🛒 Ingredients
- 🍏 6 cups apple cider (or apple juice for a milder version)
- 🥄 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 🧄 4 whole cinnamon sticks
- 🌿 6 whole cloves
- 🌿 2 whole star anise pods (optional)
- 🍊 1 orange, sliced into rounds
- 🍎 1 apple, thinly sliced for garnish
- 🥄 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 🌱 Optional: Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
🍳 Instructions
Prepare the Cider
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, brown sugar (if using), cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, orange slices, and nutmeg. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
- Heat the Cider:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Strain and Serve
- Strain the Cider:
- After simmering, use a fine-mesh strainer to remove the spices and fruit slices.
- Serve:
- Ladle the warm spiced cider into mugs or heatproof glasses.
Garnish the Drink
- Add Garnishes:
- Garnish each mug with a slice of fresh apple, a cinnamon stick, or a sprig of fresh rosemary for a festive touch.
💡 Tips and Variations
- 🌶️ Add a Kick: For an adult version, stir in a splash of bourbon, rum, or brandy before serving.
- 🍋 Citrus Boost: Add a few slices of lemon for a tangy twist.
- 🥶 Cold Version: Chill the cider after straining and serve over ice as a refreshing spiced drink.
- 🌿 Herbal Infusion: Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary during simmering for an herbal note.
🍹 Serving Suggestions
Spiced Apple Cider pairs perfectly with cozy treats like cinnamon rolls, gingerbread cookies, or a warm slice of apple pie. Serve it at holiday gatherings, family dinners, or as a comforting drink on chilly evenings.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Spiced Apple Cider is the ultimate holiday beverage, combining the natural sweetness of apples with the warmth of spices. Its inviting aroma and cozy flavors make it the perfect drink to sip by the fire or share with loved ones during festive celebrations.
