Apple Cider Mimosas

There is something about a chilled mimosa that feels right, even on a cold morning. I made these Apple Cider Mimosas for a small brunch at home last fall, and the mix of crisp cider and bubbly Champagne reminded me of chilly walks through a local orchard. It’s simple, but it feels festive the moment the glass hits the table.

This versatile holiday cocktail is perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether it’s a Thanksgiving morning, a Christmas brunch, or a relaxed weekend, these Apple Cider Mimosas are a delightful treat that won’t keep you tied to the kitchen. Plus, they’re quick to make, which is a lifesaver when guests are already at your door.

If you like bright drinks with a hint of sweetness and a clean finish, you’ll probably enjoy this easy spritz recipe. The cider brings a warm, apple-like taste, the Champagne keeps it light, and the gold-rimmed sprinkles add a touch of fun that feels right for the season.

Why You’ll Love This

Apple Cider Mimosas strike a balance that makes them feel special without being fussy. They use ingredients that many people already have on hand during the holidays, and the flavors pair well with both savory breakfast plates and sweet pastries. The color alone makes them look like you spent time on them, even though you barely did.

A few reasons this drink stands out

• Quick to make, even when you’re rushing around before guests arrive
• Uses affordable items like cider and sprinkles that are easy to find
• Tastes light and refreshing, not heavy
• Looks great in photos for social posts
• Works for both small gatherings and big brunch spreads

Once you try one, it often becomes a reliable go-to for chilly mornings or holiday parties. It’s friendly, simple, and always gets a smile.

Ingredients

• 3 oz apple cider
• 3 oz Champagne
• 1 apple slice, for garnish
• water for rimming
• gold sprinkles for rimming

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

Many sparkling wines pair well with this recipe. You don’t need a top-shelf bottle; just one with a balanced taste that pairs well with cider. Some of my favorite bottles work well for mixed drinks because they stay bubbly and don’t overpower the fruit flavors.

Here are a few options

• Korbel Brut, a solid pick that stays crisp
• La Marca Prosecco for a sweeter spritz
• Mionetto Prosecco for a soft fruit note
• Freixenet Cava, if you want something dry
• Any non-alcoholic sparkling wine, if you want to serve this without alcohol
  

If Champagne is out of your budget, grab cava or prosecco. Both taste great with apple cider and still give that fizzy finish everyone enjoys.

Equipment and Glassware

You don’t need much to make Apple Cider Mimosas. A simple Champagne flute looks nicest, but any tall glass works. I like using a shallow plate for the sprinkles because it makes rimming the glass easier.

Tools that help

• Champagne flute
• Bar Spoon
• Jigger

If you’re making several at once, set up a small station to keep the process smooth.

How to Make It

This drink is straightforward, which helps when you’re juggling other dishes or trying to get brunch on the table. Prepare the rim first to keep the sprinkles in place, then pour the liquids slowly to maintain high bubbles.

1. Dip the rim of a Champagne flute into water, then into a small plate of gold sprinkles.
2. Pour 3 oz of apple cider into the flute.
3. Slowly top with 3 oz Champagne. Let the bubbles mix naturally.
4. Add a fresh apple slice on the rim or float it inside the glass.
5. Serve right away while it’s cold and sparkling.

Some people add a touch of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla to the cider before pouring. If you prefer a slightly warmer tone, it’s a simple adjustment.

Pro Tips

Even simple cocktails benefit from a few small tricks. These help your Apple Cider Mimosas look clean and taste their best without adding extra steps.

Try these helpful hints.

• Chill both the cider and the Champagne so the drink stays crisp
• Slice the apples ahead of time and keep them in lemon water to prevent browning
• Pour slowly to keep the bubbles from spilling over
• Use coarse sprinkles for a better rim texture
• Pick clear cider if you like a lighter color
• Keep extra bottles on ice if you plan to make several rounds
• Use a small pitcher if you want to pour for a group at once
  

Feel free to experiment. Once you grasp the basic idea, minor adjustments come naturally.

Variations

One of the best parts about this drink is how easy it is to customize. You can adjust sweetness, change the fruit, or swap the sparkling wine to match your taste.

Ideas to try

• Add a splash of orange juice for a fall version of a classic mimosa
• Use prosecco for a sweeter drink
• Add a cinnamon stick for a mild spice
• Make a zero alcohol version with sparkling cider
• Swap apple cider for pear cider if you want something lighter

Playing around with flavors can turn this into your holiday signature drink.

When to Serve and Pairings

Apple Cider Mimosas shine at brunch, but they’re perfect for more than just breakfast time. I’ve served them at small dinners, early afternoon get-togethers, and even as a welcome drink when friends drop by during the holidays.

Great times to serve

• Holiday brunches
• Thanksgiving morning
  Christmas breakfast
• Fall or winter parties
• Simple weekend mornings when you want something fun

Pair them with

• French toast
• Cinnamon rolls
• Bacon or sausage
• Fruit tarts
• Soft cheeses like brie

For more ideas, check out.

• Cinnamon Roll Shots
• Pumpkin Spice White Russians
• Cranberry Prosecco Punch

Storage and Serving Notes

This cocktail is best made fresh, as the bubbles fade once it is poured. You can prep the rims and slice the fruit ahead of time, but pour the cider and Champagne right before serving. If you’re hosting, keep both bottles cold in the fridge or an ice bucket.

If you want to batch the drink, mix the cider and Champagne in a pitcher just before serving, then pour it quickly into glasses. The bubbles won’t last long, so only batch what you’ll serve right away.

FAQs

Here are a few common questions people ask when making Apple Cider Mimosas.

Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes. Use sparkling cider or non alcoholic sparkling wine. It still tastes bright and refreshing.

What type of cider works best?
Fresh apple cider with a clean apple taste. Avoid anything too thick or heavily spiced unless you want a stronger fall flavor.

Can I use apple juice instead of cider?
You can, but the flavor is lighter. Cider offers a deeper apple flavor and a more appealing color.

What’s the best Champagne for mimosas?
A mid-priced brut Champagne works well. Cava or prosecco are great, affordable options.

Do I need to rim the glass?
No. It just gives a festive touch. The drink still tastes great without it.

More Cocktails to Try

If you enjoy easy holiday cocktails that mix fruit and bubbly, here are a few others worth making. They follow a similar style, so they’re great for brunch menus or party spreads.

• Cranberry Mimosa: with tart cranberry juice and sparkling wine
• Pear Prosecco Spritz: with light pear nectar for a soft taste
• Caramel Apple Sangria: for a fall drink with sliced fruit
• Ginger Pear Fizz: with a bit of spice from ginger beer

These pair well with breakfast dishes, sweet pastries, or simple snacks. They bring the same bright feel as Apple Cider Mimosas, so they fit right into holiday hosting.