This platform is proudly ad-free! To keep it that way and support our efforts, some posts may contain affiliate links. These links come at no extra cost to you, but they help us grow and continue providing valuable content. Thank you for your understanding and support!
Crisp autumn air, the rustle of golden leaves, and the warm, spiced scent of the season filling your home. Fall is truly a time for gathering.
But what happens when you’re hosting a celebration and want a festive, elegant drink that everyone at your table can enjoy? You shouldn’t have to choose between flavor and inclusivity.
Enter this Sparkling Caramel Apple Cider Mocktail: the ultimate solution for your Thanksgiving feast, or any cozy get-together. This alcohol-free sangria captures every bit of autumn’s magic in a glass.
It blends sweet apple cider, decadent caramel, and fizzy bubbles with fresh fruit and warm spices. This mocktail is a celebration in a glass, bursting with the warm, comforting tastes of autumn mixing caramel, apples, and a hint of cinnamon.
Whether you’re hosting a mixed crowd of kids, pregnant guests, designated drivers, or those who simply prefer a sober sip, this drink ensures everyone feels included and festive. Let’s make a pitcher!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Caramel Apple Cider Sangria is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons:
- 100% Alcohol-Free: Perfect for guests of all ages and lifestyles, ensuring everyone can join the toast.
- Kid-Friendly: The sweet, fruity flavors appeal to younger palates without compromising sophistication.
- Safe for Pregnant Guests or Designated Drivers: No need to worry about alcohol content, making it inclusive for all.
- Incredibly Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep mean you can whip this up in minutes.
- Sophisticated Fall Flavors: The combination of caramel, apple, and cinnamon delivers a rich, autumnal taste that feels special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delightful mocktail, you’ll need the following ingredients. Most are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store:
- 4 cups Sparkling Apple Cider (non-alcoholic, such as Martinelli’s, for that bubbly sangria vibe)
- 2 cups Quality Apple Cider (look for a cloudy, fresh-pressed version for the best flavor)
- 1/4 cup Caramel Syrup or Sauce (store-bought or homemade; use a pourable consistency for mixing)
- 1 large Apple (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work well, thinly sliced)
- 1 large Orange (thinly sliced for a citrusy brightness)
- 2–3 Cinnamon Sticks (for warm, spiced notes)
- 1/4 cup Pomegranate Seeds or Fresh Cranberries (for a pop of color and tartness)
- Optional: 1/2 tsp Non-Alcoholic Caramel Extract (for an extra caramel kick)
- For Glass Rimming (Optional): 2 tbsp caramel sauce and a mix of 1 tbsp sugar with 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Essential Equipments
- Large glass pitcher or punch bowl
- Stirring spoon
- Knife Cutting board
- Small plates (for rimming glasses)
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
This site is proudly ad-free and only you can make this site possible, so check out any links below to support us.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you but these links help us grow and continue providing valuable content.
Eurolux Cast Iron Citrus Juicer | Extra-Large Commercial Grade Manual Hand Press...
$99.99 (as of August 31, 2025 22:47 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
HOTOR Lunch Bag for Men & Women - Large Capacity Insulated Lunch Bag with Mutipl...
30% Off
Umite Chef Kitchen Cooking Utensils Set, 33 pcs Non-Stick Silicone Cooking Kitch...
27% OffHow to Make Alcohol-Free Caramel Apple Cider Mocktail
Creating this mocktail is as easy as it is beautiful. Follow these steps to craft a pitcher of fall magic:
1. Prepare the Pitcher: Grab a large glass pitcher or punch bowl for that sangria aesthetic. This recipe looks stunning when you can see the colorful fruit and cinnamon sticks floating inside.
2. Combine the Base: Pour 2 cups of quality apple cider into the pitcher. Add 1/4 cup of caramel syrup or sauce, stirring gently until it’s fully incorporated. If you’re using caramel extract for a bolder flavor, add 1/2 tsp now and stir.
3. Add the Fruit and Spices: Toss in the thinly sliced apple and orange, along with 2–3 cinnamon sticks. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of pomegranate seeds or fresh cranberries for a vibrant touch. These ingredients not only add flavor but also make the sangria visually appealing.
4. Chill for Flavor: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours, to let the flavors meld. The cinnamon sticks will infuse the cider with a warm, spicy note, while the fruit releases its juices.
5. Rim the Glasses (Optional): For an extra-special presentation, rim your serving glasses with caramel and cinnamon-sugar. Pour 2 tbsp of caramel sauce onto a small plate.
On another plate, mix 1 tbsp sugar with 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon. Dip the rim of each glass into the caramel sauce, then into the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Let the rims set for a few minutes to avoid drips.
6. Add the Sparkle: Just before serving, pour 4 cups of sparkling apple cider into the pitcher. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to disturb the fizz too much. The sparkling cider gives the mocktail its signature sangria effervescence.
Serve and Enjoy.
Total Time: 10 minutes prep + 1 to 4 hours chilling
Yield: Serves 6–8, depending on glass size.
Pour the sangria into your prepared glasses, making sure each serving gets some fruit and a cinnamon stick for garnish. Serve chilled and enjoy the autumnal bliss!
Related Recipes You’ll Love to Try
- Chewy Brown Butter Pistachio Cookies: Salted & Delicious
- Pomegranate Feta Salad with Roasted Pumpkin
- 3-Ingredient Maple Fudge Frosting: Irresistible Topping
- Crispy Sweet Potato Waffles: Healthy Kid-Friendly Breakfast
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~120 kcal
- Total Fat: 0g (0% DV)
- Sodium: 10mg (0% DV)
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g (11% DV)
- Sugars: 28g (includes added sugars from caramel syrup)
- Protein: 0g
- Vitamin C: 10% DV (from orange slices and pomegranate seeds/cranberries)
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and vary based on specific brands of cider and caramel syrup used. This mocktail is naturally fat-free and low in sodium, making it a light, refreshing option for fall gatherings.
Tips for Success
To make your Caramel Apple Cider Sangria absolutely perfect, keep these tips in mind:
- Chill for Better Flavor: Letting the mixture sit in the fridge for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer it sits (up to 4 hours), the more intense the cinnamon and fruit flavors become.
- Add Sparkling Cider Last: To preserve the bubbles, don’t add the sparkling cider until you’re ready to serve. This keeps the drink fizzy and refreshing.
- Choose the Right Apples: Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples hold their shape well and add a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sangria, reduce the caramel syrup to 2–3 tablespoons and taste before adding more.
- Keep It Cold: Serve over ice if you’re not rimming the glasses, especially for outdoor fall gatherings, to keep the drink refreshing.
Serving Suggestions
This Caramel Apple Cider Sangria is a versatile drink that pairs beautifully with fall-inspired dishes and desserts. Here are some ideas to make it the star of your gathering:
1. Garnish Ideas: Add a thin apple slice or a small cinnamon stick to each glass for a festive touch. A few pomegranate seeds or cranberries floating on top add a pop of color.
2. Pairing Suggestions: This mocktail complements rich fall desserts like a caramel apple dump cake, pumpkin pie, or pecan bars.
It also pairs well with savory dishes like roasted butternut squash soup, a charcuterie board with sharp cheddar, or a hearty apple and sausage stuffing for Thanksgiving.
3. Presentation: Serve in clear glasses or mason jars to show off the vibrant fruit and cinnamon sticks. For a larger crowd, double the recipe and serve in a punch bowl with a ladle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in a crockpot?
Yes! Combine all ingredients except the sparkling apple cider in a crockpot and set it to the “warm” setting for 1–2 hours to meld the flavors.
Add the sparkling cider just before serving to maintain its fizz. This method is great for keeping the sangria warm for cozy indoor gatherings.
Can I use caramel apple syrup instead of regular caramel syrup?
Absolutely! Caramel apple syrup adds an extra layer of apple flavor that complements the cider. Use the same amount (1/4 cup) and adjust to taste if needed.
How far in advance can I prepare this?
You can prepare the base (everything except the sparkling cider) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Add the sparkling cider just before serving to keep it bubbly.
Can I make this with other fruits?
Yes! Try adding pear slices for a different fall flavor or swap pomegranate seeds for dried cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just keep the fruit slices thin so they infuse well.
What if I don’t have cinnamon sticks?
You can substitute a pinch (about 1/8 tsp) of ground cinnamon, but add it sparingly to avoid a gritty texture. Stir well to combine.
A Festive Fall Favorite
This Alcohol-Free Caramel Apple Cider Sangria is more than just a drink. It’s a celebration of fall’s best flavors, designed to bring everyone together. Plus, its versatility means you can tweak it to suit your crow. Add more fruit, adjust the sweetness, or serve it warm for a cozy twist.
Enjoy responsibly, and happy fall!
