Warm up with the best spiced apple cider recipe! Cinnamon, cloves, and a hint of nutmeg – pure autumn comfort. 🍎🍂
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, enjoying a crisp fall day, or simply in need of a soothing treat, Spiced Apple Cider offers a heartwarming taste of autumn in every sip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spiced Apple Cider hot, ideally in a heatproof mug or a festive glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, a few whole cloves, or an apple slice for a decorative and flavorful touch. It’s perfect for sipping on a chilly evening, and makes an excellent accompaniment to fall treats like pumpkin pie, apple crisp, or a warm slice of spice cake.
For a party, keep it warm in a slow cooker and let guests serve themselves throughout the event.
Pairing Ideas
Spiced Apple Cider pairs wonderfully with a range of fall and winter dishes. It complements savory dishes such as roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or hearty stews.
For dessert pairings, it’s an excellent match for rich pastries, apple-based desserts, or cheese plates featuring sharp cheddar or creamy brie. Enjoy it alongside a selection of nuts and dried fruits for a simple yet satisfying snack.
Tips and Notes
- Apple Cider: Use fresh, high-quality apple cider for the best flavor. Avoid apple juice, as cider has a richer, more robust taste.
- Spices: Adjust the spices to your preference. Fresh cinnamon sticks and whole cloves offer the best flavor, but ground spices can be used if necessary.
- Sweetness: Taste the cider before serving and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding a bit of honey or maple syrup.
- Storage: Store leftover Spiced Apple Cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat gently before serving. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Spiced Apple Cider
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 ladle
- 4 mugs or glasses
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup rum - optional
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cloves.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Lower the heat and let the cider simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the cider from heat and remove the cinnamon sticks and cloves using a ladle or a strainer.
- Stir in the honey and optional rum, if using.
- Ladle the spiced apple cider into mugs or glasses.
- Serve hot and enjoy!