Go Back

Spiced Apple Cider

This warm beverage combines rich apple cider with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, simmered gently to develop layered flavors. Finished with a splash of citrus and natural sweeteners, it boasts a clear, inviting appearance with a fragrant aroma, perfect for cozy autumn moments.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups apple cider preferably unfiltered or pressed
  • 2 sticks cinnamon whole cinnamon sticks
  • 4 whole cloves whole cloves
  • 2 stars star anise optional, for a festive touch
  • 1/2 cup orange juice freshly squeezed or bottled
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup adjust sweetness to taste
  • 1 vanilla bean vanilla bean split lengthwise, optional

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • fine mesh sieve
  • Measuring spoons
  • Ladle or slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. Gather your ingredients and tools — a saucepan, measuring spoons, a sieve, and a ladle are your essentials.
  2. Pour the apple cider into the heavy-bottomed saucepan, setting it over medium heat.
  3. Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, and the split vanilla bean to the cider.
  4. Stir in the orange juice and honey or maple syrup, ensuring the sweetener dissolves evenly.
  5. Warm the mixture gently, bringing it to a simmer — you'll see small bubbles just starting to form around the edges, and the aroma will become fragrant.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the spices to infuse the cider.
  7. Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully strain the cider through a fine-mesh sieve into a serving bowl or pitcher, discarding the spices.
  8. Pour the hot, fragrant cider into mugs, and enjoy immediately, savoring the warm, spiced aroma.

Notes

Feel free to add a splash of bourbon or apple brandy for an adult twist. Adjust the spice quantities to suit your taste for a more or less intense flavor. Keep warm in a slow cooker or on a stovetop warmer for gatherings.