🇩🇪 Germany · Drinks
Apfelschorle (Apple Spritzer)
By eatmundo · July 6, 2026
Apfelschorle is Germany's unofficial national non-alcoholic drink, a refreshing blend of natural apple juice and sparkling mineral water. It's less sweet than pure juice but more flavorful than plain water, making it a perfect thirst-quencher for any time of day, beloved by both children and adults.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Begin by ensuring both your natural apple juice and sparkling mineral water are thoroughly chilled. The colder the ingredients, the more refreshing your Apfelschorle will be, especially on a warm day. This is key for the crisp, invigorating taste.
- 2
Select a tall, clean glass, ideally around 300-400ml in volume. If you prefer your drink extra cold, you may add 2-3 ice cubes to the glass before pouring the liquids. Be mindful not to overfill with ice, as it can dilute the flavor too quickly.
- 3
Pour 150-200ml of natural, unsweetened apple juice into the prepared glass. The exact amount can be adjusted based on your personal preference for sweetness and apple flavor. A good quality, cloudy apple juice works wonderfully here.
- 4
Gently add an equal amount, or slightly less, of sparkling mineral water to the glass, approximately 150-200ml. The typical ratio is 1:1, but a ratio of 2 parts apple juice to 1 part sparkling water is also common if you prefer a sweeter, stronger apple taste.
- 5
Stir the mixture gently with a long spoon once or twice. Avoid over-stirring, as this can cause the carbonation to dissipate too quickly, diminishing the refreshing fizz that makes an Apfelschorle so enjoyable.
- 6
If you wish, add a thin lemon slice to the rim of the glass or drop it directly into the drink for a subtle citrus aroma and an elegant visual touch. This adds a slight zing that complements the apple beautifully.
- 7
Serve your freshly made Apfelschorle immediately. It's best enjoyed when the fizz is at its peak and the drink is wonderfully cold, offering a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and bubbly refreshment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended ratio of apple juice to sparkling water for Apfelschorle?+
A popular ratio is 1:1, combining equal parts apple juice and sparkling water. However, you can customize it from 2:1 (juice to water) for a sweeter drink, or 1:2 for a lighter, less sweet version.
Should I use clear or cloudy apple juice for an authentic Apfelschorle?+
For an authentic taste and appearance, cloudy (Naturtrüb) apple juice is preferred as it offers a richer, more complex apple flavor. Clear apple juice can be used for a lighter, sweeter profile if desired.
What kind of sparkling water works best to maintain a good fizz in Apfelschorle?+
Opt for a well-carbonated mineral water (medium to strong effervescence) to ensure your Apfelschorle remains refreshingly fizzy. Avoid very lightly carbonated waters, as they tend to lose their bubbles quickly.
How can I mix Apfelschorle without losing too much of the sparkling water's fizz?+
To preserve the carbonation, gently combine the apple juice and sparkling water, ideally by pouring them slowly into the glass. Add ice and the lemon slice just before serving to minimize agitation.
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