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Spiced Apple Cider

This warm, fragrant apple cider is simmered with whole spices like cinnamon, cloves, and green cardamom, along with fresh apple slices to create a cozy, aromatic beverage. The simmering process infuses the cider with layered flavors, resulting in a clear, slightly cloudy drink that’s perfect for chilly evenings. It's a simple yet deeply comforting drink that fills the kitchen with inviting scents.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups apple cider, unfiltered preferably cloudy for richness
  • 3 whole cloves potent, use sparingly
  • 1 cinnamon stick cinnamon stick warm, sweet-spicy aroma
  • 3 green cardamom pods crushed slightly to release flavor
  • 1 tart apple Granny Smith or similar tart variety

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Strainer
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Peeler
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Pour the apple cider into a sturdy saucepan and place it over low heat, allowing it to warm gradually.
  2. Add the whole cloves, cinnamon stick, and crushed cardamom pods to the cider. These whole spices will infuse the drink with warm, aromatic flavors.
  3. While the cider heats, peel the tart apple and slice it into thin rounds, then gently drop the slices into the simmering cider.
  4. Increase the heat slightly and bring the cider to a gentle simmer, maintaining a temperature around 90°C (194°F). Let it simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the aroma to fill the kitchen.
  5. Once fragrant and infused, remove the saucepan from heat and strain the cider through a fine mesh strainer to remove the spices and apple slices, leaving a clear, aromatic beverage.
  6. Pour the hot spiced cider into mugs, garnishing with an extra cinnamon stick or a twist of citrus if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy the warm, layered aromas.

Notes

Adjust spice quantities to taste. For a sweeter cider, add a touch of honey or maple syrup after straining. Be sure not to over-simmer to preserve the vibrant flavors of the spices.