Apple Cider and Champagne Is the Winning Combination Your Fall Happy Hour Needs
Photo: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Prop Styling: Karin Olsen; Food Styling: William Smith
TABLE OF CONTENTS
On This Page
Basic Ingredients for an Apple Cider Mimosa
Tips for Making Apple Cider Mimosas
How to Dress Up an Apple Cider Mimosa
Ingredients to Add to an Apple Cider Mimosa
How to Make a Mimosa Mocktail
When it comes to fall cocktails, cider is often the star of the show. A simple mix of apple cider and bourbon will warm you right up on a chilly night. But if you're having a dinner party, hosting a special brunch, or managing the Thanksgiving meal and want to get a little fancy with your apple cider cocktail, we've got just the thing: Meet the Apple Cider Mimosa.
To make an Apple Cider Mimosa, simply swap apple cider for the usual orange juice and pour the same ratio you would with a mimosa. The classic ratio for a mimosa is equal parts juice and Champagne. But why stop there? There are a few fun ways to dress up the Apple Cider Mimosa.
Basic Ingredients for an Apple Cider Mimosa
The apple cider you choose can have a significant effect on what kind of cocktail you produce. A filtered, light-colored cider will lend the most sparkle to your mimosas. Or, maybe you're looking to feature your favorite cider from a local farm, which may have a darker and cloudier appearance and a heartier flavor.
Second, choose your sparkling wine, whether it's a Champagne from France, a Prosecco from Italy, or a sparkling wine produced at a nearby vineyard. Choose a drier or sweeter vintage depending on your taste. Any of these options can make a great choice for mimosas.
Tips for Making Apple Cider Mimosas
Make sure the cider and sparkling wine are well-chilled before mixing.
Pour the cider into your champagne flutes in advance, then add the sparkling wine when you are ready to serve.
Give mimosas a gentle stir to preserve as much fizziness as possible.
How to Dress Up an Apple Cider Mimosa
For a festive presentation, dip your Champagne flute rims in water and then swirl the rim in a combination of cinnamon and sugar or even homemade caramel for a sweet touch of autumn flavor. Top each glass with an apple slice for even more pizzaz or throw in a cinnamon stick as garnish. Soak the apple slices in lemon juice or salt water beforehand to keep them from turning an unattractive brown as your party progresses.
Ingredients to Add to an Apple Cider Mimosa
Apple cider and champagne are delicious as a pair, but there are a few extra ingredients you can add that make these Apple Cider Mimosas something totally new and delicious. A splash of bourbon or whiskey will make your cocktail even cozier. Our Fizzy Cider Punch Recipe is a big-batch version that also includes brandy, which is perfect for a large holiday crowd. If you're not into dark liquor, try regular vodka or even caramel-flavored vodka for seasonal flavor. Use thin apple slices to serve as a garnish or soak in your concoction sangria-style.
How to Make a Mimosa Mocktail
If you're looking for a fun spritzer without the alcohol, forgo the champagne and substitute with lemon sparkling water. The lemon seltzer will add a pleasant brightness to your mimosas. If you prefer a sweeter option, you can use sparkling white grape juice instead. Whichever route you choose, offering an alcohol-free option to guests is guaranteed to please the entire crowd. Cheers, y'all!
