Written by Susan — Quit drinking at 37 • Sober since 1998 • Sharing what actually works

Written by Susan — Quit drinking at 37 • Sober since 1998 • Sharing what actually works

Spicy Ginger Apple Mocktail Recipe

This spicy ginger apple mocktail combines the sweetness of apple juice with the warming bite of fresh ginger. Serve it over ice with a few thin apple slices for a simple alcohol-free drink that takes about 10 minutes to prepare.

Start with a little ginger and taste as you go—you can make it gently warming or give it a stronger kick. The apple juice may provide all the sweetness you need, so honey or agave is optional.

Ingredients

Makes: 2 servings
Preparation time: About 10 minutes

• 2 cups chilled apple juice
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger, or less to taste
• Up to 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup, optional
• Ice cubes
• Thin apple slices for garnish, optional

How to Make Your Spicy Ginger Apple Mocktail

1. Prepare the ginger. Wash the ginger and peel away any tough skin. Finely grate enough for one tablespoon.
2. Mix with the apple juice. Pour the chilled apple juice into a small pitcher. Stir in one teaspoon of grated ginger to start, adding more if you prefer a stronger flavor.
3. Let the flavor develop. Leave the mixture for about five minutes, then stir and taste. Add more ginger if needed.
4. Sweeten if needed. Stir in a little agave or honey. If using honey, loosen it with a small splash of warm water first so it mixes more easily into the cold juice.
5. Strain if you prefer. For a smoother drink, pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer, pressing the ginger gently with the back of a spoon.
6. Serve over ice. Fill two glasses with ice and divide the drink between them. Garnish with thin apple slices and serve.

Adjust It to Your Taste

Prefer a milder drink? Use just one teaspoon of grated ginger for the pitcher. Taste after it has rested before adding more.

Want a stronger ginger kick? Gradually add the remaining ginger, up to the full tablespoon.

Prefer less sweetness? Leave out the honey or agave. For a lighter drink, add a little chilled still water.

Want a fizzy version? Replace half a cup of the apple juice with half a cup of chilled plain sparkling water. Add it just before serving.

Prefer a smoother texture? Strain out the grated ginger before pouring the drink into your glasses.

Making It Ahead

Mix the apple juice and ginger, let the flavor develop, then strain once it tastes right to you. Keep the mixture covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Add ice and freshly cut apple slices shortly before serving. If you’re making the fizzy variation, add the sparkling water then, too.

Explore More Easy Mocktail Recipes →

Frequently Asked Questions