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Spiked Apple Cider Recipe Easy Homemade Cozy Drink for Fall Nights

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A warm and cozy spiked apple cider with a perfect balance of sweet apples, spices, and a splash of bourbon, spiced rum, or apple brandy. Ideal for chilly fall evenings and festive gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (1 liter) apple cider, preferably fresh and unfiltered
  • 2 large cinnamon sticks
  • 6–8 whole cloves
  • 5–6 allspice berries
  • 1 medium fresh orange, thinly sliced plus zest from half
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) bourbon, spiced rum, or apple brandy
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and allspice berries in a small bowl. Use cheesecloth or a spice infuser to contain them for easy removal. Slice the fresh orange into thin rounds and zest half an orange; set aside.
  2. Pour 4 cups (1 liter) of apple cider into a large saucepan. Add the spice bundle and orange slices. Heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, about 5-7 minutes. Avoid boiling.
  3. Stir in 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (if using) until sugar dissolves. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
  4. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture gently simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to infuse flavors.
  5. Remove the cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, and orange slices using a slotted spoon or by lifting the cheesecloth bundle.
  6. Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 cup (240 ml) of your choice of bourbon, spiced rum, or apple brandy. Mix gently.
  7. Pour the spiked apple cider into mugs or heatproof glasses. Garnish with a fresh cinnamon stick or a thin orange peel twist. Serve warm immediately.

Notes

Do not boil the cider to preserve fresh flavors. Use fresh spices for best aroma. Adjust sweetness to taste. For non-alcoholic version, omit spirits and add extra apple cider or sparkling water. To keep warm during parties, use a slow cooker on the ‘warm’ setting. Store leftovers refrigerated up to 3 days and reheat gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: spiked apple cider, fall drink, cozy drink, homemade cider, bourbon cider, spiced rum cider, apple brandy cider, autumn beverage

Find it online: https://tessierecipes.com/spiked-apple-cider-recipe-easy-homemade-cozy-drink-for-fall-nights/