I don’t drink for religious reasons. But I like the idea of something bubbly, fancy, and classy, (so of course cola didn’t make the cut). Iced teas, like my peach iced tea and other low-cal drinks, are my faaaaavorite guilty pleasure! So naturally I was intrigued, nay, OBSSESSED with Saudi Champagne the moment I had it and naturally the next step in my obsession was recreating it at home (and nitpicking all possible soda-to-apple-juice ratio because that’s just who I am).
What is Saudi Champagne
Saudi Champagne is a “mock champagne” or a non-alcoholic beverage invented in the lands of Saudi Arabia where alcohol is not consumed on religious grounds. It’s a Muslim’s answer to alcoholic drinks. But really, anyone abstaining from alcohol (or not) is going to enjoy this recipe! The popular Saudi Champagne is made primarily with apple juice and sparkling water. It is usually served in Arabian, Turkish and Lebanese restaurants across Saudi Arabia. The first time I had it, was back in 2016, when I had first moved to Jeddah. I was INSTANTLY taken by it and ever since then, it has become my go-to drink to order in restaurants. My close second favorite has to be the apple-cinnamon latte that I had at a Turkish food stall.
Notes on Ingredients
The ingredients in this fake champagne are super simple and easily modifiable.
Apple Juice – You can use store-bought or homemade juice. Just make sure the juice is pulp-free to give you that clear champagne look. Sparkling Water – The original recipe uses sparkling water like Perrier, Aquafina, etc. But if you like your drinks on the sweeter side, you can also use fizzy drinks like 7up or Sprite. Or do a combo of sparkling water and a fizzy drink. Ice – I love love love using itty bitty ice cubes and fancy-shaped ice cubes in my drinks. But I’d definitely recommend adding some no matter what shape you have at hand. It’ll keep your drink cooler for longer even if it sits out in the heat. Infusions – This right here is what fuels the flavor train in this recipe. You’ve got sliced apples, sliced oranges, mint leaves, and a little bit of lemon juice. All these together, add flavor and gorgeousness to your champagne
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities
How to assemble the Champagne
This is the kind of recipe that takes you 5 minutes and zero expertise to put together.
ProTips
Use chilled ingredients for this recipe to avoid the ice from melting instantly. Make the garnish and apple juice mix in advance and refrigerate. Add the sparkling water when serving. This will intensify all the flavors. Always use fresh mint leaves for drinks Use a pitcher with a lid if you want to avoid all the infusions from getting into the glasses.
How to Serve
Mint leaves: Float 1 or 2 mint leaves at the bottom of the glass or add an orange wedge on the rim of the glass. Sugared glass rim: This isn’t a typical presentation for Saudi Champagne, but hey! What’s wrong with feeling a little extra? Wet the rim of your glass with an orange slice and then dip it in fine sugar. Serving glass: For those authentic feels, use a champagne flute.
More Drink Recipes for you to try
Do you have any questions? I’m happy to help! And of course, If you try this recipe, I’d loveeeee to see it or simply hear about it! Hit me up in the comment section below and I’ll get back to asap! Happy Cooking!
