Here’s another delightful hot drink for you to enjoy! This hot apple cider recipe is far from basic—it’s infused with a blend of spices that elevate its flavor to new heights. The combination of cinnamon, cloves, and a hint of nutmeg creates a warm and inviting beverage that’s perfect for chilly days.

What makes this recipe even better is its simplicity and speed; you can whip up this spiced cider in no time and be enjoying its comforting warmth in just a few minutes. Whether you’re curling up with a book, hosting a festive gathering, or simply looking to warm up, this spiced apple cider is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients for Hot Apple Cider

APPLE CIDER
REAL MAPLE SYRUP
CINNAMON STICKS
ORANGE
LEMON
WHOLE CLOVES
WHOLE ALLSPICE BERRIES

Instructions for Easy Hot Apple Cider

In a large pot or saucepan, pour in the apple cider and add the maple syrup. Stir to combine.

Prepare the Spices:

Take a quarter of an orange and stick the whole cloves into the peel. This will help infuse the cider with a deep, aromatic flavor.
Add the clove-studded orange, cinnamon sticks, and pieces of lemon and orange to the saucepan.
For easy removal later, you can place the allspice berries in a small piece of cheesecloth and tie it up, or simply add them directly to the cider. They mostly float on top and can be easily removed with a spoon after heating.

Heat the Cider:

Heat the saucepan over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the flavors meld together beautifully.
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the cinnamon sticks, citrus pieces, and allspice berries from the hot cider. Or feel free to strain the cider.
Pour the warm, spiced cider into mugs and enjoy. This recipe makes approximately 6 servings, each about 1 cup.

This spiced hot apple cider is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your day. Enjoy every cozy sip!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
While apple juice can be used as a substitute, apple cider typically has a more robust and spiced flavor, which is ideal for this recipe. If using apple juice, consider adding a bit more spices to enhance the flavor.

Can I make this cider in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker/crock pot and cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1 hour. This method is great for keeping the cider warm during gatherings.

How can I make this recipe sugar-free?
You can omit the maple syrup or use a sugar-free alternative like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Adjust the amount to taste, keeping in mind that it might alter the final flavor slightly.

Can I prepare this cider ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cider and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving, removing the spices and citrus pieces first.

What can I use instead of whole cloves?
If you don’t have whole cloves, you can use ground cloves. Start with a small amount (about 1/4 teaspoon) and adjust to taste.

Garnishes

Adding garnishes to your Spiced Hot Apple Cider can elevate the presentation and enhance the flavor. Here are some wonderful ideas:

Cinnamon Sticks: Place a cinnamon stick in each mug for a beautiful and aromatic touch.
Orange or Lemon Slices: Float a slice of orange or lemon on top of the cider for a refreshing hint of citrus.
Star Anise: Add a whole star anise to each cup for an elegant and fragrant garnish.
Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for a rich and creamy finish.
Cranberries: Float a few fresh cranberries in each mug for a festive and colorful addition.
Clove-Studded Orange Slices: Garnish with an orange slice studded with cloves for extra aroma and visual appeal.
Nutmeg: Grate a little fresh nutmeg or ground nutmeg on top for an added layer of spice.
Apple Slices: Add a thin apple slice to each cup for a charming and edible garnish.

These garnishes not only make your cider look inviting but also add delightful flavors and aromas. Enjoy your beautifully presented hot apple cider!

FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:

Hot Apple Cider

Real Mom Kitchen

This Spiced Hot Apple Cider is a warm and comforting beverage perfect for chilly days or festive gatherings. Infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, it transforms simple apple cider into a flavorful delight. Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for cozy moments.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Course Beverages

Cuisine American

Servings servings

Calories 164 kcal

Equipment

sauce pan

Silicone Utensils

Knife Set

Ingredients

Instructions

In a large sauce pan, combine the apple cider with the maple syrup.
Stick the whole cloves into 1/4 of the orange through the peel. The add cinnamon sticks along with the lemon and orange pieces to the cider.
Next add the allspice berries. You can place them in a small piece of cheese cloth for easy removal. I just add them and remove them with a spoon after the cider is headed. They mainly stay floating on the top of the cider anyway.
Heat cider over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the cinnamon sticks, lemon and orange pieces, and the allspice berries. Serve cider in mugs. Makes 6 one cup servings.

Nutrition

Keyword apple, cider

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Recipe is a Real Mom Kitchen Original.