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Cozy Sparkling Apple Cider Mimosa Bar for Fall

apple cider mimosa bar - featured image

A warm spiced apple cider mimosa bar with sparkling wine and festive garnishes, perfect for fall gatherings. This easy, customizable drink station lets guests create their own cozy cocktails.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 64 oz (1.9 liters) apple cider, unfiltered
  • 23 cinnamon sticks
  • 45 whole cloves
  • 1 star anise (optional)
  • 1 orange, sliced into rounds
  • 12 bottles (750 ml each) dry sparkling wine (Prosecco or Cava)
  • Optional: vodka or bourbon
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs
  • Thin apple slices (Honeycrisp or Fuji)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Candied ginger
  • Pomegranate seeds

Instructions

  1. Pour the apple cider into a large pot or slow cooker. Add cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise (if using), and orange slices. If using a pot, bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat (do not boil). If using a slow cooker, set to low and warm for at least 30 minutes.
  2. On a small plate, mix sugar and ground cinnamon. Wet the rim of a champagne flute or wine glass with an orange slice or water, then dip into the cinnamon sugar to coat. Repeat for all glasses.
  3. Arrange garnishes (rosemary, apple slices, candied ginger, pomegranate seeds) in small bowls. Place the cinnamon sugar plate on the bar.
  4. Chill the sparkling wine in an ice bucket or refrigerator until ready to serve.
  5. To assemble: Fill a rimmed glass about 1/3 full with warm spiced apple cider. Top with chilled sparkling wine (about 1 part cider to 2 parts wine). For a boozy version, add a splash of bourbon or vodka before the cider.
  6. Let guests add their choice of garnishes. Stir gently with a rosemary sprig to mix flavors.

Notes

Do not boil the cider as it can become bitter. Keep the sparkling wine well-chilled to maintain fizz. For a non-alcoholic version, use sparkling apple cider or ginger ale. The cider can be made a day ahead and reheated. Pre-rim glasses ahead of time for easier setup.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider mimosa, fall mimosa bar, sparkling apple cider, warm cider cocktail, fall brunch drink, easy mimosa bar, non-alcoholic mimosa, Thanksgiving drink