Ingredients: 

  • 1 1/2 cups apple cider (fresh, not spiced)
  • 1 bottle (750 ml) champagne or sparkling wine (dry or semi-dry)
  • 2 tbsp cinnamon sugar (optional for rimming glasses)
  • Apple slices (for garnish)
  • Cinnamon sticks (optional, for garnish)

 Directions: 

  1. Prepare Glasses: (Optional) Rim each champagne flute with cinnamon sugar. To do so, dip the rim of the glass in a little water or apple cider and then roll it in the cinnamon sugar to coat.

  2. Combine Cider and Champagne: In each glass, pour 3 ounces of apple cider. Carefully top with 4-5 ounces of champagne or sparkling wine, depending on your preference for alcohol content.

  3. Garnish: Garnish with an apple slice on the rim of the glass. You can also add a cinnamon stick for extra flair and flavor.

  4. Serve: Serve immediately while the bubbles are still fresh.


When it comes to brunch cocktails, the mimosa is a staple. This classic drink, traditionally made with orange juice and champagne, is a refreshing and light option that’s perfect for a mid-morning celebration. But for those seeking a seasonal twist, the Apple Cider Mimosa is the perfect alternative. Combining the sweet and tart flavors of apple cider with the effervescence of champagne or sparkling wine, this drink offers the same refreshing qualities of a traditional mimosa but with a cozy, autumnal flair. Whether you're hosting a fall brunch or ringing in the New Year, the Apple Cider Mimosa is sure to impress your guests.

In this article, we will delve into every aspect of the Apple Cider Mimosa, including the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and various tips for enhancing this delicious cocktail. We’ll also explore different ways to customize the drink to suit your taste and occasion, as well as creative garnishing ideas to elevate your presentation.

The Origins of the Mimosa

Before diving into the specifics of the Apple Cider Mimosa, it’s important to understand the history of its classic predecessor, the mimosa. The mimosa is believed to have been created in the 1920s, possibly by a bartender named Frank Meier at the Ritz Hotel in Paris. The drink was originally made with equal parts of orange juice and champagne, offering a light, bubbly, and citrusy cocktail that was perfect for the daytime. The mimosa quickly became a brunch favorite, especially in the United States, and has remained a popular cocktail ever since.

Why Apple Cider Mimosa?

While the traditional mimosa remains a crowd favorite, many people seek something a little different for the fall and winter months. Apple cider, with its warm and comforting flavor profile, is an ideal choice for this seasonal variation. It brings a slightly sweet and tangy taste to the drink, balancing perfectly with the dry or semi-dry champagne or sparkling wine. The combination of cider and bubbles provides a refreshing yet cozy cocktail, making it perfect for cool-weather gatherings like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall-inspired celebration.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need for the Apple Cider Mimosa

To make a traditional Apple Cider Mimosa, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The beauty of this drink is that you don’t need any complicated components to create something delicious.

Key Ingredients:

  1. Apple Cider: Choose a high-quality apple cider for the best flavor. Opt for fresh, unfiltered cider rather than spiced or sweetened versions, as this will provide a more natural and balanced taste. Apple cider is typically available in stores during the fall and early winter months, but you can also find it online or make your own by pressing apples at home.

  2. Champagne or Sparkling Wine: A dry or semi-dry champagne is the best option for this recipe, as it balances the sweetness of the cider without overpowering it. If you prefer a slightly sweeter cocktail, a sparkling wine with a little more residual sugar can also work well. Prosecco, cava, or any other type of sparkling wine can be used if champagne is unavailable. The effervescence of the bubbles in the sparkling wine is a key element in giving the mimosa its refreshing character.

  3. Cinnamon Sugar (Optional): For a touch of extra flavor and decoration, you can rim the glasses with cinnamon sugar. This adds a festive, spiced element to the drink that complements the apple cider’s flavors. To make cinnamon sugar, mix equal parts of cinnamon and sugar and use it to coat the rim of the glass.

  4. Apple Slices: Fresh apple slices are the perfect garnish for an Apple Cider Mimosa. Use thin slices of a crisp apple, such as a Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for a bright contrast to the drink’s colors and flavors. The apple slices will not only add visual appeal but also a hint of fruity aroma.

  5. Cinnamon Sticks (Optional): For an added seasonal touch, you can drop a cinnamon stick into each glass, giving the drink a subtle spiced aroma. This makes the mimosa even more perfect for holiday occasions.

Directions: How to Make the Apple Cider Mimosa

The preparation for an Apple Cider Mimosa is simple and quick, making it a perfect choice for a busy brunch or holiday gathering. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delightful cocktail:

Step 1: Prepare the Glasses

Start by preparing your glasses. If you’re using cinnamon sugar to rim your glasses, now is the time to do it. Begin by pouring a small amount of apple cider onto a plate. Then, on another plate, spread a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. Dip the rim of each champagne flute into the apple cider, allowing a small amount to coat the glass, then dip it into the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Swirl the glass gently to ensure that the rim is evenly coated. This will add a delicious, spiced note to each sip.

Step 2: Add the Apple Cider

Once the glasses are ready, pour about 3 ounces of apple cider into each champagne flute. This is the base of your mimosa and the flavor profile you want to shine through, so it’s important to choose high-quality cider.

Step 3: Pour the Sparkling Wine or Champagne

Next, top the cider with 4-5 ounces of your chosen sparkling wine or champagne. Pour gently to avoid disturbing the bubbles too much. You want the effervescence to remain intact, as it’s one of the defining qualities of a mimosa. When pouring, tilt the glass slightly at an angle and pour slowly to allow the bubbles to rise gently.

Step 4: Garnish

For a beautiful and festive touch, garnish your Apple Cider Mimosa with a slice of fresh apple. You can either place the apple slice directly into the drink or hang it on the rim of the glass. If you’re using cinnamon sticks, drop one into each glass for a seasonal touch. The cinnamon stick also provides a subtle flavor infusion as it sits in the drink.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Once your drinks are prepared, serve them immediately while they’re still bubbly and fresh. The Apple Cider Mimosa is best enjoyed right after preparation to capture the effervescence of the champagne or sparkling wine.

Tips for Making the Perfect Apple Cider Mimosa

  • Chill the Ingredients: For the best experience, chill both the apple cider and the sparkling wine in advance. This helps keep your mimosa refreshing and cool when served.
  • Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your personal preference, you can adjust the ratio of cider to sparkling wine. For a sweeter drink, use more cider. If you prefer a drier version, increase the amount of sparkling wine.
  • Add a Flavored Syrup: If you want to experiment with flavor, consider adding a small amount of flavored syrup, like maple syrup or caramel syrup, to the cider. This adds depth and richness to the drink, making it even more indulgent.
  • Use Sparkling Water for a Lighter Version: For a less alcoholic version, swap the champagne for sparkling water or a non-alcoholic sparkling wine. This is a great option for those who are abstaining from alcohol but still want to enjoy the fizzy fun of a mimosa.

Variations of the Apple Cider Mimosa

The Apple Cider Mimosa is highly customizable, and you can get creative by adding different fruits or flavoring the cider in unique ways. Here are a few variations to try:

  1. Spiced Apple Cider Mimosa: To enhance the fall flavor, infuse the apple cider with warming spices like cloves, nutmeg, or allspice. Heat the cider in a saucepan with a few whole spices, then allow it to cool before using it in the mimosa.

  2. Caramel Apple Cider Mimosa: Add a splash of caramel syrup to the cider for a rich, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the sparkling wine. The caramel will add depth and a touch of luxury to the drink.

  3. Cranberry Apple Cider Mimosa: For a tart twist, add a splash of cranberry juice or muddle fresh cranberries into the drink. This variation gives the mimosa a vibrant pink hue and a tangy bite.

  4. Apple Pie Mimosa: For an indulgent treat, combine apple cider with a splash of vanilla extract and cinnamon syrup. This mimosa will taste like a liquid version of a warm apple pie, making it perfect for the holiday season.

Creative Garnishing Ideas

Garnishing your Apple Cider Mimosa is a fun way to make the drink more festive and personal. Here are some ideas to inspire your garnishes:

  • Sugar Rim: As mentioned earlier, a cinnamon-sugar rim is a great addition to the drink, providing a flavorful touch before your first sip.
  • Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle a little bit of caramel sauce on the inside of the glass for a touch of sweetness and a pretty presentation.
  • Candied Ginger: For a spicy and unique twist, garnish your mimosa with a piece of candied ginger. It adds flavor complexity and visual appeal.
  • Herbs: Fresh rosemary sprigs or thyme can be added as a garnish for an aromatic, earthy note that complements the cider.

The Apple Cider Mimosa is a delightful and festive cocktail that brings a unique twist to the traditional mimosa. It’s simple to prepare, highly customizable, and perfect for autumn and winter celebrations. Whether you're hosting a holiday brunch or looking for a drink to enjoy with friends, this seasonal cocktail is sure to be a hit!