Apple Cider Mimosas are a sparkling seasonal take on the classic brunch cocktail. Crisp apple cider pairs beautifully with Champagne, creating a drink that’s equal parts refreshing and festive. A rim of gold sprinkles adds sparkle and flair, making it perfect for holiday gatherings, brunch parties, or celebratory toasts. Garnished with a fresh apple slice, these mimosas look just as good as they taste. Light, bubbly, and fruit-forward, this cocktail is simple to make yet impressive enough to serve at any special occasion.
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Tasting Notes
The Apple Cider Mimosas is a festive twist on the brunch classic, combining sparkling wine with the crisp sweetness of apple cider. Champagne lends dryness and effervescence, cutting through the cider’s fruit-forward profile. The cider balances with refreshing sweetness and a seasonal touch that makes the drink perfect for autumn and holiday celebrations. A garnish of fresh apple enhances aroma while tying the flavor together. The gold-sprinkle rim adds sparkle and celebratory charm. Served chilled in a flute, this cocktail is crisp, slightly sweet, and bubbly, offering a balance that works equally well for brunch or evening toasts.
Equipment and Glassware
This Apple Cider Mimosas requires minimal tools and setup. A Champagne flute is essential for presentation, showcasing the bubbles and keeping the drink crisp. A small plate is useful for holding sprinkles to rim the glass, while a shallow dish of water helps them adhere evenly. A jigger or measuring tool ensures precise portions of apple cider for consistency. A paring knife allows for clean apple slices for garnish. No shaker or strainer is needed this cocktail comes together directly in the serving glass, making it as convenient as it is festive. The right glassware highlights both sparkle and color.
Ingredients
- 3 oz apple cider
- 3 oz Champagne
- 1 apple slice for garnish
- Water for rimming
- Gold sprinkles for rimming
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the glass. Dip the top of a Champagne flute into water, then dip it into a small plate of gold and silver sprinkles to coat the rim.
- Pour apple cider into the Champagne flute.
- Top the glass with Champagne, allowing it to gently mix with the apple cider.
- Garnish with a fresh apple slice for a crisp and elegant touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Apple Cider Mimosas!
Pro Tips
- Use freshly pressed cider for the best flavor.
- Choose dry Champagne or sparkling wine to balance sweetness.
- Chill all ingredients beforehand for a crisp, refreshing finish.
- Add sprinkles just before serving so they adhere well.
- Cut apple slices thin so they rest neatly on the rim.
- Swap sprinkles for cinnamon sugar for a spiced variation.
- Consider prosecco or cava as alternatives to Champagne.
When to Serve
The Apple Cider Mimosa is ideal for brunches, holiday gatherings, or festive occasions where sparkling cocktails set the mood. It works well as a celebratory drink for Thanksgiving or Christmas morning, offering seasonal flavors without being heavy. Its balance of bubbles and fruit also makes it perfect for bridal showers, fall weddings, or autumn picnics. Because it’s easy to assemble directly in the glass, it’s a convenient option for entertaining larger groups without much preparation. With its crisp sweetness and sparkle, this cocktail is a versatile and festive choice for both daytime and evening celebrations.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Champagne/Sparkling Wine: Veuve Clicquot, La Marca Prosecco, or Freixenet Cava.
- Apple Cider: Martinelli’s, R.W. Knudsen, or orchard-pressed cider.
- Sprinkles: Wilton or Fancy Sprinkles for festive rims.
- Apples: Honeycrisp or Gala slices for garnish.
Similar Cocktails
- Spiced Apple Sangria
- Honeycrisp Apple Sangria
- Pomegranate Orange Champagne
- Autumn Sparkler Cocktail
- Red Moon Over Manhattan
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 oz apple cider
- 3 oz Champagne
- 1 apple slice for garnish
- Water for rimming
- Gold sprinkles for rimming
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the glass. Dip the top of a Champagne flute into water, then dip it into a small plate of gold and silver sprinkles to coat the rim.
- Pour apple cider into the Champagne flute.
- Top the glass with Champagne, allowing it to gently mix with the apple cider.
- Garnish with a fresh apple slice for a crisp and elegant touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Apple Cider Mimosas!
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use chilled cider and Champagne for the crispest flavor.
- For a sweeter version, substitute prosecco for Champagne.
- Mix gold and silver sprinkles for an extra festive presentation.