This Apple Mojito is one of my favorite apple cider cocktails. It’s a delightful way to combine the sweet-tart character of apple cider with the bright, refreshing punch of a mojito—perfect for fall gatherings and cozy evenings.
The balance of apple cider, mint and rum makes this drink stand out among seasonal cocktails. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable to different spirits or non-alcoholic versions, and presents beautifully when garnished with autumn touches like apple slices and cinnamon sticks.
What We Love About This Apple Mojito Recipe
Seasonal cocktails add a festive note to any gathering. This apple cider mojito is crisp, refreshing and straightforward enough to make for a crowd.
- Quick: Ready in about 5 minutes.
- Simple: Uses just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients.
- Flexible: Swap the rum for bourbon or make it alcohol-free.
Ingredient Notes for Apple Cider Mojito
- Apple Cider: Use fresh apple cider from a cider mill or a good-quality store-bought variety. Regular apple juice works in a pinch but the cider gives more flavor and depth.
- White Rum: The classic choice for mojitos—light and smooth. Spiced rum can be used for a warmer, autumnal flavor.
- Red Apple Schnapps: Adds concentrated apple flavor and a touch of sweetness.
- Seltzer or Club Soda: Choose plain or a lightly flavored seltzer for a fizzy finish.
- Fresh Mint: Essential for the mojito profile—tear or muddle leaves to release the aroma.
- Cinnamon Stick: A stick or two for garnish infuses a warm spice note and looks seasonal.
Equipment Needed
- Cocktail shaker or mixing glass
- Muddler or wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons/cups
- Tall or highball glasses
How to Make the Apple Mojito
Follow these simple steps to prepare a single cocktail. Multiply the ingredients for a pitcher to serve a group.
STEP 1: MUDDLE
Tear 2–3 fresh mint leaves and place them in a tall glass. Gently muddle the mint to release its oils—avoid over-muddling, which can turn the mint bitter.
STEP 2: MIX
Fill the glass with ice. In a shaker, combine the apple cider, white rum and red apple schnapps. Shake briefly to chill and blend the flavors.
STEP 3: TOP & GARNISH
Pour the cider and spirit mixture over the ice and muddled mint. Top with seltzer or club soda and stir gently. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, a sprig of mint and an apple slice.
Prep and Storage Tips
Make Ahead
You can mix the cider and spirits in a pitcher ahead of time and refrigerate. Add ice, soda and fresh mint just before serving to keep the drink bright and fizzy.
Storage
Prepared mixtures (without seltzer) will keep in the fridge for 24–48 hours. Add soda and fresh garnishes when serving.
Freezing Tip
Freeze apple cider in ice cube trays to chill drinks without diluting them as the cubes melt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Replace rum and schnapps with extra apple cider or apple juice and add a touch of simple syrup or honey to taste. Top with seltzer for fizz.
Yes. Bourbon or whiskey provides a richer, warmer profile. Vodka offers a cleaner, crisper base.
Absolutely. Multiply the ingredients to serve a crowd; prepare the cider and spirits in a pitcher and add soda and mint when serving.
A squeeze of lime or a few lime slices can brighten the cocktail with citrus balance, though it’s optional with apple-forward flavors.
Expert Tips
- Use flavored seltzer: Lightly flavored seltzers (ginger, cinnamon or pear) can enhance the apple character.
- Garnish well: Apple slices, a cinnamon stick and extra mint make a pretty and aromatic presentation.
- Add ginger: Fresh ginger, ginger ale or ginger beer pairs nicely with apple and adds warmth.
- Serve in a highball glass: The tall shape highlights the layers and allows for lots of ice and garnish.
What to Serve with Apple Mojito
- Bacon Cheddar Ranch Dip or other savory party dips
- Pie crust crackers or simple cheese and crackers
- Spiced cookies or pumpkin treats for a seasonal pairing
Apple Cider Mojito
This Apple Mojito blends the sweet-tart notes of apple cider with crisp mint and rum for a refreshing fall cocktail.
Prep Time: 5 mins | Total Time: 5 mins
Servings: 1 cocktail | Course: Beverages and Cocktails | Author: Christina Hitchcock
Ingredients
- 4 ounces apple cider
- 3 ounces white rum
- 1 ounce red apple schnapps
- Seltzer or club soda, to top
- Mint sprigs
- Cinnamon sticks, for garnish
Instructions
- Tear 2–3 mint leaves and place them in a tall glass. Muddle gently.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the apple cider, rum and schnapps. Shake to chill.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared glass, top with seltzer, stir gently and garnish with extra mint and a cinnamon stick.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit spirits and use extra cider with a splash of simple syrup if desired.
- Try adding a thin apple slice on the rim for a decorative touch.
- Spiced variations like star anise, cloves or nutmeg complement the cider well.
Nutrition (per serving – estimate)
Calories: 353 kcal | Carbohydrates: 24 g | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 1 g | Sugar: 22 g
The nutritional information provided are estimates. Verify with your own trusted resource if needed.
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