Grandmas Spiced Apple Cider
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Ever get that craving for something warm and comforting as the leaves start to turn? Me too! This spiced apple cider recipe is my go-to when I need a little autumnal pick-me-up.
Seriously, it's the perfect drink to warm your soul.
This classic autumn drinks recipe has roots that go way back. It's a tradition in many cultures, especially around harvest time.
It is also easy to make and requires about an hour. This hot apple cider recipe makes about 8 servings.
Warm Up With Grandma's Spiced Cider
Honestly, the best part is how good it makes your house smell! Cinnamon, cloves, and apples...it's like aromatherapy. Warm spiced drinks are the ideal way to combat the autumn chill, so get ready to cozy up.
And this recipe is especially good because you can make a batch and sip on it all day.
Why This Autumn Drinks Recipe Rocks
One big bonus? Apples are good for you! This cinnamon apple cider is full of antioxidants and vitamins. Make it for Thanksgiving, a bonfire night, or just a lazy Sunday.
I would even recommend it as an excuse to spend some time in the kitchen. This isn't just apple cider with spices ; it's a memory in the making.
So ditch the store-bought stuff and make some amazing homemade autumn drinks .
Cozy Fall Drinks That Will Warm Your Soul
Ready to dive in? You'll need apples, spices, and a little bit of time. I sometimes add a splash of bourbon for an adult twist (shhh!).
But even without the booze, it's pure fall beverage recipes perfection. I've tweaked it over the years to get it just right.
You can too.
Ingredients & Equipment for Cozy Autumn Drinks
Let's talk about what you'll need to whip up some seriously delicious autumn drinks . Honestly, this spiced apple cider recipe is so simple, the ingredient list isn't scary at all.
It's less "cheffy," more "chilled afternoon with friends."
Main Ingredients
- 8 cups (1.9 liters) apple cider
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Optional: 1/4 cup (50ml) brown sugar or maple syrup, to taste
For the apple cider, go for the good stuff! Freshly pressed, unfiltered cider will give you the best flavor. It needs to be rich and taste appley.
If you can’t find decent cider, even some good apple juice can work. The orange and lemon, make sure they're nice and plump, so they can add loads of zest to our warm spiced drinks .
Seasoning Notes
This is where the magic happens! Cinnamon, cloves, and allspice are your essential spice combinations . I love the warm, festive feeling they bring, which makes it an amazing fall beverage recipe .
Honestly, the aroma alone is enough to make me feel all cosy.
If you’re missing allspice, a pinch of ground cloves or ginger will do in a pinch. You know, sometimes you just gotta make do with what you’ve got! For a slightly deeper flavour, you could even add a star anise to the blend.
You can also easily substitute the spices with apple pie spice mix.
Equipment Needed
Seriously, you don't need much for this mulled cider recipe .
- Large pot or Dutch oven (at least 6-quart capacity)
- Wooden spoon
- Fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth
- Ladle
A big pot is key. You need room for all that liquid and the spices to mingle. My trusty Dutch oven gets a workout every autumn! A wooden spoon is great for stirring without scratching the pot, and a sieve or cheesecloth makes straining a breeze.
If you don't have cheesecloth, a clean tea towel will do too.
Making your own homemade autumn drinks really is that easy. The best thing about autumn cocktails based on the spiced apple cider is how adaptable they are.
From using ingredients you already have to serving in your best mug. So, go on. Get creative with your cinnamon apple cider !
Grandma's Spiced Apple Cider: The Cosiest Sip of Autumn
Honestly, is there anything better than a warm mug on a chilly day? This spiced apple cider recipe is more than just a drink, it's pure comfort.
Inspired by my own Nan's recipe, this blend of sweet apples and warming spices is perfect for an autumn evening.
I would watch "The Great British Bake Off" with her, memories for life! Think of it as a hug in a mug.
.. mmm!
Prep Like a Pro for Autumn Drinks
Essential mise en place means having everything ready. Slice one orange and one lemon thinly. Get out 8 cups (1.
9 liters) of apple cider , four cinnamon sticks, one tablespoon of whole cloves, 1 teaspoon of whole allspice berries , and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
Optional: 1/4 cup (50ml) of brown sugar or maple syrup .
Time saving tips : Prep the spices beforehand. You could even pre-slice the citrus the day before!
step-by-step to a Perfect Mulled Cider Recipe
- Combine: In a large pot, chuck in the apple cider with spices , orange and lemon slices, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg.
- Simmer Time: Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Low and Slow: Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour for the flavors to meld. This is where the magic happens, honestly! The longer, the better up to 3 hours . Keep an eye on it.
- Sweeten: Taste after simmering. If needed, stir in brown sugar or maple syrup. Sweeten slowly!
- Strain: Strain the cider through a sieve to remove the solids. You could use cheesecloth too.
- Serve: Ladle the hot apple cider into mugs. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Pro Tips for Warm Spiced Drinks
Want to take your spiced apple cider recipe up a notch? Here's some wisdom:
- Simmer low and slow. Don’t rush! The longer it simmers, the better the autumn cocktails taste.
- Avoid boiling. It can make the cider bitter. Keep it gentle!
- If you want homemade autumn drinks to be more flavorful, add cranberries for a tart twist. Or a splash of rum for the grown ups.
Honestly, this cinnamon apple cider recipe is a game changer for your fall beverage recipes . A cozy fall drinks, right? Enjoy!
Recipe Notes to Make Your Autumn Drinks Shine
Right then, let's dive into the nitty gritty of making this spiced apple cider recipe truly special. We’ll also have a look at serving up your autumn drinks in style, storing any leftovers (if there are any!), and tweaking the recipe to suit your taste.
I've made this hot apple cider more times than I can count, and I've picked up a few tricks along the way.
Honestly, you'll be amazed at how easy it is to nail!
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Sip
Okay, so you've got a gorgeous pot of mulled cider recipe bubbling away. But how do you make it Instagram worthy? First, think about presentation.
A simple cinnamon stick swizzle or a delicate orange slice floating on top works wonders. I love using rustic mugs for that extra cosy feel something that says "gather round the fire".
Serve with some homemade biscuits. Trust me, your guests will love you! Consider pairing it with a cheese board. The sweetness of the apple cider with spices balances perfectly with a sharp cheddar.
Storage Tips: Keep the Autumn Spirit Alive
Got leftovers? No problem! Once cooled, transfer your warm spiced drinks to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge.
It'll keep for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Pour into freezer safe containers, leaving a little room at the top.
It's best consumed within two months though. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Honestly, it tastes just as good the next day!
Variations: Make It Your Own
Fancy a twist? For a vegan version, just make sure your apple cider and sweetener are vegan. Simple as that! Or, why not try adding a splash of bourbon for an adults only apple cider with spices ? A bit of booze can spice up any autumn cocktails , but remember to drink responsibly.
Plus, try adding a touch of ginger for an extra kick. Honestly, the possibilities are endless! These fall beverage recipes are really flexible.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Sip
Look, I'm no nutritionist, but I know that apple cider, especially when homemade, has some good stuff in it. Apples are a great source of vitamin C.
The spices like cinnamon and cloves have antioxidant properties. However, remember that it also contains sugar, so enjoy in moderation.
Also, the nutritional data is an estimate only, with 120 calories, 0g of protein, 0g of fat, 30g of carbs and 25g of sugars per serving,
Don't be afraid to experiment with homemade autumn drinks and find your perfect blend. Making cozy fall drinks should be a fun experience, so relax, enjoy the process, and happy sipping! I promise you'll create some amazing memories with this recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these autumn drinks, like Spiced Apple Cider, ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, Spiced Apple Cider often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Just let it cool completely, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, and then gently reheat it on the stove before serving.
Think of it like a good Sunday roast - even better as leftovers!
I'm not a fan of cloves. Are there any other spices I can use in my autumn drinks?
Of course! If cloves aren't your cup of tea, you can easily adjust the spices to suit your taste. Try adding a bit of star anise, cardamom pods, or even a pinch of ground ginger for a different flavor profile. Play around with it just like jazz, some of the best recipes come from experimentation!
Is it possible to make a 'boozy' version of these autumn drinks recipes?
You bet your bottom dollar! For a more adult take on Spiced Apple Cider, a splash of bourbon, rum, or apple brandy does the trick. Add it after the cider has been simmering, directly into your mug. Remember, drink responsibly and enjoy in moderation, old sport!
How can I make sure my autumn drinks aren’t too sweet?
The sweetness of your Spiced Apple Cider depends heavily on the type of apple cider you use. Start with unsweetened or naturally sweet cider and add sweetener gradually, tasting as you go. You can always add more, but you can't take it away!
Also, remember that spices like cinnamon can also add a perceived sweetness to the drink.
What are some good garnishes to make my autumn drinks look extra fancy?
Presentation is key, isn't it? For Spiced Apple Cider, a simple cinnamon stick or a fresh orange slice floating on top adds a touch of elegance. You could also try a star anise or even a sprinkle of ground nutmeg. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, a caramel drizzle on the rim of the mug is always a winner!
Can I use ground spices instead of whole spices when making autumn drinks?
Yes, absolutely, but with caution! Ground spices have a much stronger flavor, so you'll need to use less. About 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon will replace one cinnamon stick. Also, be aware that ground spices can make the cider a bit cloudy, so straining it extra carefully is a good idea to avoid a gritty texture.
Grandmas Spiced Apple Cider
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 120 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 0g |
| Fiber | 0g |