Fall is the season of cozy drinks and warm flavors, and what better way to enjoy the season than with a spiced apple shrub mocktail? This non-alcoholic beverage combines the richness of apples with a hint of spices and the tang of apple cider vinegar. It’s a great way to stay refreshed while enjoying the flavors of fall.
To learn more about making shrub drinks, visit this detailed guide from A Farm Girl in the Making.
What is a Shrub Mocktail?
A shrub mocktail is a vinegar-based drink that blends fruits, spices, and sugar to create a sweet, tart, and tangy flavor. The base ingredient is usually apple cider vinegar, which adds a refreshing twist. Shrubs have been around for centuries, originally used as a way to preserve fruits, but today they are making a comeback as a trendy base for both cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks.
In the case of the spiced apple shrub, apples add a fruity note while spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves give it a warm, comforting taste. To explore other ways to make this unique beverage, check out a recipe from Heartbeet Kitchen.
Why Choose Spiced Apple Shrub Mocktail?
The spiced apple shrub mocktail is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a healthy and refreshing beverage with a seasonal twist. Here are some reasons why it should be part of your drink rotation:
- Apple cider vinegar: This key ingredient helps balance the sweetness and tartness of the drink, while also offering digestive health benefits.
- Spices: Warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and star anise make this mocktail perfect for colder months, filling your drink with comforting aromas and flavors.
- Versatile: It’s a great drink on its own or mixed with soda or sparkling water for a bubbly twist. Plus, you can even use it as a base for cocktails if you prefer.
Now that we know what a shrub mocktail is and why it’s great, let’s dive into the key ingredients.
Key Ingredients for Spiced Apple Shrub Mocktail
Apples: The Core of the Drink
The first ingredient you’ll need for your spiced apple shrub is, of course, apples. The variety of apples you choose plays a major role in the drink’s overall flavor. Here’s a breakdown:
- Tart apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn offer a crisp, tangy flavor that balances well with the sweetness of sugar and the acidity of vinegar.
- Sweet apples like Fuji or Gala bring a gentler sweetness to the drink, making it less sour.
The apples provide the necessary base and juice for the shrub. Pair them with the right spices and vinegar, and you’ve got yourself a delicious drink.
Spices: Adding Warmth and Depth
A major draw of the spiced apple shrub mocktail is the blend of spices used to enhance its flavor. These spices make the drink feel cozy and comforting:
- Cinnamon: Adds a sweet, woody flavor that’s synonymous with fall.
- Cloves and star anise: Offer a warm, aromatic kick that pairs beautifully with the apple’s crispness.
- Ginger: A hint of spiciness that gives the shrub an extra layer of depth.
These spices infuse the vinegar, creating a rich and flavorful base for your mocktail.
Vinegar: The Secret Ingredient
The key ingredient in any shrub drink is vinegar, and in this case, apple cider vinegar is preferred. Not only does it provide the tang that defines the drink, but it also offers a range of health benefits, including aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
- Apple cider vinegar is a popular choice due to its health benefits and ability to balance sweetness and acidity.
Together, these ingredients create a complex, flavorful drink that’s perfect for fall.
How to Make Spiced Apple Shrub
Making your spiced apple shrub is easier than you might think! Here’s a simple guide to get you started:
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by washing, peeling, and coring your apples. Chop them into small pieces to release their juices. For a more rustic drink, you can also mash the apples slightly before placing them in a jar.
Step 2: Add Spices and Vinegar
- In a large jar, add the apples along with your chosen spices. Common spices include cinnamon sticks, star anise, whole cloves, and ginger.
- Add sugar (brown sugar or maple syrup works well) to sweeten the mixture.
- Pour in apple cider vinegar, covering the apple and spice mixture completely.
Step 3: Let It Infuse
Seal the jar tightly and place it in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 days. Shake the jar once or twice each day to mix the ingredients. The longer you let it sit, the more flavorful it will become.
After the infusion period, strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids. Store the finished shrub in a bottle or jar, and it’s ready to use!
How to Mix Spiced Apple Shrub Mocktails
Now that your spiced apple shrub is ready, you can start mixing it into delicious mocktails.
Basic Mocktail Recipe
To make a basic mocktail:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of spiced apple shrub with your choice of sparkling water, soda, or ginger beer.
- Add ice cubes and stir gently.
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more shrub or even a splash of lemon juice for added freshness.
Creative Mocktail Ideas
- Apple Shrub Mule: Combine the shrub with ginger beer for a fizzy, spicy drink that’s perfect for fall.
- Apple Shrub Fizz: Mix the shrub with sparkling water and a squeeze of lime for a light, refreshing drink.
These drinks can be garnished with cinnamon sticks or apple slices to enhance their visual appeal.
FAQs About Spiced Apple Shrub Mocktails
Can I Make Spiced Apple Shrub Without Sugar?
Yes, you can use alternatives like honey, stevia, or maple syrup for a different flavor profile or a lower-calorie version of the shrub.
How Long Does the Shrub Last?
When properly stored in the refrigerator, a spiced apple shrub can last up to 6 months. Be sure to shake it before each use.
Can I Use This for Cocktails?
Absolutely! You can add bourbon, rum, or vodka to your spiced apple shrub for a delicious fall cocktail. It pairs wonderfully with whiskey for a warming drink.
Can I Freeze Spiced Apple Shrub?
Yes, you can freeze it in ice cube trays for easy use later. Just thaw the cubes before mixing them into your drinks.
Is Spiced Apple Shrub Healthy?
Yes! The combination of apple cider vinegar and spices like cinnamon and ginger provides a range of health benefits, including promoting digestion and reducing inflammation.
Conclusion
The spiced apple shrub mocktail is the perfect drink for the fall season. With its warm spices, tart apples, and apple cider vinegar, this beverage brings together comforting flavors while offering a healthy, non-alcoholic alternative to traditional fall drinks. Whether you’re sipping it on a cozy evening or serving it at a gathering, this drink is sure to impress.
For more shrub recipes and drink ideas, check out A Farm Girl in the Making for inspiration and tips.