Description
This warm, spiced apple cider combines the natural sweetness of apples with fragrant cinnamon, cloves, and orange, creating a soothing drink perfect for chilly days. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, it delivers a rustic, cozy flavor that feels like a hug in a mug.
Ingredients
1 gallon apple cider (unsweetened)
3–4 cinnamon sticks
10–15 whole cloves or 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 orange, thinly sliced (peel and all)
1/4 to 1/2 cup brown sugar or maple syrup/honey
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, grated or ground
Instructions
Combine apple cider and cinnamon sticks in a large pot.
Add cloves and orange slices, stirring gently to distribute.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat and cook for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in brown sugar or sweetener of choice until dissolved.
Remove from heat, add nutmeg, and let steep for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Strain through a fine mesh sieve if desired, discarding solids.
Notes
Use unfiltered apple cider for the best flavor.
Adjust sweetness to taste—start with 1/4 cup sugar and add more as needed.
Serve in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick or orange slice.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Homemade
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg