Making spiced hot cider is a wonderful way to enjoy a warm, aromatic beverage, especially during the colder months. Here’s a classic recipe for spiced hot cider, complete with step-by-step instructions.
Spiced Hot Cider Recipe
Ingredients:
- Apple Cider:
- 1 gallon (16 cups) apple cider (not apple juice)
- Spices:
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon whole allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg or 1 whole nutmeg
- 1 star anise (optional, for additional flavor)
- Citrus:
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced (optional, for a tangy twist)
- Sweetener (optional):
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
- Garnish:
- Additional cinnamon sticks
- Orange slices
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spices:
- If you have a spice bag or cheesecloth, place the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, whole allspice, peppercorns, and star anise inside and tie it up. This makes it easier to remove the spices later. If you don’t have a spice bag, you can add the spices directly to the pot, but you’ll need to strain them out before serving.
- Heat the Cider:
- Pour the apple cider into a large pot or slow cooker.
- Add the spice bag or loose spices to the cider.
- Add Citrus:
- Add the orange and lemon slices to the cider.
- Sweeten (Optional):
- If you prefer a sweeter cider, add the brown sugar or honey to the pot. Stir to dissolve.
- Simmer the Cider:
- Heat the cider over medium heat until it starts to steam. Do not let it boil.
- Once steaming, reduce the heat to low and let the cider simmer gently for at least 30 minutes. For a stronger flavor, you can let it simmer for up to 2 hours. If using a slow cooker, set it to low and let the cider simmer for 2-4 hours.
- Strain the Cider:
- If you added the spices directly to the pot, strain the cider through a fine mesh sieve to remove them before serving. If you used a spice bag, simply remove the bag.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot cider into mugs.
- Garnish with additional cinnamon sticks and orange slices, if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the spiced hot cider warm and enjoy the delightful aroma and flavor.
Tips:
- Storage: Leftover cider can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Alcoholic Version: For a spiked version, add a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy to each mug before serving.
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Add a few slices of fresh ginger for a zingy kick or a few cranberries for a festive touch.
Enjoy your warm, cozy spiced hot cider!
This spiced hot cider is perfect for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home. The fragrant spices combined with the sweet-tart flavor of the cider create a wonderfully comforting beverage.
