Apfelschorle (German Apple Spritzer)

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Apfelschorle, a refreshing mix of apple juice and sparkling water, is a popular non-alcoholic drink that has won the hearts of many, particularly in Germany and Austria. Often referred to as apple spritz or fizzy apple, Apfelschorle started its journey as a hand-mixed refreshment in German households and restaurants. It’s become a perfect thirst quencher on scorching summer days, especially for kids.

A glass of Apfelschorle on hessian fabric next to apples.

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What is Apfelschorle?

Apfelschorle is one of the most popular German non-alcoholic beverages made by mixing apple juice with sparkling water. Also known as fizzy apple or apple spritz, the refreshing drink was initially made by hand in homes and restaurants before it was introduced as a ready-to-drink bottled product in supermarkets in the late 90s.

The first pre-mixed Apfelschorle ever sold in Germany is called Apple Plus. It was introduced in 1994 by Rhön Sprudel.

Why you’ll love this recipe

2 staple ingredients only
Quick and easy
Kid-friendly

Ingredients

Apple juice – Clear apple juice is commonly used for Apfelschorle but you can also make it with cloudy juice.

Sparkling water – Sparkling or soda water (carbonated water) add some fizz to this popular drink.

Ice (optional) – Add ice cubes to keep the carbonated apple juice cool.

Lemon (optional) – A slice of lemon adds a zesty and even more refreshing note to the recipe.

How to make apple spritz

Ice: Place ice cubes in a large glass if you’d like the apple fizz to stay cool for longer.
Juice & water: Add your desired amount of apple juice with an equal or lesser amount of sparkling water. Apfelschorle typically has a minimum of 50% apple juice (1:1 ratio) but most premixed versions have around 60% apple juice content.
Stir & serve: Stir the drink, add a slice of lemon for some zest, and serve the Apfelschorle immediately.

Tips

Adjust to taste: Adjust the juice-to-water ratio depending on your preference for sweetness and fizziness.
Chill the glass: If you don’t have ice cubes on hand, simply put the glass into the freezer for a few minutes to chill it down.
Make ahead: You can make Apfelschorle ahead and store it in bottles to enjoy later.

Variations

Cloudy: Use cloudy (naturtrüb) instead of clear apple juice for a less processed drink.

Pitcher: Make a large Apfelschorle pitcher as a refreshing non-alcoholic drink for a crowd. Add ice, citrus, and herbs as extra flavorings and decor.

Slushy: Blend it up with some ice cubes to create an icy apple slushy drink.

Herbs: Add some fresh herbs such as mint or lemon balm for a herbal twist.

Spice it up: Fresh ginger slices spice up your fizzy apple.

Cool as a cucumber: A few slices of peeled cucumber add extra freshness and the flavor works well with apple.

Mimosa: Create a fizzy apple mimosa by swapping the sparkling water with your favorite sparkling wine, Champagne, or Prosecco.

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FAQ

How long can you store Apfelschorle?

Apfelschorle is best enjoyed fresh to retain its carbonation. If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it can be kept for up to 1-2 days.

Is Apfelschorle an isotonic drink?

Yes, Apfelschorle can be considered an isotonic drink. Its basic composition of apple juice mixed with sparkling water creates a beverage that is hydrating, contains sugars for energy (from the apple juice), and provides a balance of electrolytes (from the minerals in sparkling water).

Does Apfelschorle have alcohol?

No, Apfelschorle is made with apple juice and sparkling water only.

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