Fragrant Spiced Apple Cider
Make a warm, comforting, non-alcoholic beverage infused with classic mulling spices. This recipe yields a fragrant pot of cider perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Total Time: 40 min
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 gallon apple cider (store-bought is fine)
- 2 large oranges, sliced
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon whole allspice berries
- 4 whole star anise
- 1 inch fresh ginger, sliced
Instructions
- Pour the apple cider into a large stockpot or slow cooker.
- Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice berries, star anise, and sliced ginger to the liquid.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not allow it to boil vigorously, as this can dull the flavor.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let it steep for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, for maximum flavor infusion.
- Taste the cider. If you prefer a stronger spice flavor, allow it to simmer longer.
- Remove the whole spices and orange slices before serving, or strain the cider.
- Serve warm in mugs. For an adult option, you can add a shot of rum or bourbon to individual servings.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use whole spices instead of ground spices.
- If you are keeping the cider warm in a slow cooker for guests, set it to the ‘Keep Warm’ setting after the initial simmering period.
- This recipe makes a great base for a holiday cider punch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg