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Cozy Apple Cider Mimosa with Easy Cinnamon Sugar Rim

apple cider mimosa - featured image

A cozy apple cider mimosa with a cinnamon sugar rim that recreates a beloved Vermont cider house drink. This quick and easy cocktail combines tart apple cider, bubbly prosecco, and warm spice for a comforting, soul-warming experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider
  • 4 ounces chilled apple cider (unfiltered, cloudy)
  • 4 ounces chilled prosecco or sparkling wine (brut or extra dry)
  • 1 tablespoon apple brandy or bourbon (optional)
  • Ice cubes (optional)
  • 1 thin apple slice (honeycrisp or granny smith)
  • 1 small cinnamon stick
  • Fresh rosemary sprig (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cinnamon sugar mixture: In a small shallow dish, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Whisk together with a fork until evenly distributed.
  2. Make the honey adhesive: In another small dish, mix the honey and apple cider together until the honey dissolves completely into the cider.
  3. Prepare the glass rim: Dip the rim of a champagne flute or mason jar into the honey mixture, rotating gently to coat about a quarter-inch of the rim. Let excess drip off, then immediately dip into the cinnamon sugar mixture, rotating to coat evenly. Tap gently to remove loose sugar and let sit for 30 seconds.
  4. Add the apple cider: Pour the chilled apple cider into the prepared glass, filling it about halfway. If using apple brandy or bourbon, add it now and swirl gently.
  5. Top with prosecco: Slowly pour the chilled prosecco over the back of a spoon held just above the cider to preserve bubbles. Fill the glass to about an inch from the rim.
  6. Add garnishes: Place the apple slice on the rim of the glass, sliding it slightly into the drink. Add the cinnamon stick and rosemary sprig if using.
  7. Serve immediately: Place the glass on a napkin or coaster and serve right away, as the cinnamon sugar rim will start to dissolve after about 10 minutes.

Notes

Chill all ingredients thoroughly for best results. Use brut or extra dry prosecco to balance sweetness. The honey-cider adhesive creates a better rim than honey alone. For a mocktail, substitute prosecco with sparkling apple cider or ginger ale. The rim can be prepared up to an hour ahead, but do not add liquid until serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider mimosa, cinnamon sugar rim, fall cocktail, brunch drink, cozy drink, prosecco cocktail, apple cider cocktail