Hot Apple Cider

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hot Apple Cider is incredibly easy to make and naturally sweetened with apple juice or fresh cider. It’s rich, fragrant, and customizable—perfect for both adults and kids. You can make it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, and it can easily be doubled for a crowd. It’s the kind of drink that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia to any chilly day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Apple cider or unsweetened apple juice
• Cinnamon sticks
• Whole cloves
• Star anise (optional)
• Orange slices or peel
• Nutmeg (freshly grated or ground)
• Brown sugar or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)

Directions

1. Pour the apple cider or juice into a large pot or slow cooker.
2. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise (if using), orange slices, and nutmeg.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Taste and add brown sugar or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter cider.
6. Strain the cider to remove spices and orange slices.
7. Serve warm in mugs, optionally garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange wedge.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spiked Cider: Add a splash of bourbon, rum, or brandy for an adult-friendly version.
• Cranberry Apple Cider: Add a cup of cranberry juice for a tangy twist.
• Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2–3 hours.
• Mulled Spice Mix: Add a few cardamom pods or allspice berries for deeper flavor.
• Caramel Apple Cider: Stir in a spoonful of caramel sauce before serving for a dessert-like treat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warm. Avoid boiling, as it can make the cider overly sweet and reduce its fresh flavor. You can also freeze it in portions and thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes, apple juice works fine—just make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugar for the best flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare it a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat before serving.

What’s the difference between apple cider and apple juice?

Apple cider is usually unfiltered and has a richer, more robust apple flavor compared to clear apple juice.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 2–3 hours to let the spices infuse deeply.

How do I make it less sweet?

Use unsweetened apple juice or skip the added sugar and sweeteners.

Can I reuse the spices?

You can reuse cinnamon sticks and cloves once if stored properly, though they’ll be less potent.

Can I serve it cold?

Yes, chill the cider after simmering and serve it over ice for a refreshing spiced apple drink.

How can I make it more aromatic?

Add a few slices of fresh ginger or a vanilla bean to enhance the aroma and flavor.

Is this drink vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan. Just avoid using honey if you’re keeping it strictly plant-based.

Can I make a large batch for parties?

Definitely. Double or triple the recipe and keep it warm in a slow cooker for serving.

Conclusion

Hot Apple Cider is the essence of comfort in a cup—fragrant, flavorful, and full of seasonal charm. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply winding down on a chilly evening, this drink delivers warmth and joy with every sip. Once you’ve made it from scratch, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought cider again.

Hot Apple Cider

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A warm, spiced Hot Apple Cider made with apple cider, cinnamon, cloves, orange, and nutmeg. This cozy beverage fills your home with the aroma of fall and is perfect for chilly evenings, holidays, or family gatherings.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop or Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

• 6 cups apple cider or unsweetened apple juice
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 6 whole cloves
• 2 star anise (optional)
• 1 orange, sliced or peel only
• 1/4 teaspoon ground or freshly grated nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup (optional, to taste)

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Instructions

1. Pour the apple cider or juice into a large pot or slow cooker.
2. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise (if using), orange slices, and nutmeg.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
5. Taste and add brown sugar or maple syrup if desired for extra sweetness.
6. Strain the cider to remove spices and orange slices.
7. Serve warm in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange wedge if desired.

Notes

• For a spiked version, add a splash of bourbon, rum, or before serving.
• Use unsweetened apple juice if you prefer a less sweet cider.
• Make it in a slow cooker for easy entertaining—cook on low for 2–3 hours.
• Add fresh ginger or a vanilla bean for enhanced flavor and aroma.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat gently.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 10mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg