Hot Spiced Apple Cider Recipe
Introduction
Hot Spiced Apple Cider is the perfect cozy drink to warm you up as crisp autumn days arrive. Simmered with aromatic spices and fresh orange slices, this comforting beverage fills your home with a delightful fragrance and brings the spirit of fall to your cup.
Ingredients
- 8 cups of apple cider or apple juice
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 7-8 whole cloves
- 2 whole star anises
- 1 orange, cut into thin slices
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and sliced oranges in a large saucepan.
- Step 2: Heat over medium heat for 5 minutes, then reduce to low and simmer gently for 15–20 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Step 3: Strain out the orange slices and spices once the cider is done simmering.
- Step 4: To keep the cider hot, leave it on the stove over low heat, but remove the oranges to avoid bitterness.
- Step 5: Pour into cups and garnish with additional apple slices, cinnamon sticks, or star anise as desired. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Add a splash of rum, brandy, or whiskey for a boozy twist—whiskey adds a spicy warmth while rum and brandy bring a sweeter touch.
- Use fresh apple slices in the cup to enhance presentation and add a fresh bite.
- Adjust the simmering time if you prefer a stronger or milder spice flavor.
Storage
Store any leftover cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. Avoid leaving spices or orange slices in the cider during storage to prevent bitterness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Yes, apple juice works well as a substitute if you don’t have apple cider. The flavor will be slightly sweeter and less robust but still delicious.
How do I make this drink alcoholic?
You can add alcohol such as rum, brandy, bourbon, or whiskey after the cider is done simmering. Adjust the amount to taste and stir well before serving.
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Hot Spiced Apple Cider Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Hot Spiced Apple Cider is a cozy, fragrant fall and winter beverage made by simmering apple cider with traditional mulling spices like cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and orange slices. It captures the essence of hygge by providing a warm, comforting drink with natural sweetness and inviting aromas to enjoy during chilly days.
Ingredients
Spiced Apple Cider Ingredients
- 8 cups apple cider or apple juice
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 7–8 whole cloves
- 2 whole star anise pods
- 1 orange, cut into thin slices
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the apple cider (or apple juice), cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise pods, and thinly sliced orange slices to start building your spiced cider base.
- Heat the Mixture: Heat the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the liquid to warm up and start releasing the flavors from the spices.
- Simmer for Flavor: Reduce heat to low and let the cider simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. This simmering process extracts the aromatic spices and infuses the cider with a rich, cozy flavor perfect for chilly days.
- Strain the Spices and Fruit: Once done simmering, strain out the orange slices and all the whole spices to prevent any bitterness from developing, particularly from the oranges if left too long.
- Keep Hot if Desired: If you want to enjoy the cider over time, keep it on very low heat on the stove, but be sure to keep the spices and oranges removed to maintain optimal flavor.
- Serve and Garnish: Pour the hot spiced cider into cups and garnish with fresh apple slices, a cinnamon stick, and a star anise pod for a beautiful presentation and extra aroma. Sip and enjoy the warmth and coziness!
Notes
- You can add a splash of rum, brandy, or whiskey to make this a warm alcoholic beverage; whiskey adds spiciness while rum and brandy add sweetness.
- Do not leave orange slices in the cider after cooking, as they can impart a bitter taste.
- This recipe uses no added sugar; the natural apple sweetness shines through.
- Keep the cider warm on low heat for extended serving but strain out spices and fruit.
- Great as a cozy fall or winter drink to embrace the Hygge lifestyle.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: hot spiced apple cider, mulling spices, fall drinks, cozy beverage, Hygge, cinnamon, star anise, autumn drink
