November 13, 2023
Review RecipeSpiked Apple Cider
Spiked apple cider is the perfect cocktail recipe for fall and winter, combining sweet apple cider, tangy cranberries, warm spices, and robust brandy for an irresistible flavor profile.
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Experience the comforting taste of autumn in a glass with our spiked apple cider. This fall drink is a cozy blend of apple cider, aromatic spices, and a splash of brandy that will warm you from the inside out on a chilly day.
Spiked Apple Cider Ingredients
The star of our recipe, apple cider, provides a sweet and tangy base that’s enhanced by the other ingredients.
The cranberries add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cider and a beautiful pop of color.
The brandy gives our cider its “spiked” quality, adding a warm and robust flavor that complements the sweetness of the cider.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cups or 1 liter of apple cider
- ½ cup of fresh cranberries
- ½ teaspoon of ground cloves
- 5 whole allspice berries
- 3 whole star anise
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- ½ of a medium-sized orange, sliced ¼-inch thick
- 2 ounces of brandy
PRO TIP:
If you would like a family-friendly version, just omit the brandy.
Substitutions And Additions
CLOVES: Whole cloves may be used instead of ground cloves. Replace it with 3 whole cloves.
SWEETER VERSION: If you prefer a sweeter version, whisk ¼ cup of granulated sugar into the apple cider prior to heating it.
APPLE CIDER: If you can’t find apple cider, unfiltered apple juice can be a good substitute for this hot apple cider cocktail.
It has a similar sweet-tart flavor that works well in this recipe.
BRANDY: If brandy isn’t your preferred spirit, you can substitute it with rum or your favorite whiskey.
Both options will add a different but equally delicious twist to your cider.
CRANBERRIES: If fresh cranberries aren’t available, use dried cranberries in this mulled apple cider or omit them altogether.
They primarily add a tart contrast and visual appeal, but this winter drink will still be delicious without them.
How To Make This Spiked Apple Cider Recipe
Creating this spiked cider is a simple process that fills your home with the comforting aroma of warm spices. Here’s how to do it:
OUR RECIPE DEVELOPER SAYS
This also makes a wonderful air deodorizer. Leave the lid off while boiling to leave a wonderful scent in the air.
STEP ONE: In a medium saucepan, mix together the cider, cranberries, cloves, allspice berries, star anise, cinnamon sticks, and orange slices.
STEP TWO: Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat immediately to the lowest setting.
STEP THREE: Cover and cook on low for an hour, stirring every 20 mins.
STEP FOUR: Remove from heat and stir in the brandy.
STEP FIVE: Serve warm.
PRO TIP:
Serve your spiked apple cider warm, preferably in clear mugs to show off its beautiful color. You can garnish with an extra cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for an extra touch of charm.
How To Serve
Our spiked apple cider has warm, spiced flavors, making it a perfect companion for many fall and winter dishes.
Serve this warm drink alongside a hearty stew or chili. The robust flavors of these dishes pair wonderfully with the sweet and spiced notes of the cider.
For dessert, consider serving a warm mug of this perfect fall cocktail with apple pie or a caramel apple cheesecake.
As a quintessentially autumnal drink, our spiked apple cider would fit right in with the traditional Thanksgiving fare.
The warm spices in this cider are also reminiscent of traditional Christmas flavors, making it a fitting choice for the holiday season.
Our homemade apple cider is a non-alcoholic version of this tasty cocktail, while our pumpkin spice latte is another fall favorite.
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Storage
Our mulled cider is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
MAKE AHEAD: This recipe can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the cider as instructed, but don’t add the brandy.
Store the cider in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to serve, heat it up and stir in the brandy.
IN THE FRIDGE: Leftover spiked apple cider can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to store it in a covered container.
IN THE FREEZER: We don’t recommend freezing this warming drink recipe, as the texture and flavor of the cider could be affected.
REHEATING: To reheat the cider, simply pour it into a saucepan and warm it over low heat.
You can also reheat it in the microwave in a microwave-safe container. Be sure to stir it well before serving.
Why We Love This Recipe
Our spiked apple cider is a favorite for many reasons:
EASY: Despite its complex flavors, this recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal preparation and common ingredients.
FESTIVE: The warm spices and comforting flavors make this spiked apple cider a perfect drink for fall and winter celebrations.
AROMATIC: As this cider simmers on the stove, it fills your home with a delightful aroma reminiscent of cozy autumn days.
With its warm, festive spices and irresistible flavor profile, spiked apple cider is the perfect drink for any fall or winter gathering. Whether you’re a novice cook or a busy individual, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider in this easy recipe?
You can use apple juice as a substitute for apple cider. However, keep in mind that apple juice is typically sweeter and less tangy than apple cider, which may slightly alter the flavor of the drink.
Can I make this warm beverage recipe alcohol-free?
For an alcohol-free version of this fall favorite, simply omit the brandy. The cider will still be delicious with its warm spices and tangy fruit flavors.
Can I use different spices in this fresh apple cider?
Feel free to experiment with other warm spices like nutmeg or cardamom. However, the combination of cloves, allspice, star anise, and cinnamon is what gives this hard cider its classic flavor.
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Spiked Apple Cider
Spiked apple cider is the perfect cocktail recipe for fall and winter, combining sweet apple cider, tangy cranberries, warm spices, and robust brandy for an irresistible flavor profile.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 4
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider, or 1 liter
- ½ cup fresh cranberries
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 5 whole allspice berries
- 3 whole star anise
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- ½ medium sized orange, sliced ¼-inch thick
- 2 ounces brandy
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, mix together the cider, cranberries, cloves, allspice berries, star anise, cinnamon sticks, and orange slices.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat immediately to the lowest setting.
- Cover and cook on low for an hour, stirring every 20 mins.
- Remove from heat and stir in the brandy.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- If you would like a family-friendly version, just omit the brandy.
- This also makes a wonderful air deodorizer. Leave the lid off while boiling to leave a wonderful scent in the air.
- Serve your spiked apple cider warm, preferably in clear mugs to show off its beautiful color. You can garnish with an extra cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for an extra touch of charm.
Nutrition
Calories: 168kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 12mg | Potassium: 316mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 25g | Vitamin A: 64IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 67mg | Iron: 1mg
Have You Tried This Recipe?Follow me on Pinterest @spaceshipslb
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