Why do we need a Kid’s Choice Mocktail for our holiday celebrations? Because we want everyone to celebrate with us! Anyone who has tried to cook for a kid knows how difficult their picky palates can be. Both parents and littles alike will appreciate the familiar childhood flavors of apple cider, lemon, and cinnamon in this spirit-free mocktail. It’s a classic fall quaff that’s suitable for everyone.
Psst…For a more grown-up version, add 1.5 ounces of your favorite spirit!
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Kid’s Choice Mocktail
Description
This spirit‑free mocktail blends apple cider, lemon, and homemade cinnamon syrup for a sweet and cozy drink kids will love. Topped with sparkling soda and a cinnamon stick, it’s refreshing for all ages, with the option to add a splash of spirits for adults.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup water
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 2 oz apple cider
- 1/2 oz cinnamon syrup
- ½ oz lemon juice
- Natrona Bottling Bitter Lemon Soda, to top
Instructions
For the syrup:
- Add 1 cup brown sugar, 1 cup water and 4 cinnamon sticks broken into pieces to a small pot over medium heat and stir frequently until sugar has dissolved completely.
- Let simmer for 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat, let cool to room temperature and strain off solids.
- Bottle and refrigerate for up to 1 month.
For the cocktail:
- Add all ingredients except for bitter lemon soda to a cocktail shaker. Shake briefly to combine, about 10 seconds.
- Strain over ice into a double rocks glass and top with Natrona Bottling Bitter Lemon soda or mixer of choice. (Ginger beer or club soda would also work well here.)
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Story by Maggie Weaver
Recipes by Kaitlin Fellers
Styling by Keith Recker
Photography by Dave Bryce
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