As the leaves begin to turn and a crispness fills the air, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the kitchen table with family and friends, enjoying the heartwarming aroma of Hot Spiced Cider. This comforting beverage has always been a staple in my home during the fall and winter months. I remember my grandmother would have a pot simmering on the stove, filling the house with its inviting scent. It’s those cherished memories that I aim to recreate each time I prepare this delightful concoction. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite Hot Spiced Cider recipe with you, a trusted family tradition that has been passed down through generations.
Why You’ll Love This Comforting Beverage
Hot Spiced Cider is more than just a drink; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this cozy beverage:
- Quick and Easy: With just 5 minutes of prep time and a total of 10 minutes to make, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a quick pick-me-up. Its simplicity allows you to spend more time enjoying the moment rather than being tied up in the kitchen. This efficiency makes it an excellent choice for those spontaneous gatherings or when you want to surprise your family with a special treat after a long day.
- Versatile Preparation: Whether you prefer using a coffee maker, slow cooker, or stovetop, this recipe adapts to your kitchen setup with ease. Each method offers a slightly different flavor profile, allowing you to experiment and find your favorite. For instance, using a slow cooker can enhance the depth of flavor as the spices have more time to infuse into the cider, offering a richer taste.
- Aromatic and Inviting: The blend of cinnamon, cloves, and oranges fills your home with a delightful aroma that welcomes everyone who walks through the door. This scent is synonymous with comfort and nostalgia, often evoking fond memories of past gatherings. The fragrance of spices and citrus can set the mood for a cozy evening, making your home feel even more inviting.
- Healthy and Delicious: With only 75 calories per serving, this cider is a guilt-free treat that also provides a good dose of Vitamin C. The natural sweetness of apple cider means no need for excessive sugars, making it a healthier option compared to many other festive drinks. Drinking this spiced cider can also be a great way to boost your immune system during the colder months.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family gatherings or holiday parties. Its non-alcoholic nature allows everyone to indulge, and you can always add a splash of bourbon or rum for the adults if desired. This flexibility makes it a versatile drink that can be customized to suit everyone’s preferences, ensuring all your guests are catered for.
The Recipe
Let’s dive right into making this delicious Hot Spiced Cider. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- ½ teaspoon whole allspice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
- 1 large orange, quartered with peel
- 2 quarts apple cider
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Coffee Maker: Place a filter in the basket of an automatic coffee maker. This will help catch the spices, ensuring a smooth drink. Using a coffee maker allows for a hands-off approach, freeing you up to prepare other snacks or simply relax.
- Add Spices and Orange: In the basket, add brown sugar, the cinnamon stick, cloves, allspice, salt, and nutmeg. Top with the orange wedges. The orange not only adds flavor but also a refreshing citrus aroma that balances the spices. This combination of ingredients creates a harmonious blend that is both complex and comforting.
- Pour and Brew: Pour the apple cider into the water reservoir of your coffee maker and start the brew cycle. This easy method mimics the infusion process, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re using a stovetop or slow cooker, simply combine all ingredients and let them simmer gently.
- Serve Hot: Once brewed, serve your Hot Spiced Cider immediately for the best flavor. It’s perfect for sipping by the fireplace on a chilly night. Serve it in your favorite mugs to enhance the cozy feel. Consider garnishing with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for an extra touch of elegance.
- Clean-Up: Don’t forget to clean your coffee maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions to remove any lingering spice flavors before your next coffee brew. This ensures your next pot of coffee isn’t unexpectedly spiced! The clean-up process is minimal, making this recipe as convenient as it is delicious.
- Alternative Method: If you prefer, you can also make this recipe using a coffee percolator for a richer, more infused flavor. The percolator allows the cider to be infused with spices for longer, intensifying the taste. This method is ideal for those who enjoy a robust, deeply spiced drink.
For more cozy, warm drink recipes, check out our Homemade Hot Chocolate and Mulled Wine posts.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To prepare this Hot Spiced Cider, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Automatic Coffee Maker: A convenient method for brewing the cider with minimal fuss. It’s especially useful if you’re multitasking or entertaining guests. The coffee maker method ensures even heating and consistent flavor extraction.
- Coffee Filter: Essential for holding the spices and orange wedges. This helps in easy clean-up and ensures that spices don’t end up in your cup. The filter also allows the cider to remain clear, enhancing its presentation.
- Measuring Spoons: For accurate measurements of spices and sugar. Precision is key to balancing the flavors properly. Using the right amount of each ingredient ensures that no single flavor overpowers the others.
- Knife and Cutting Board: To quarter the orange. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts, while a sturdy cutting board provides stability. Proper preparation of the orange is crucial for releasing its essential oils and juice.
- Serving Mugs: Serve your cider in cozy mugs to keep the warmth. Mugs with handles are ideal as they protect your hands from the heat. Choose mugs that are both functional and festive to enhance the drinking experience.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
Each ingredient in this Hot Spiced Cider plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors:
- Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth, enhancing the natural flavor of the cider. Its molasses content gives the cider a richer, caramel-like undertone. Brown sugar also contributes to the overall color and body of the drink.
- Cinnamon Stick: Provides warmth and a classic spice that pairs beautifully with apple. Cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Its subtle sweetness and aromatic qualities make it a staple in fall and winter recipes.
- Whole Cloves: Infuses the cider with a distinct, aromatic kick, known for its health benefits, including aiding digestion. Cloves are also rich in antioxidants. Their strong, warm aroma is essential for creating the signature scent of spiced cider.
- Whole Allspice: Offers a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove flavors, adding complexity. Allspice is often used in traditional autumn and winter dishes for its warm, comforting aroma. This spice brings a unique depth to the cider, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
- Salt: A pinch enhances the sweetness of the cider and balances the spices. It might seem counterintuitive, but salt enhances flavor and rounds out the sweetness. This small addition can make a significant difference in the taste of the final product.
- Ground Nutmeg: Adds a subtle, earthy spice that complements the other ingredients. Nutmeg is often used in holiday recipes and is known for its soothing effects. This spice contributes to the cozy, comforting nature of the drink.
- Orange: The peel and juice add a citrusy brightness and a boost of Vitamin C. The zest from the orange peel releases essential oils, enhancing the aromatic experience. Oranges provide a refreshing contrast to the warm spices, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- Apple Cider: The base of the drink, providing a sweet, fruity foundation that’s rich in antioxidants. Choose a high-quality cider for the best flavor, preferably one without added sugars. The quality of the cider will significantly impact the overall taste of the beverage.
For more insights on the health benefits of spices, you can visit Healthline’s guide on spices.
What to Serve With This Comforting Beverage
Hot Spiced Cider is a versatile drink that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sweet and savory treats. Here are a few suggestions:
- Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: The sweet and spiced flavors complement the cider perfectly. Try our homemade donut recipe. These donuts capture the essence of fall, making them a delightful pairing. Their warm, sugary coating enhances the cinnamon notes in the cider.
- Cheese and Crackers: A simple, savory snack that balances the sweetness of the cider. Opt for cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda for a robust flavor that stands up to the spices in the cider. The saltiness of the cheese provides a nice contrast to the sweet, spiced drink.
- Pumpkin Bread: A slice of moist, spiced pumpkin bread makes for a delightful pairing. The spices in the bread echo those in the cider, creating a harmonious flavor experience. The rich, dense texture of the bread complements the light, refreshing nature of the cider.
- Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: Enhance the apple flavor with fresh slices and a touch of caramel. This duo is not only delicious but also visually appealing, perfect for any gathering. The crisp apple slices offer a refreshing crunch, while the caramel adds a touch of indulgence.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you happen to have any leftover Hot Spiced Cider, here’s how to store it for later enjoyment:
- Refrigerate: Pour the leftover cider into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the cider fresh and ready to be enjoyed whenever the craving strikes. Refrigeration helps preserve the flavors without losing the aromatic qualities of the spices.
- Reheat: Warm the cider on the stovetop over low heat, or microwave it in a mug, ensuring it doesn’t boil to preserve the flavors. Boiling can alter the taste and reduce the aromatic qualities. Gentle reheating ensures that the cider retains its original taste and aroma.
- Freeze: For longer storage, pour the cider into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Freezing in individual portions can make it easier to reheat only what you need. This method is great for enjoying a taste of fall even after the season has passed.
As you cozy up with a steaming mug of this delightful Hot Spiced Cider, I hope it brings warmth to your heart and home just as it does to mine. Remember, the beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and adaptability, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment alone, this cider is sure to become a beloved staple in your home, just as it has in mine. Happy sipping!
Hot Spiced Cider
Warm up with a comforting cup of Hot Spiced Cider, infused with the cozy flavors of cloves, allspice, orange, and cinnamon. This easy recipe is perfect for chilly days and can be made in a coffee maker, slow cooker, or stovetop.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place a filter in the basket of an automatic coffee maker.
- Add brown sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, allspice, salt, and nutmeg to the basket; top with orange wedges.
- Pour apple cider into the water reservoir.
- Brew and serve hot.
- Clean your coffee maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions before using for coffee again.
- You can also make this recipe in a coffee percolator.
Nutrition
Calories: 75kcalCarbohydrates: 19gSodium: 40mgPotassium: 152mgFiber: 1gSugar: 16gVitamin C: 55mgCalcium: 20mg
Notes
This spiced cider can also be made using a slow cooker or on the stovetop for a more traditional method. Adjust the spices according to your preference for a more or less intense flavor.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!