If you’re like me, you love fall flavors—but sometimes it’s too warm outside for hot drinks.
That’s where this Apple Cider Cold Brew comes in. It’s a little cozy, a little refreshing, and packed with that cinnamon-spice-meets-coffee vibe.
I first tried this mix on a sunny October afternoon, and it instantly became a favorite.
Smooth cold brew + spiced cider = the best of both worlds.
Perfect for brunch, afternoon pick-me-ups, or when you’re craving fall flavors but still wearing short sleeves.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cold brew coffee (unsweetened, chilled)
- ¾ cup apple cider (fresh, unfiltered preferred)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Thin apple slice and cinnamon stick, for garnish (optional)
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe reminds me of grabbing coffee with friends on crisp fall afternoons—except you can make it at home in 5 minutes.
- Smooth cold brew + sweet apple cider = super balanced flavors
- Customizable: adjust the sweetness or spices your way
- No fancy tools needed, just stir and enjoy
- Tastes like a cozy coffee shop drink but costs a lot less
- Perfect for fall but honestly delicious any time of year
Makes: 1 serving
Total Time: 5 minutes
Macros (Approximate per serving):
- Calories: 90 (without maple syrup) / 130 (with maple syrup)
- Protein: 0 g
- Carbs: 22 g (without maple syrup) / 32 g (with maple syrup)
- Fat: 0 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sugar: 19 g (from cider and optional maple syrup)
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Cold Brew: Cold brew coffee is lower in acidity and smoother than hot-brewed coffee, so it plays really well with sweeter apple cider.
- Apple Cider: Apple cider’s natural sugars and acidity balance out the bitterness of coffee without needing too much extra sweetener.
- Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These warm spices boost the cozy vibes and complement both the apple and coffee flavors.
- Temperature Contrast: Chilling both liquids before mixing keeps your drink crisp and refreshing, without watered-down flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using hot coffee: This will melt your ice and make the drink bitter and watery.
- Skipping the stir: Apple cider and cold brew will layer unless stirred, making the first sip super strong and the last too sweet.
- Using apple juice instead of cider: Apple juice is too sweet and lacks that rich, spiced flavor cider brings.
What to Serve With This Drink
- Warm cinnamon rolls or scones
- Breakfast sandwiches
- Pumpkin muffins
- Apple fritters
- Toast with almond butter and honey
Tools You’ll Need
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tall glass
- Long-handled spoon or stirring stick
- Knife and cutting board (for apple garnish, optional)
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap maple syrup with honey or agave
- Use chai concentrate instead of apple cider for a spiced twist
- Add a splash of oat milk or almond milk for creaminess
- Use pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon and nutmeg
- Garnish with star anise for a holiday look
Make-Ahead Tips
You can pre-mix the cold brew, cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup in a jar and chill it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good shake before serving over ice.
Full Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Fill Your Glass with Ice
Fill your glass about ¾ full with ice cubes. This keeps the drink cold and refreshing.
Step 2: Pour in the Cold Brew
Pour 1 cup of chilled cold brew coffee over the ice. You’ll see the rich, dark coffee slowly filling the glass.
Step 3: Add the Apple Cider
Pour ¾ cup of fresh apple cider over the cold brew. Watch how the golden cider mixes with the coffee—so satisfying!
Step 4: Sprinkle in Cinnamon and Nutmeg
Sprinkle ½ teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg on top. You’ll see the spices floating gently on the surface.
Step 5: Add Maple Syrup (Optional)
Add 1 tablespoon maple syrup if you like your drink sweeter. The syrup sinks slowly to the bottom—so pretty.
Step 6: Stir It Up
Use a long-handled spoon to stir everything together really well so the flavors blend perfectly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Add a thin apple slice and a cinnamon stick for garnish, if you’re feeling fancy. Now it’s ready to sip!
Pro Tips
- Chill your cold brew and cider before mixing for max refreshment.
- Stir gently but thoroughly so your spices don’t just sit on top.
- If making for a crowd, mix in a large pitcher but add ice right before serving.
- Use fresh, local cider if possible—it’s less sweet and more flavorful than store-bought.
- Adjust the maple syrup to your sweetness level, or skip it entirely.
Leftovers and Storage
If you make a bigger batch, store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir before serving and pour over fresh ice.
FAQ
Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of cold brew?
You can, but cold brew is smoother and less bitter. If using hot coffee, cool it completely first.
What kind of apple cider works best?
Fresh, unfiltered cider from the farmer’s market or grocery store refrigerated section works best. Apple juice is too sweet.
Can I make this decaf?
Absolutely! Just use decaf cold brew.
Is this drink vegan?
Yes, if you use maple syrup or a plant-based sweetener.
Conclusion
This Apple Cider Cold Brew is one of those drinks that makes you pause and smile with the first sip. It’s cozy, cool, and just different enough to feel special. I’d love to hear how yours turns out—leave a comment below with your thoughts, your own twist on the recipe, or any questions you have! Happy sipping!
