Sparkling Apple Cider Slushies

As you know, this week I’m embarking on all sorts of childlike behavior at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Walt Disney World. All of my excitement has made me nostalgic for the things that made me happy when I was a little girl, and with Fall in full swing, I’ve been thinking a lot about a drink I used to have every year when my family went apple picking.

I haven’t thought about it in years and years, but I remember apple cider slushies being one of my very favorite Fall treats when I was a kid. When they came to mind a few weeks ago, I had to attempt to recreate them. I am soooo glad that I did, because they are just as wonderful as I remember them!

This will be the easiest Fall treat you make this year, and it’s so yummy that if you only get to make one treat for the season, it’s gotta be this.

The key to this drink is freezing the cider on its own. I’ve found that this is the easiest method for making slushy drinks quickly and easily.

Carefully pour the apple cider into a large gallon zip top bag, seal, and place in the freezer for several hours, until frozen or very thick and icy. If the cider is frozen solid, allow to melt until it can be broken up into a thick, icy consistency (you want to be able to squish it around in the bag a bit with your hands).

Now, to break up the frozen bits, you just stir in a chilled beverage of your choice. I prefer sparkling cider (for all ages) or champagne (for adults only), but it’s also excellent with plain apple juice.

Aside from being seriously delicious, I love that this drink is completely natural and has no added sugar or other ingredients. When made with apple cider and sparkling cider (or another fruit juice), it’s sugar free and great for kids’ parties.

If you’re looking for an easy to make, fun drink that everyone will enjoy, then you can’t go wrong with this. Kids love the stuff, and it’s the drink every adult doesn’t even know they’re waiting for.

Enjoy!

Sparkling Apple Cider Slushies
Makes about 11 cups (can easily be cut in half)

Ingredients

1 bottle (24.5 ounces) sparkling cider*
1 gallon (64 ounces) apple cider

Place the sparkling cider in the refrigerator to chill.

Carefully pour the apple cider into a large gallon zip top bag, seal, and place in the freezer for several hours, until frozen or very thick and icy. If the cider is frozen solid, allow to melt until it can be broken up into a thick, icy consistency (you want to be able to squish it around in the bag a bit with your hands).

Transfer the frozen cider to a large punch bowl and pour the chilled sparkling cider over it, stirring to break up any big pieces. Serve immediately.

*Substitute with champagne for an adults only version. If you don’t want sparkling slushies, use plain apple juice. You could also use a clear soda, such as Sprite, or use half frozen and half chilled apple cider.

Recipe by Darla