When it comes to brunch, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing and indulgent cocktail to elevate the experience. This apple cider mimosa is a delightful twist on the classic mimosa that combines the crisp flavours of apple cider with the effervescence of Champagne or sparkling wine. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering with friends or looking to add a special touch to your weekend brunch, this fall cocktail is sure to impress and delight.
The Best Ciders for Apple Cider Mimosa
When it comes to crafting the perfect apple cider mimosa, the quality and flavour of the apple cider you use is of most importance. Not all apple ciders are created equal and the fermentation and production process can greatly impact the final flavour profile.
Here are some of the best apple cider to consider for your fall mimosa recipe:
- Dry Cider: A dry, unoaked cider with a crisp, clean flavor profile can provide the perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of the sparkling wine.
- Semi-Sweet Cider: A cider with a touch of residual sweetness can create a nicely balanced apple cider mimosa, especially when paired with a brut or extra-dry sparkling wine.
- Spiced Cider: Ciders infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger can add an extra layer of complexity and seasonal flair to your mimosas.
- Barrel-Aged Cider: The subtle oak and vanilla notes from barrel-aged ciders can lend a sophisticated touch to your apple cider mimosas.
When selecting your cider, be sure to choose one that you truly enjoy on its own. The quality and flavour of the cider will be the foundation for your mimosa, so it’s important to start with a high-quality product that you find delicious!
Apple Cider Mimosa Recipe
While the classic mimosa is undoubtedly a timeless favourite, the apple cider mimosa has emerged as a delightful twist on the original. This variation takes the same basic concept of sparkling wine and fruit juice, but substitutes the orange juice for crisp and tart apple cider. Garnish with a slices of apple and, you can also add, a cinnamon stick, or a star anise pod for a festive touch.
Serves: 2
Prep: 5 Minutes
Apple Cider Mimosa Ingredients
1/2 apple; sliced (I used pink lady apples)
6 fl oz champagne or sparkling wine (I used Gamma Di Luna)
6 fl oz apple cider or spiced apple cider
Kitchen Tools
- 2 Champagne Flutes or coupe glasses
- Knife
How to make an apple cider mimosa
1.Slice the apple. Be sure to remove the core.
2. In a chilled Champagne flute, add in sliced apples.
3. Fill the glass half way with chilled champagne or sparkling wine.
4. Fill the rest of the glass with chilled apple cider and serve cold!
Spiced apple cider
For the spiced apple cider variation, you can buy it at the store or make your own. Start by making a batch by simmering apple cider with whole spices like cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, and a pinch of ground nutmeg in a pot. Allow the flavours to meld, then strain and chill the cider before using.
When ready to serve the spiced apple cider Mimosa, pour the chilled champagne or sparkling wine into a glass and top with the spiced apple cider. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, apple slice, or a piece of candied ginger for a festive touch.
Apple Cider Mimosa
Equipment
- 2 Champagne Flutes or coupe glasses
- 1 Knife
Ingredients
- 1/2 apple Sliced, used pink lady apples
- 6 oz champagne or sparkling wine I used Gamma Di Luna
- 6 oz apple cider or spiced apple cider
Instructions
- Slice the apple. Be sure to remove the core.
- In a chilled Champagne flute, add in sliced apples.
- Fill the glass half way with chilled champagne or sparkling wine.
- Fill the rest of the glass with chilled apple cider and serve cold!
Notes
Spiced apple cider
For the spiced apple cider variation, you can buy it at the store or make your own. Start by making a batch by simmering apple cider with whole spices like cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, and a pinch of ground nutmeg in a pot. Allow the flavours to meld, then strain and chill the cider before using. When ready to serve the spiced apple cider Mimosa, pour the chilled champagne or sparkling wine into a glass and top with the spiced apple cider. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, apple slice, or a piece of candied ginger for a festive touch.Nutrition
Serving and Garnishing Tips
One of the best things about apple cider mimosas is that they’re incredibly versatile when it comes to serving and garnishing. Here are some tips to help you elevate your brunch cocktail presentation:
Glassware
- Champagne flutes or coupe glasses are classic choices that showcase the bubbles and colour of the mimosa.
- Highball or Collins glasses can also work well, especially if you want to serve the mimosa over ice.
- For a more casual vibe, consider using stemless wine glasses or even mason jars.
Garnishes
- Thin apple slices, either fresh or dehydrated, make a beautiful and natural garnish.
- Cinnamon sticks, star anise, or whole cloves can add warmth and seasonal flair.
- Fresh sprigs of rosemary, thyme, or mint can provide a fragrant and herbal touch.
- Candied ginger or a drizzle of caramel sauce can add a sweet element.
Presentation
- Rim the glasses with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a dusting of ground nutmeg for a decorative touch.
- Serve the autumn mimosa on a tray or platter with the garnishes arranged artfully around the glasses.
- For a festive brunch, consider setting up a DIY mimosa bar with a selection of juices, ciders, and garnishes for guests to customize their own drinks.
Serving Suggestions and Food Pairings
Apple cider mimosa are a versatile brunch cocktail that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings and with a wide range of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions and food pairing ideas to consider:
Brunch Menus
- Pair apple cider mimosas with classic brunch fare like fluffy pancakes, French toasts, or quiche.
- They also complement savoury dishes like breakfast burritos, eggs Benedict, or avocado toast.
- For a heartier meal, serve the mimosas alongside a breakfast hash or a frittata loaded with seasonal vegetables.
Holiday Gatherings
- Apple cider mimosas are a festive and crowd-pleasing choice for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s brunch.
- They can be a lovely accompaniment to a holiday spread featuring roasted turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
- For a more casual holiday gathering, serve the fall mimosa alongside a spread of pastries, muffins, and fresh fruit.
Afternoon Tea or Showers
- Apple cider mimosas can be a sophisticated and refreshing choice for an afternoon tea party or a bridal/baby shower.
- Pair them with delicate finger sandwiches, scones, and petit fours for a truly indulgent experience.
- Consider offering a non-alcoholic apple cider option for guests.
PinThe apple cider mimosa is a delightful and refreshing twist on the classic mimosa that’s perfect for any brunch or special occasion. By combining the crisp, tart flavours of apple cider with the bubbly effervescence of Champagne or sparkling wine, you can create a cocktail that’s both sophisticated and easy to enjoy. So, the next time you’re planning a weekend gathering or a holiday celebration, be sure to add the apple cider mimosa to your menu!
I hope you enjoyed this recipe for Apple Cider Mimosa as much I did! For more fall drink recipes, you can try one of these 15+ Fall Cocktails To Make or this Apple Cider Martini!
