Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups high-quality sparkling apple cider (or unfiltered apple juice)
- 1 cup non-alcoholic ginger beer (extra spicy)
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberry juice (unsweetened)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 star anise pods
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Fresh pomegranate seeds for garnish
- Orange slices
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Place the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and orange slices into a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes. This process infuses the liquid with warm, woody notes that create a “boozy” depth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let this mixture cool to room temperature or chill it in the refrigerator if you prefer a cold drink.
- Once your spiced base has cooled, strain it into a large pitcher to remove the whole spices and orange slices. Slowly pour in the chilled non-alcoholic ginger beer and the cranberry juice. Stir gently with a long spoon to combine the flavors without losing the carbonation. The ginger beer provides a sharp, spicy kick that mimics the burn of alcohol.
- Fill four glasses with ice. Pour the mocktail mixture over the ice, leaving a little room at the top. Drop a few pomegranate seeds into each glass and add a fresh orange slice. Gently slap a rosemary sprig against your hand to release its oils, then tuck it into the glass. Serve immediately while the bubbles are fresh and the aroma is at its peak.
- Cook Time: 10 minutes