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Cozy Apple Cider Mimosa with Easy Cinnamon Sugar Rim

apple cider mimosa - featured image

A cozy fall twist on the classic mimosa, featuring chilled apple cider and champagne with a crackly cinnamon sugar rim. Perfect for Thanksgiving brunch, Friendsgiving, or a quiet autumn morning.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • 1 bottle (750 ml) chilled champagne or sparkling wine (brut or extra brut recommended)
  • 2 cups chilled apple cider (unfiltered preferred)
  • Ice cubes (optional)
  • Apple slices or cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your workspace: Clear your counter and gather all ingredients and equipment. Make sure champagne and apple cider are well-chilled.
  2. Make the cinnamon sugar mixture: In a small shallow dish, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Whisk with a fork until evenly combined.
  3. Prepare the rim adhesive: Pour 2 tablespoons of maple syrup (or honey) into another small shallow dish. If too thick, microwave for 5 seconds to thin slightly.
  4. Rim your glasses: Dip the rim of a chilled champagne flute into the maple syrup, rotating gently to coat. Let excess drip off, then dip into cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing lightly. Lift straight up and tap gently to remove loose crystals. Repeat for all glasses.
  5. Let the rims set: Allow rims to dry for at least 5 minutes before pouring liquids to prevent sugar from dissolving.
  6. Slice apple garnishes: Using a sharp knife, cut thin apple slices (about 1/8 inch thick). Make a small slit in each slice to perch on the rim if desired.
  7. Assemble the mimosas: Fill each rimmed glass about one-third full with chilled apple cider. Top off with champagne or sparkling wine, pouring slowly down the side to preserve bubbles. Ratio is roughly 1 part cider to 2 parts champagne, adjust to taste.
  8. Garnish and serve: Slide an apple slice onto the rim or float on top. Add a cinnamon stick for extra visual appeal. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use dry sparkling wine (brut or extra brut) to balance the sweetness of the apple cider. Let rims dry completely before pouring to prevent sugar from dissolving. Chill glasses in freezer for 10 minutes before starting for better rim adhesion and longer-lasting bubbles. Do not stir after pouring to preserve carbonation. Rims can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance; store glasses upside down on a paper towel-lined tray.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider mimosa, cinnamon sugar rim, fall cocktail, brunch drink, Thanksgiving cocktail, easy mimosa recipe, sparkling wine cocktail