Spiced Apple Cider with Cinnamon & Cloves – A Cozy, Festive Drink

Hi, I’m Sarah Jansen, a traveler and food blogger who loves creating memorable experiences around food and drink. There’s nothing quite like a warm, spiced apple cider to set the tone for the holiday season, especially when paired with a delicious dessert like Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars. This Spiced Apple Cider recipe is the ultimate cozy drink for festive gatherings. With its sweet apple flavor, cinnamon warmth, and zesty citrus, it’s a comforting sip that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of your holiday spread. Whether served hot or cold, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

Spiced Apple Cider with Cinnamon & Cloves

This Spiced Apple Cider recipe is a holiday essential, bringing together the comforting flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. The aroma fills your home as it simmers, offering a warm and inviting beverage perfect for sipping on chilly nights. It’s simple to make and easy to customize with optional spices or a splash of alcohol for a spiked version. The drink’s rich and slightly tangy apple base complements holiday desserts beautifully, especially when paired with treats like Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars. Whether you’re hosting a party or relaxing at home, this cider is the perfect festive touch.

Why This Recipe Works

• Perfectly Festive: The warming spices (cinnamon, cloves, star anise) bring the holiday flavor to life, making it a seasonal favorite.
• Simple & Quick: With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s the perfect holiday drink for busy gatherings.
• Versatile: Can be served hot for cozy evenings or chilled for refreshing holiday parties.
• Customizable: Adjust sweetness and spice levels to suit your preferences, and add a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy for an adult version.
• Pairs Beautifully with Desserts: The sweet apple flavor and spice complement treats like cakes, cookies, and especially the Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars.

Health Benefits

• Antioxidants: Apples, cinnamon, and cloves are rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Digestive Aid: Cinnamon has long been known for its digestive properties, helping to soothe the stomach.
• Immune Boosting: Star anise and cloves provide natural antiviral and antimicrobial properties.
• Low in Sugar (if adjusted): This recipe can be made lighter by adjusting the sweetness level with honey or leaving out the added sugar for a more natural flavor.

Ingredients

For the Cider:

• 8 cups apple cider (or apple juice)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4–5 whole cloves
• 2–3 star anise pods
• 1 orange, sliced (with peel on)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, sliced (optional)
• 1–2 tablespoons honey (optional, adjust sweetness to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for depth)

For Garnishing:

• Cinnamon sticks
• Orange slices
• Whole cloves
• Star anise pods
• Fresh herbs (like rosemary or mint, optional)

How to Make Spiced Apple Cider

In a large pot, combine apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and orange slices. Add sliced ginger and honey if desired for extra depth of flavor. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20–30 minutes to allow the spices to infuse. Taste and adjust sweetness with honey, if needed. Strain the cider to remove the spices and citrus slices, then pour into mugs. Garnish with cinnamon sticks, orange slices, and additional spices if desired. Serve hot, or chill for an iced version.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Begin by preparing your spices and citrus. Slice the orange into rounds, and if you’re using fresh ginger, slice it thinly. Set aside the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves. If you prefer a sweeter cider, measure out the honey and have it ready.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
   In a large pot, pour in 8 cups of apple cider. Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise pods. Place the sliced orange rounds in the pot, followed by the fresh ginger if using. The ginger will add a nice zesty heat to the cider, but it’s optional depending on your taste.
3. Simmer the Cider:
   Place the pot over medium heat and bring it to a gentle simmer. Once it starts simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the cider simmer for 20–30 minutes. This allows the spices to fully infuse the cider, creating that warm, festive aroma.
4. Adjust Sweetness:
   Taste the cider after about 20 minutes. If you’d like a sweeter cider, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of honey. Stir well to ensure it dissolves completely. For a more subtle sweetness, you can leave it as is or sweeten with a touch of maple syrup for a deeper flavor.
5. Strain the Cider:
   After the cider has simmered and taken on the beautiful spiced flavor, remove it from the heat. Strain the cider through a fine mesh sieve to remove the spices and citrus slices.
6. Serve:
   Pour the strained cider into mugs. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, a slice of orange, and a couple of star anise pods for a festive look. For a spiked version, add a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy to each mug.

Cook & Prep Times

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition Information (per serving, 8 servings)

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 32g (adjustable based on added honey or sweetness)
• Sodium: 5mg

Serving with Spiced Apple Cider

Serve the Spiced Apple Cider hot in festive mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick, a slice of orange, and a few star anise pods for that extra touch of holiday flair. This drink is perfect for cozying up after a busy day, whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying the season at home. Pair it with your Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars for a complete holiday experience. For a cold option, simply chill the cider and serve over ice—ideal for festive outdoor gatherings or as a refreshing alternative to hot drinks.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Spiked Version: Add a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy to each serving for an adult twist.
• Citrus Twist: For added depth, you can also include lemon slices along with the orange.
• Maple Syrup: Replace honey with maple syrup for a richer, fall-inspired sweetness.
• Vegan Option: Use maple syrup or agave nectar in place of honey for a vegan version.
• Herb Garnish: Fresh rosemary or mint sprigs can add a fresh, aromatic finish to the drink.
• Chill It: Serve chilled over ice for a refreshing version in warmer climates or during the holiday transition.

FAQ:

The Bottom Line

The Spiced Apple Cider with Cinnamon & Cloves is the perfect drink to complement your holiday spread. Its warming spices and natural apple sweetness make it the ultimate seasonal beverage. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, this cider is a true crowd-pleaser and will be loved by all ages. It’s simple, comforting, and deeply aromatic—ideal for pairing with Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars and other holiday treats. Make it your go-to drink for every holiday gathering, and enjoy the cozy warmth it brings to your festivities.