Celebrate fall with this Apple Cider Mojito! A refreshing blend of apple cider, rum, and lemon juice topped with club soda, mint, and cinnamon.

Let me set the scene: it was one of those perfect early fall evenings. You know the kind—cool enough for a sweater but still warm enough to sit outside without shivering. I was hosting a small get-together, and while everyone else was sipping pumpkin spice lattes, I craved something different. Something that screamed “autumn,” but with a fresh twist. Enter the Apple Cider Mojito.

It was a bit of an experiment, honestly. I had a bottle of cider in the fridge, some rum leftover from summer cocktails, and a few sprigs of mint growing wildly in my garden (the only plant I’ve managed not to kill). I threw it all together, added a cinnamon stick for flair, and hoped for the best. When my friends took their first sip, their eyes lit up. One even said, “This tastes like fall in a glass!” And just like that, this cocktail became a staple for all my autumn gatherings. Now, it’s your turn to give it a try—trust me, you won’t regret it.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Mojito Recipe?

This isn’t your average mojito, and that’s exactly why I love it. Here’s what makes it stand out:

Fall Flavors with a Twist: Sweet apple cider pairs perfectly with the tanginess of lemon juice and the freshness of mint. Add a touch of cinnamon, and it’s like a crisp autumn day in liquid form.
Ridiculously Easy: No muddling, no shaking, no fuss. Just mix, garnish, and sip.
Customizable for Everyone: Whether you’re making it boozy with rum or keeping it family-friendly with sparkling cider, it’s versatile enough for any crowd.
Looks Fancy, Feels Effortless: Those cinnamon sticks and mint sprigs? They make this drink look like a million bucks without any extra effort.

Ingredient Notes:

Let’s talk about what makes this cocktail shine:

Apple Cider: Go for the real deal—fresh, unfiltered cider is where the magic happens. If you’re feeling fancy, a spiced version works wonders too.
Rum: White rum keeps it light and fresh, but spiced rum adds a cozy, warm depth. Choose your adventure!
Lemon Juice: The acidity cuts through the sweetness, giving the drink that perfect balance.
Club Soda: Adds just the right amount of fizz to keep things refreshing.
Mint Sprigs: They’re not just for looks—they add that classic mojito freshness that ties it all together.
Cinnamon Sticks & Star Anise: Optional, but they elevate the presentation and give off an inviting aroma.
Apple Slices: Not only are they gorgeous as a garnish, but they’re also a sneaky little snack at the end.

How To Make Apple Cider Mojito?

This cocktail is as easy as it gets, but I’ll walk you through it anyway. Ready? Let’s go!

Step 1. Mix Your Base

In a pitcher, stir together the apple cider, lemon juice, and rum. It’s a simple mix, but trust me, these flavors do all the heavy lifting.

Step 2. Add Ice

Right before serving, toss in some ice. Pro tip: If you’ve got those big, fancy ice cubes, use them—they melt slower and keep your drink perfectly chilled.

Step 3. Pour and Fizz

Pour the mixture into your favorite glasses, leaving a little room at the top. Add a splash of club soda to each glass for that perfect bubbly finish.

Step 4. Garnish Like a Pro

Here’s where you get to show off. Add a sprig of mint, a cinnamon stick, and a slice of apple to each glass. If you’re feeling extra fancy, throw in a star anise for good measure.

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Storage Options:

If you’re planning ahead (look at you, being all prepared):

In the Fridge: Mix the cider, rum, and lemon juice a few hours before serving. Store it in the fridge, then add ice and soda when it’s time to drink.
Not Freezer-Friendly: Unfortunately, the carbonation and delicate flavors don’t hold up well in the freezer.

Variations and Substitutions:

Want to make this drink your own? Here are a few ideas:

Non-Alcoholic: Swap the rum for sparkling apple cider or ginger ale for a kid-friendly version.
Change the Spirit: Not into rum? Vodka or bourbon work beautifully here, too.
Add Some Spice: A pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract can take this drink to the next level.
Go Citrus Crazy: Replace the lemon juice with lime for a slightly tangier vibe.

What to Serve with Apple Cider Mojito?

This drink pairs well with just about everything, but here are some of my top picks:

Savory: Think sharp cheddar cheese, spiced nuts, or a charcuterie board loaded with seasonal goodies.
Sweet: Cinnamon sugar donuts, caramel apples, or even a warm slice of apple pie.
Dinner: Serve it alongside roasted chicken or pork for a meal that screams autumn.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just mix the cider, rum, and lemon juice a few hours before. Add the soda and ice right before serving.

What type of apple cider should I use?

Fresh, unfiltered cider is best, but any apple cider will do. If you like a little extra spice, go for a spiced version.

Can I use sparkling apple cider instead of regular?

Of course! Just skip the club soda if you’re using sparkling cider—it’ll still have that bubbly magic.

The Apple Cider Mojito is the cocktail you didn’t know you needed for fall. It’s fresh, fun, and just a little fancy—perfect for everything from lazy Sunday afternoons to your next backyard party. So what are you waiting for? Mix up a batch, and let me know—doesn’t it taste like the perfect autumn day in a glass? Cheers!

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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

<Remember it later>

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!