Comfort and Joy Mocktail

Name: Comfort and Joy Mocktail
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unfiltered mulled apple cider; 3 tablespoons (1½ oz.) nonalcoholic whiskey alternative (such as Ritual Zero Proof); 2 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon); Ice (optional); Cinnamon stick or lemon wheel

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This cider-based mocktail is perfect for the holidays.

By

Chris Marshall

Published on November 8, 2021

Comfort and Joy Mocktail — Photo: Greg DuPree; Food Styling: Margaret Monroe Dickey; Prop Styling: Kay E. Clarke

Total Time:

5 mins

Servings:

1

Unlike most mixologists, Austin bar owner Chris Marshall doesn't drink alcohol. But that doesn't mean he can't enjoy a great drink. "I always found that if you had something interesting in your glass, it took a lot of the pressure off at social events," he says. Everyone at the holiday party will love Marshall's zero-proof cocktails, like this Comfort and Joy Mocktail.

Forget the spiked cider—this year, we're opting for something a touch more elegant. This mocktail mimics the warmth of a classic whiskey drink—hold the booze. With apple cider and non-alcoholic whiskey (like Ritual Zero Proof), this festive drink really channels the spirit of the season. Lightly sweetened with honey or maple syrup and brightened up with a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, this non-alcoholic drink simply brims with comfort and joy—hence the name. Since it does not contain any alcohol, this drink is extra-versatile: You can serve this fun mocktail warm or cold.

Ingredients

1 cup unfiltered mulled apple cider
3 tablespoons (1½ oz.) nonalcoholic whiskey alternative (such as Ritual Zero Proof)
2 tablespoons honey or pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
Ice (optional)
Cinnamon stick or lemon wheel

Directions

To serve chilled: Combine cider, nonalcoholic whiskey, honey, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice; shake vigorously until chilled, 30 seconds. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice; garnish with cinnamon stick or lemon wheel.
To serve warm: Heat cider and honey in a small sauce-pan over medium-high until gently simmering, stirring occasionally, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice and nonalcoholic whiskey. Transfer to a mug. Garnish with cinnamon stick or lemon wheel.