šŸŽ Apple Cinnamon Kombucha (“Mock” Cider)

Published · Updated

This is one of the most popular kombucha flavors because it tastes incredibly similar to sparkling apple cider. The natural sugars in the apple create a huge amount of fizz, while the cinnamon adds a warming, spicy depth. It’s the perfect cozy probiotic drink.

  • Time: 2-4 Days
  • Yield: 1 Litre
  • Difficulty: Easy

šŸ„£ Ingredients

  • 1 Litre

    Kombucha (F1 Finished)
  • 1/4 Cup (60ml)

    Apple Juice (or chopped apple)
  • 1 Stick

    Cinnamon Bark
  • Optional

    2 Whole Cloves

āš™ļø Instructions

1

Combine Flavor

Place the cinnamon stick, cloves (if using), and apple juice into your pressure-rated bottle. Funnels help here!

2

Add Kombucha

Pour your finished plain F1 kombucha into the bottle. Leave 3-5cm of headspace at the top for gas expansion.

3

Ferment

Seal tightly. Store in a dark, warm cupboard for 2 to 4 days. Apple juice carbonates very quickly, so check it daily!

4

Refrigerate

Move to the fridge for 12 hours. This helps the carbon dioxide dissolve into the liquid, creating better bubbles.

ā“ Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use juice or fresh fruit pieces?

Juice provides more even carbonation and a cleaner drink. Fresh apple pieces taste great but can turn into “mush” inside the bottle and are harder to clean out.

Can I use powdered cinnamon?

Avoid powder if possible. It doesn’t dissolve, leaving a gritty sludge at the bottom of the bottle. Sticks or whole chips infuse flavor cleanly.

Why is it foaming over?

Apples contain a lot of sugar and natural yeast. This combination creates *a lot* of CO2. Always chill thoroughly before opening, and open slowly over a sink.

Can I add ginger?

Yes! Adding a slice of ginger creates an “Apple Ginger Zinger” flavor that is excellent for digestion.

Do I leave the cinnamon stick in?

You can leave it in while you drink it, but the flavor will get stronger (and potentially bitter) over time. We recommend serving it within a week.

Is store-bought apple juice okay?

Yes, but ensure it is 100% juice with no added preservatives (like sulphites or sorbates), as these chemicals can kill the kombucha probiotics.

How long does it last?

Once refrigerated, it lasts for months. However, the fresh apple flavor is best consumed within 2 weeks.

Is there alcohol in this?

Slightly more than plain kombucha because of the high sugar content in apples, but typically still under 1% ABV if refrigerated after 3 days.

Can I use green apples?

Yes. Green apples (Granny Smith) will give a tart, crisp flavor. Red apples will give a sweeter, more cider-like flavor.

Why did my bottle break?

Apple kombucha builds pressure very fast. If you use a decorative glass bottle (not pressure-rated) or leave it too long in a hot room, it can explode. Always test your bottles!