Warm, cozy, and full of fall flavor, this Hot Spiced Apple Cider is made with real apple cider, cinnamon sticks, and a touch of citrus. It’s the perfect drink for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or Thanksgiving dinner.
Tested twice: the best depth comes from simmering the cider with whole spices for 25 minutes — not boiling — to preserve that natural apple sweetness.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Apple cider (unfiltered preferred) | 6 cups (1.4 L) |
| Cinnamon sticks | 3–4 |
| Whole cloves | 4 |
| Allspice berries | 2–3 or ½ tsp ground allspice |
| Orange peel (zest strips) | from 1 orange |
| Orange slices (optional, for serving) | 3–4 |
| Fresh nutmeg | ½ tsp grated |
| Maple syrup or brown sugar | 1–2 tbsp, to taste |
| Vanilla bean (split) or vanilla extract | 1 bean or ½ tsp extract |
| Fresh apple slices or cinnamon sticks | for garnish |
Swaps & Notes
| Need | Swap | Note |
|---|---|---|
| No orange | Use lemon peel | Keeps flavor bright |
| Sugar-free | Skip syrup or use monk fruit syrup | Adjust to taste |
| No vanilla bean | Add ½ tsp extract after simmering | Keeps flavor smooth |
| Extra spice | Add 1 star anise or ½ inch fresh ginger | For bolder flavor |
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Simmer the base:
Add apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, orange peel, and nutmeg to a large pot. - Heat gently:
Bring just below a boil, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes to let the spices infuse. - Sweeten and finish:
Stir in maple syrup (or brown sugar) to taste. Add vanilla extract if using. Strain to remove solids. - Serve:
Pour into mugs and garnish with apple slices, cinnamon sticks, or orange rounds.
Tested note: 25 minutes gives the perfect spice balance — longer simmering makes it too strong.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Keep warm in a slow cooker on “Low” for up to 4 hours — perfect for parties.
- Make ahead: Cool completely, refrigerate up to 3 days, and reheat gently.
- Add fresh ginger or star anise for extra warmth.
- For kids: Add a swirl of whipped cream or a cinnamon sugar rim.
- For gatherings: Serve from a ladle in a clear heat-safe dispenser for a festive look.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm in mugs with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.
- Pair with pumpkin bread, coffee cake, or roasted nuts.
- Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or cozy movie nights.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store up to 3 days in a sealed jar or pitcher.
- Reheat: Warm gently over low heat or in a slow cooker (avoid boiling).
- Do not freeze: Freezing dulls the spices and alters texture.
Food safety: Keep below 40°F (4°C) and discard after 3 days.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes — combine all ingredients and cook on “Low” for 4–6 hours, then strain.
Q2: Can I use apple juice instead of cider?
You can, but cider gives a deeper, more natural apple flavor.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Simmer, cool, and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 85; Carbs: 22g; Sugar: 20g; Protein: 0g; Fat: 0g