Easy Dirty Apple Cider Recipe (The Perfect Fall Mocktail)

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I’ve been seeing dirty soda everywhere lately, and I fell hard for this fall version. This dirty apple cider recipe is sweet, fizzy, and topped with caramel creamer for the coziest fall drink I know. It’s one of my favorite no bake gluten free apple recipes, mostly because I can make it in under 5 minutes with just 4 ingredients. This is one of those easy drinks that tastes way fancier than it actually is. No blender, no cooking, just stirring and sipping.

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I love the whole dirty soda idea. Soda, creamer, and a splash of something fun stirred together into one pretty drink? Yes please.

I knew I had to make a fall version the second the idea hit me. Then I was at the grocery store and spotted apple cider back in stock for the season. I knew right away it would be perfect with some Sprite and coffee creamer.

This simple recipe came together for me on the first try, and it’s been on repeat in my house ever since. It’s also become one of my go-to drinks for Thanksgiving class party food ideas, since it’s so easy to make in a batch.

Dirty Apple Cider

My kids love when I make fun drinks for them to enjoy, so this apple flavored dirty soda was a no-brainer. And since it’s made with just a few simple ingredients, I can whip it up all fall long!

This ingredient list is short, and I bet you already have most of it in your fridge right now. I’ll list the exact measurements down in the recipe card below.

• Apple cider: The base of the drink and where all that cozy fall flavor comes from.
• Sprite: Adds the fizz and a touch of sweetness.
• Caramel macchiato coffee creamer: I pour this over the top for that classic dirty soda swirl.
• Cinnamon: I sprinkle this on top for a warm, fall finishing touch.
• Whipped cream: For topping the drink before serving.

How to Make Dirty Apple Cider

Wondering how to make dirty apple cider? I have good news for you! This mocktail recipe only takes three steps for me, so it’s an easy one to whip up any night of the week.

I start with a glass full of ice. Then I pour in the apple cider first. When making a dirty soda, it’s best to start with cold liquids. So, I always make sure to chill my ingredients and add ice to the glass before mixing.

After I pour in the apple cider, I top it with some Sprite. I like to go half and half on both drink ingredients to balance the flavor, but you can test out your own measurements as you’re making your dirty soda. Once both of the ingredients are added, I stir them up to mix the lemon lime soda into the cider.

Next, I pour the caramel macchiato creamer right over the top of the drink. I give it another stir before serving so the caramel flavor spreads through the whole glass.

I finish it off with a swirl of whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon on top. That’s it, my dirty apple cider mocktail is ready to drink.

Dirty Apple Cider Recipe Ideas

See how simple it is to make your own dirty apple cider at home? Once I learned how to make this basic fall mocktail, I started having some fun customizing the recipe!

I find this recipe easy to make my own with just a couple of simple swaps. Try these recipe ideas as you’re making your own dirty soda:

• I swap the apple cider for apple juice when that’s what’s in my fridge.
• I like trying a different flavored coffee creamer, like cinnamon or vanilla, for a twist on the classic. Or just grab some half and half for a milder flavor.
• I sometimes use a different soda in place of Sprite, like cream soda or even Coke.

Dirty Apple Cider FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes, I’ve swapped in apple juice when that’s what I had on hand, and it works.

Is this a mocktail or a cocktail?

The way I make it, this is a family-friendly mocktail. I don’t add any alcohol to this recipe, but you could mix in some vodka or bourbon for an adult twist on this drink.

Can I make a big batch for a party?

I write this recipe for one drink, so I just multiply the ingredients by however many servings I need, and mix each glass individually so the fizz doesn’t go flat. It pairs perfectly with my gluten free Thanksgiving desserts if I’m serving a crowd.

Storage Instructions

I always enjoy this drink right after I make it. I wouldn’t recommend storing leftovers, since the Sprite loses its fizz and the creamer can separate.

More Fun Drink Ideas:

• Apple Pie Tacos
• Hot Spiced Apple Cider (No Added Sugar)
• Gluten Free Apple Cookies
• Slow Cooker Orange Pomegranate Cider