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Warm apple cider is the ultimate cold-weather beverage made with apples, oranges, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and maple syrup. This easy-to-make spiced cider recipe is a comforting drink that the whole family can enjoy!
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Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Why You’ll Love Making It
- Cozy & Comforting: There’s nothing like a warm mug of homemade apple cider to bring that cozy fall feeling to your home. The natural sweetness of apples and warm spices create the perfect balance of flavors.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep—simply slice, simmer, and strain. No fancy equipment needed!
- Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your liking or even add a splash of bourbon for a festive adult version.
- Great for Gatherings: Whether you’re making it for a family night, holiday party, or a chilly afternoon, this cider will be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 10 large apples – A mix of apple varieties enhances the depth of flavor. I used 4 Honeycrisp (sweet and juicy), 4 Gala (mild and crisp), and 2 Granny Smith (tart for balance). You can use your favorite apples.
- 2 oranges – Adds a touch of citrusy brightness. Use navel or any seedless variety.
- 16 cups water – Helps extract the flavors from the fruit and spices while keeping the cider smooth.
- ¼ cup light brown sugar (or dark brown sugar, optional) – Adds a touch of molasses-like richness, enhancing the warm spice notes.
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup (optional) – A natural sweetener that deepens the flavor and complements the apples beautifully.
- 6 cinnamon sticks – Whole cinnamon sticks provide a deep, warm flavor that defines classic apple cider.
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves – Adds an aromatic spice kick that enhances the depth of flavor.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (optional) – Rounds out the flavors with a subtle, sweet warmth.
- Apple slices & cinnamon sticks – A beautiful and fragrant garnish for presentation.
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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Wash the apples and oranges thoroughly under running water. Slice them into quarters—no need to peel or core them since they will be strained out later.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Pot
Place the quartered apples and oranges into a 7-quart Dutch oven or a large stockpot. Pour in the water, then add the brown sugar, maple syrup (if using), cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bring to a Boil & Simmer
Set the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 2 hours. The fruit will soften and release its flavors into the liquid, creating a rich, aromatic cider.
Step 4: Mash the Fruit for Maximum Flavor
After 2 hours, use a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon to mash the apples and oranges. This helps extract even more juice and intensifies the cider’s flavor. Continue to simmer uncovered for another 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen. Stir in the vanilla extract at this stage.
Step 5: Strain the Cider
Carefully strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or large heat-safe bowl. Use the back of a spoon to press down on the fruit pulp to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Ladle the warm apple cider into mugs and garnish each with a fresh apple slice and a cinnamon stick for extra flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy!
FAQs
Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Simply add all the ingredients to a slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Mash the fruit in the last hour, then strain before serving.
How Do I Store Leftover Apple Cider?
Let the cider cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat or microwave it in 30-second intervals until hot.
