🍎 Homemade Spiced Apple Cider – Warm & Cozy Fall Drink

🍎 Homemade Spiced Apple Cider – Warm & Cozy Fall Drink

Nothing says autumn like a cup of warm spiced apple cider. This homemade recipe is easy to prepare and fills your home with the comforting aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest. Sip it by the fireplace or serve it at your next gathering.

Glass of spiced apple cider with cinnamon stick

Image credit: Unsplash

πŸ›’ Ingredients:

  • 1 liter (4 cups) apple juice or cider
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 star anise (optional)
Pot with simmering spiced apple cider

Image credit: Unsplash

πŸ‘©‍🍳 Instructions:

  1. Pour apple juice or cider into a pot.
  2. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices, star anise, and brown sugar if using.
  3. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and reduce heat to low.
  4. Let simmer gently for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Strain out spices and orange slices before serving.
  6. Serve warm in mugs, optionally garnished with a cinnamon stick.
Glass of warm spiced apple cider

Image credit: Unsplash

🧑 Why I Love It:

  • Warm and comforting for chilly days
  • Simple to make with just a few ingredients
  • Perfect for parties or quiet evenings

πŸ”„ Variations & Tips:

  • Add fresh ginger slices for a spicy kick
  • Use fresh apple cider instead of juice for deeper flavor
  • Sweeten with honey instead of brown sugar for a different taste

πŸ₯¦ Approximate Nutrition per Serving:

  • Calories: ~120 kcal
  • Protein: 0g
  • Carbs: 30g
  • Fat: 0g

Image credits: Unsplash (used under Creative Commons).