Spiced Hot Apple Cider (Printable)

A warming blend of apple cider infused with cloves, cinnamon, and citrus-spice notes for comfort.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fruit & Juice

01 - 8 cups unfiltered apple cider
02 - 1 orange, sliced

→ Spices

03 - 8 whole cloves
04 - 2 cinnamon sticks
05 - 4 allspice berries (optional)
06 - 1 star anise (optional)
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

→ Sweetener

08 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey, to taste (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Pour apple cider into a large saucepan or pot. Add orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, allspice berries, star anise, and nutmeg.
02 - Bring mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat without boiling, then reduce heat to low.
03 - Simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the spices and citrus to infuse thoroughly.
04 - Taste and add maple syrup or honey if additional sweetness is desired, stirring to combine.
05 - Strain cider into mugs, discarding solids. Serve hot, optionally garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It transforms a simple pot into an aromatherapy session that fills your entire home with the scent of autumn in minutes.
  • This is the drink that turns an ordinary Tuesday evening into something that feels intentional and special—perfect for unexpected guests or quiet moments alone.
  • You can make a big batch and let it simmer while you go about your day, filling your kitchen with that irresistible warmth.
02 -
  • Never let this boil hard—I learned this the painful way my first attempt. A rolling boil makes the cider taste metallic and harsh. A gentle simmer is everything; it's the difference between a delightful drink and something you'll pour down the sink.
  • The magic happens during those 15 to 20 minutes of infusing. I used to think more time was better, but I discovered that past 25 minutes, the spices can start to taste too intense and slightly bitter. There's a sweet spot, and 15 to 20 minutes is it.
03 -
  • Buying your spices from a bulk section or a specialty spice shop makes a noticeable difference here. The cloves and cinnamon will be fresher, more aromatic, and your drink will taste noticeably better than if you use old spices that have been sitting in a cupboard for years.
  • Here's the secret that changed everything for me: let the spices infuse in the cider before you even heat it if you have time. Pour the cider into the pot in the morning, add all your spices, cover it, and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours or even overnight. Then when you heat it, you're starting with a flavor-packed base. It's like the difference between good and extraordinary.

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