly pour the cooled mulled cider into each glass, leaving about half an inch of space at the bottom. Carefully pour the grenadine down the side of the glass, allowing it to sink to the bottom naturally, creating the sunrise effect. Garnish with fresh orange slices and cranberries.

For the best results, ensure the mulled cider is completely cooled before assembling the drink, as warm liquid will melt the ice too quickly and disrupt the layered effect. The grenadine should be added last and very slowly to achieve the perfect sunrise gradient. Store any leftover mulled cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Apple Cider Cotton Candy Fusion

Combining the nostalgic sweetness of cotton candy with the warm, spiced notes of apple cider creates a whimsical mocktail that's perfect for fall gatherings and festive celebrations. This innovative drink transforms traditional apple cider into a cloud-like experience, where cotton candy dissolves dramatically into the beverage, creating both a visual spectacle and a unique flavor profile.

The key to this mocktail's success lies in the temperature balance – the apple cider needs to be chilled enough to maintain the cotton candy's structure initially, but warm enough to create the perfect melting effect when served. The combination of fresh apple cider, rather than processed juice, along with premium cotton candy, ensures the best possible flavor fusion.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh apple cider
• 1 cup sparkling water
• 2 large cotton candy puffs (vanilla or apple flavored)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 thin apple slices for garnish
• Ice cubes
• Cinnamon sticks for garnish

In a large pitcher, combine the chilled apple cider with sparkling water, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir gently to incorporate all the spices without losing the carbonation. Fill two tall glasses with ice cubes, leaving enough room at the top for the cotton candy. Pour the spiced cider mixture into each glass, filling about three-quarters full.

Just before serving, place a large puff of cotton candy on top of each glass, allowing it to rest partially inside the rim. Garnish with an apple slice and cinnamon stick on the side of the glass. The cotton candy will slowly dissolve into the drink, creating a magical effect and adding extra sweetness to the mocktail.

For best results, serve this mocktail immediately after preparation, as the cotton candy will begin dissolving upon contact with the liquid. Store any remaining apple cider mixture separately from the cotton candy, and assemble drinks individually as needed. The spice quantities can be adjusted to taste, and different cotton candy flavors can be experimented with to create unique variations of this festive drink.

Pumpkin Spice Apple Cider Latte

A cozy autumn beverage that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the sweet tartness of apple cider, this non-alcoholic latte is perfect for those crisp fall mornings or chilly evenings. The marriage of these classic fall flavors creates a comforting drink that can be enjoyed by everyone, from kids to adults who prefer to skip the caffeine.

This mocktail version of the popular fall drink eliminates coffee and alcohol while maintaining all the seasonal charm. The natural sweetness of apple cider paired with pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a rich, creamy texture that rivals any coffee shop favorite, making it an excellent choice for entertaining or simply treating yourself to something special.

In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider and pumpkin puree over medium heat, whisking until well blended. Add milk, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and heated through, but not boiling. Remove from heat once the mixture is steaming and completely combined.

Pour the hot mixture into mugs, top with a generous dollop of whipped cream, and sprinkle with ground cinnamon. If desired, drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness. Serve immediately while hot.

For the best results, use fresh, high-quality apple cider rather than apple juice, as it provides a richer flavor profile. The drink can be made ahead and reheated, though the whipped cream should be added just before serving. For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, and use coconut whipped cream for topping.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups apple cider
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whipped cream for topping
• Ground cinnamon for garnish
• Caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)

Apple Cider Moscow Mule Mocktail

An Apple Cider Moscow Mule Mocktail is a refreshing non-alcoholic twist on the classic cocktail that traditionally combines vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. This alcohol-free version maintains the signature spicy kick from ginger beer while incorporating the seasonal warmth of apple cider.

Perfect for fall gatherings or any time you want a sophisticated mocktail, this drink combines the crisp sweetness of apple cider with the zesty bite of ginger beer and fresh lime juice. Served in a traditional copper mug, it provides the same elegant presentation as its alcoholic counterpart while being suitable for all guests.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz apple cider
• 4 oz ginger beer
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• Apple slices for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Ice cubes
• Cinnamon stick (optional)

Fill a copper mug or tall glass with ice cubes. Pour in the apple cider and fresh lime juice, then slowly add the ginger beer to maintain carbonation. Gently stir the mixture with a bar spoon to combine all ingredients without losing the fizz. Garnish with fresh apple slices, mint leaves, and optionally, a cinnamon stick.

For the best results, ensure all ingredients are well-chilled before mixing. The ginger beer should be added last to preserve its carbonation, and the drink should be served immediately. If copper mugs aren't available, any tall glass will work, though copper mugs help maintain the drink's optimal temperature and add to the traditional presentation.

Salted Caramel Apple Cider Shake

Salted caramel and apple cider create a perfect autumn pairing in this indulgent non-alcoholic shake. The rich, buttery notes of caramel complement the tartness of apple cider, while a touch of salt enhances both flavors and adds complexity to this creamy beverage.

This shake transforms traditional apple cider into a dessert-worthy treat that can be enjoyed any time of day. The combination of vanilla ice cream and apple cider creates a smooth, creamy base, while the salted caramel adds a sophisticated touch that elevates this mocktail beyond a simple milkshake.

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1 cup apple cider
• 3 tablespoons salted caramel sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Whipped cream for garnish
• Additional caramel sauce for drizzling
• Pinch of sea salt for garnish

Chill a tall glass in the freezer for about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, in a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, apple cider, salted caramel sauce, sea salt, and ground cinnamon. Blend until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated. If the mixture is too thick, add more apple cider one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Remove the chilled glass from the freezer and drizzle additional caramel sauce along the inside walls. Pour the blended shake mixture into the glass, top with whipped cream, and finish with a final drizzle of caramel sauce and a small pinch of sea salt.

For best results, use high-quality vanilla ice cream and fresh, unfiltered apple cider. The shake can be made thicker or thinner by adjusting the ratio of ice cream to cider. For a more pronounced caramel flavor, consider warming the caramel sauce slightly before adding it to the blender, which will help it incorporate more evenly throughout the shake.

Autumn Orchard Fizz

This refreshing and festive non-alcoholic mocktail captures the essence of fall with its perfect blend of apple cider, warming spices, and effervescent finish. The Autumn Orchard Fizz combines the natural sweetness of fresh apple cider with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a sophisticated drink that's perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

The beauty of this mocktail lies in its versatility and visual appeal. Garnished with fresh apple slices and a cinnamon stick, it's an Instagram-worthy beverage that looks as impressive as it tastes. The addition of sparkling water provides a delightful fizz that elevates this drink beyond ordinary apple cider.

• 1 cup fresh apple cider
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup sparkling water
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Ice cubes
• Apple slices for garnish
• Cinnamon stick for garnish

In a cocktail shaker, combine the apple cider, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and honey. Add ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to ensure all ingredients are well combined and chilled. Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with fresh ice cubes.

Top the drink with sparkling water, gently stirring once to combine. Garnish with fresh apple slices and a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately while the drink is well-chilled and the sparkling water is still effervescent.

For the best results, use fresh, high-quality apple cider rather than apple juice, as it provides a richer flavor profile. The mocktail can be prepared in advance up to the point of adding the sparkling water – add this just before serving to maintain the fizz. If you prefer a sweeter drink, adjust the honey quantity to taste, and consider rimming the glass with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for an extra special touch.

Chai-Spiced Apple Cider Cooler

A refreshing twist on traditional apple cider, this Chai-Spiced Apple Cider Cooler combines the warmth of chai spices with the crisp sweetness of apple cider. The drink offers a sophisticated non-alcoholic alternative that's perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday parties, or any occasion that calls for a special beverage.

This mocktail builds upon the familiar comfort of apple cider by introducing aromatic chai spices, creating a complex flavor profile that's both warming and cooling. The addition of sparkling water provides a pleasant effervescence, while the honey adds depth and helps balance the spices.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups apple cider
• 2 chai tea bags
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 star anise pods
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 cup sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Apple slices for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Begin by heating the apple cider in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chai tea bags, cinnamon stick, star anise, and cloves. Bring to a gentle simmer and let steep for 10 minutes. Remove from heat, discard the tea bags and stir in the honey until dissolved. Strain the mixture and refrigerate until completely chilled, about 2 hours or overnight.

To serve, fill tall glasses with ice cubes. Pour the chilled spiced cider mixture until glasses are 2/3 full, then top with sparkling water. Gently stir to combine. Garnish with fresh apple slices and mint leaves.

For best results, prepare the spiced cider base at least 24 hours in advance to allow the flavors to fully develop. The base can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When serving, add the sparkling water just before presenting to maintain maximum effervescence. If you prefer a sweeter drink, adjust the honey quantity to taste, or offer simple syrup on the side for guests to customize their drinks.