Description
Cozy homemade apple cider infused with warm spices and natural sweetness, perfect to brighten chilly days with a comforting and delightful drink.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 8 cups fresh apple juice
Spices & Flavorings
- 3 cinnamon sticks (natural)
- 6 whole cloves (natural)
- 2 star anise (natural)
- 1 orange peel (natural), thin strips
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (natural)
- 1 inch fresh ginger root (natural), thinly sliced
Optional
- 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash apples thoroughly and juice fresh apples if possible, or select high-quality fresh apple juice. Gather spices and slice fresh ginger thinly for maximum flavor infusion.
- Combine and Simmer: In a large pot, pour the fresh apple juice. Add cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, orange peel, and sliced ginger. Stir in maple syrup gently. Heat the mixture over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Infuse the Flavors: Let the cider simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing the spices and citrus to release their full flavor. If desired, add natural gelling agent during this step for a richer texture.
- Strain and Serve Warm: Once fragrant and spiced to your liking, strain the cider through a fine mesh sieve to remove solids. Serve immediately warm or keep on low heat to enjoy throughout the day.
Notes
- Use fresh apple juice and spices for the best aromatic and rich flavor.
- Maintain a gentle simmer to avoid bitterness from overcooked spices.
- Adjust maple syrup amount to control sweetness level.
- Combine tart and sweet apples for complex flavor.
- Strain thoroughly to keep cider smooth and enjoyable.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240ml)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: apple cider, cozy drink, warm spices, fall beverage, natural ingredients, spiced cider, non-alcoholic drink
