I make the coziest cinnamon-spiced hot apple cider by simmering unfiltered apple juice with cinnamon sticks, star anise, nutmeg and vanilla extract for 20-30 minutes.
Add sliced apples for extra flavor, and a splash of bourbon if you’re feeling adventurous!
Pre-warm your mugs with hot water to keep your drink steaming longer.
For an exciting twist, try adding orange slices or swapping in cranberry juice.
Let’s explore some more magical variations to warm your soul!
Ingredients
- Unfiltered apple juice or apple cider
- Cinnamon sticks
- Star anise
- Nutmeg
- Vanilla extract
- Apples
- Bourbon or apple brandy (optional)
Spiced hot apple cider is a surprisingly delicious drink that warms you up on a chilly day.
Recommended Tools
Making hot apple cider is simple and satisfying with the right tools on hand. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just craving something warm on a chilly evening, these kitchen essentials will help you brew up the perfect batch of cinnamon-spiced goodness without any fuss.
- Large Pot:
A roomy pot gives your cider ingredients space to mingle and develop flavors during the simmering process.
- Wooden Spoon:
Perfect for gently stirring your cider mixture without scratching your pot or transferring unwanted flavors.
- Ladle:
Makes serving hot cider into mugs clean and splatter-free, especially when you want to include those delicious apple slices.
- Microplane Grater:
Essential for freshly grating whole nutmeg which gives a much more vibrant flavor than pre-ground versions.
- Chef’s Knife:
Helps you slice those apples cleanly for both infusing flavor and making gorgeous garnishes for your mugs.
- Heat-Resistant Mugs:
Proper mugs will keep your cider warm longer and provide a comfortable way to enjoy this delicious seasonal treat.
Using meal prep containers can also help organize and store any leftover cider for future enjoyment.</p
Instructions for Cinnamon-Spiced Hot Apple Cider
Ready to warm up with a delicious seasonal treat? Let’s make this cozy cinnamon-spiced hot apple cider together!
Start by grabbing a large pot and combining 2 quarts of unfiltered apple juice or apple cider with 2 cinnamon sticks and 4 star anise. These aromatic spices will fill your kitchen with the most amazing fall scent!
Add 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that extra flavor boost. Don’t forget to toss in 2 sliced apples – they’ll soak up all those wonderful spices!
Now, heat everything over medium-low heat. This is important – don’t let your cider boil vigorously! A gentle simmer is all you need to preserve those delicate flavors.
Let it simmer uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, allowing all those wonderful spices to infuse into the cider.
When you’re ready to serve, grab your favorite mugs and ladle in the hot cider. Fish out those cooked apple slices to use as a tasty garnish, or add a cinnamon stick for both decoration and as a fun stirrer!
Want to make it adult-friendly? Go ahead and add 1 ounce of bourbon or apple brandy to each serving for a delightful kick. It’s totally optional but definitely worth trying on a chilly evening!
Serve while it’s still warm, and get ready for compliments! This cider is perfect for holiday gatherings or just cozying up on the couch. Enjoy! Additionally, pairing it with a colorful lentil salad can create a vibrant and refreshing meal to complement your cozy drink.
Pro Tips
Pre-warm your mugs by filling them with hot water for a minute before emptying and adding your hot apple cider to keep your drink steaming hot longer when served.
This simple step prevents the quick cooling that happens when hot liquid meets cold ceramic and ensures every sip remains deliciously warm. Additionally, serving your cider alongside a creamy soup can enhance the overall comfort of your meal.</p
Substitutions & Variations
A few creative twists to this classic winter warmer can transform the flavor profile while maintaining its comforting essence.
- Citrus Infusion: Add orange and lemon slices to the simmering pot for a bright tangy note that balances the sweetness of the apple cider.
- Cranberry Blend: Replace one-fourth of the apple cider with cranberry juice for a tart ruby-hued variation perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Maple-Ginger: Substitute the vanilla extract with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and add 1-inch fresh ginger sliced into coins for a warming spicy-sweet profile.
- Cardamom-Clove: Add 4 crushed cardamom pods and 6 whole cloves to the spice mixture for a more complex aromatic experience.
- Herbal Touch: Float a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme in the simmering cider to introduce subtle earthy notes that complement the fruit and spices.
- Non-Alcoholic Mocktail: Skip the bourbon but add a splash of ginger beer when serving for a fizzy festive drink that everyone can enjoy.
- Pumpkin Spice Addition: For a seasonal twist, incorporate a touch of creamy pumpkin soup to bring a rich and comforting depth to the flavor profile.
Leftovers & Storage Tips
Though you mightn’t finish every drop of this aromatic cider in one gathering, don’t worry about wasting a single delicious sip!
Let your leftover cider cool completely, then store it in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
When you’re ready for more, simply reheat it gently on the stove. The flavors might even intensify overnight!
Mulled Autumn Perfection
Cinnamon-Spiced Hot Apple Cider
A warming autumn beverage featuring apple cider infused with aromatic spices and fresh apples.
- 2 quarts unfiltered apple juice or apple cider
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 star anise
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 apples, sliced
- Optional: 1 ounce bourbon or apple brandy per serving
- In a large pot, combine apple juice, cinnamon sticks, star anise, nutmeg, vanilla, and sliced apples.
- Heat over medium-low, simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes.
- Ladle into mugs; garnish with cooked apple slices or a cinnamon stick.
- Add bourbon if desired.
