Hot Apple Cider Mix
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It is always nice to have a batch of this homemade apple cider mix on hand for those times when you want a warm mug of sweet, spiced cider. It is easy to keep in the pantry, making it simple to turn plain apple cider into something that feels a little more special. It also makes a wonderful homemade gift, especially for fall and the holiday season.
You can package the mix by itself in a cute jar, or turn it into a complete gift by adding mugs and a bottle or jug of apple cider. For an extra-special touch, include cinnamon sticks, dried orange slices, fresh oranges, or even a set of coasters. It is an easy gift to put together, but it still feels thoughtful and festive.
The mix has everything you need to give regular apple cider that classic warm, cozy flavor. Sugar adds just the right sweetness, while the spice blend brings out the natural apple flavor and makes every mug taste rich and perfectly spiced.
Ingredients for Hot Apple Cider Mix
- SUGAR – Sugar sweetens the cider and helps balance the stronger spices. It also makes the mix easy to measure and dissolve into hot apple cider.
- GROUND CINNAMON – Cinnamon gives the mix its warm, classic fall flavor and pairs naturally with apples.
- GROUND CLOVES – Cloves add a deep, slightly spicy flavor. A little goes a long way, so it gives the cider that traditional mulled taste.
- GROUND ALLSPICE – Allspice adds warm notes that taste a bit like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg combined. It helps round out the spice blend.
- GROUND NUTMEG – Nutmeg adds a subtle warm, nutty flavor that makes the cider taste richer and more aromatic.
Instructions for Hot Apple Cider Mix
In a medium bowl, add the sugar, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg. Whisk everything together until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sugar.
Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or jar and store in a cool, dry place until ready to use.
To make one serving, pour 1 cup of apple cider into a microwave-safe mug and heat for about 1 minute, or until hot. Stir in 2 teaspoons of the apple cider mix in the hot water until dissolved.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick and/or an orange slice, if desired, and serve warm. Makes about 24 servings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Yes. Apple cider gives you a richer, more traditional flavor, but apple juice will also work well with the spice mix.
How long will the apple cider mix keep?
Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, it should keep well for several months. For the best flavor, use it while the spices are still fresh and fragrant.
Can I make the cider on the stovetop instead of in the microwave?
Absolutely. Heat the apple cider in a small saucepan until hot, then stir in the mix until dissolved.
Can I adjust the amount of mix per cup?
Yes. Start with 2 teaspoons per cup, then add a little more or less depending on how sweet and spiced you like your cider.
Can I make a large batch for a party?
Yes. Warm a larger amount of cider in a slow cooker or saucepan and add the mix a little at a time, tasting as you go.
Can I reduce the sugar in the mix?
You can, although the sugar helps balance the stronger spices. If you reduce it, the finished cider will taste more heavily spiced.
Does the mix need to be refrigerated?
No. As long as it stays dry and is stored in an airtight container, it can stay in the pantry.
Can I give this as a homemade gift?
Yes. Package it in a jar and include simple directions: use 2 teaspoons of mix per cup of hot apple cider.
Tips and Tricks
- Whisk the mixture really well. The spices are much lighter than the sugar and can settle unevenly, so thorough mixing helps ensure every scoop has the right balance of spice.
- Stir the mix before each use. Even after storing, the spices can settle. Give the container a quick shake or stir before measuring.
- Start with 2 teaspoons and adjust to taste. Some apple ciders are already quite sweet, so you may prefer a little less mix depending on the brand you use.
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor. Older ground spices lose their aroma over time. Fresh cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg will give the cider a much warmer, more fragrant flavor.
- Dress it up for serving. Add a cinnamon stick, orange slice, or thin apple slice to each mug for an easy festive touch.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
Hot Apple Cider Mix
Real Mom Kitchen
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 1 ½ tsp ground allspice
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
- In a bowl, add the ingredients and whisk together until combined. Store in an airtight container.
- To use: Heat one cup of apple cider in a mug for 1 minute in the microwave. Add 2 tsp of the hot apple cider to the mug and stir to combine. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and/or orange slice if desired. Makes 24 servings.
Nutrition
Recipe is adapted from Gooseberry Patch Jolly Holidays.
