Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, and star anise. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Do not boil.
Step 2: Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it gently infuse for 5 minutes. This allows the spices to release their aromatic flavors into the cider. For a stronger spice flavor, you can let it infuse longer off the heat.
Step 3: Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully strain the spiced cider through a fine-mesh strainer into a heatproof pitcher or jar. Discard the cinnamon sticks and star anise. Let the spiced cider cool completely. You can speed this up by placing the pitcher in an ice bath or refrigerating it once it’s no longer hot.
Step 4: Once the spiced cider is chilled, stir in the fresh lemon juice and maple syrup or honey (if using). Taste and adjust sweetness and tartness to your preference. This forms the base for your easy apple mocktail.
Step 5: To assemble each easy apple mocktail, fill a glass with ice cubes. Pour about 3/4 cup (180ml) of the chilled spiced apple cider base into each glass.
Step 6: Top each glass with about 1/2 cup (120ml) of sparkling water, club soda, or ginger ale. Stir gently to combine.
Step 7: Garnish each easy apple mocktail with thin apple slices, a fresh cinnamon stick, a sprig of rosemary, or a few cranberries for a festive touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your perfectly refreshing easy apple mocktail!