Ah, the leaves have fallen and fresh apples are in all the markets. This Apple Cider Mint Cocktail is inspired by the crisp apples of Fall and the need for a party cocktail. This lightly sweet, refreshing cocktail is lower in alcohol so it’s perfect for a long get-together like Thanksgiving.
This recipe has sweetness from the apple juice and simple syrup so we used Reverend Nat’s Revival Hard Cider which isn’t very sweet. And let me take a turn here for a minute and say that it’s refreshing to have so many hard cider choices to choose from. I remember a time when you could only find Woodchuck or Strongbow. With the craft brewing revolution in full swing we even have several choices within our own community and if we expand out to our state we have 50. I think this is interesting because in 18th century America apple cider was a staple at every family table (learn more about the history here). Cider is gaining popularity again!
Apple Cider Mint Cocktail Recipe
This cocktail recipe has a few simple ingredients so it’s easy to make before a party. Or you can make a batch just for yourself, we aren’t here to judge. Yield: 6-8 glasses
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup mint leaves
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 cups apple juice (if you want to DIY juice 6 apples)
- 1 bottle Cider (we used Reverend Nat’s Revival Hard Apple)
- mint leaves for garnish
DIRECTIONS:
- Make the mint simple syrup. In a saucepan add 1 cup water, chopped mint and sugar. Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar dissolves. Strain to remove mint leaves and set aside until cool.
- Mix the apple juice, mint syrup and cider. Serve in a tulip glass or other stemware over ice. Garnish with mint sprig.
