Hot Spiced Cider Recipe

Apple cider: The base of the drink, providing a sweet and tangy flavor.

Cinnamon sticks: Adds warmth and a spicy aroma to the cider.

Whole cloves: Infuses the cider with a deep, aromatic spice.

Orange: Sliced to add a citrusy brightness to the drink.

Lemon: Sliced to provide a zesty contrast to the sweetness.

Brown sugar: Sweetens the cider and adds a hint of molasses flavor.

To enhance the flavor of your hot spiced cider, consider lightly toasting the cinnamon sticks and whole cloves in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the saucepan. This will release their essential oils and deepen their aromatic qualities, resulting in a richer and more complex cider.

• apple cider - Substitute with pear cider: Pear cider offers a similar sweetness and fruitiness, making it a good alternative.

• cinnamon sticks - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can provide the same warm, spicy flavor, though you may need to strain the cider before serving.

• whole cloves - Substitute with ground cloves: Ground cloves can deliver the same aromatic spice, but use sparingly as they are more potent.

• whole sliced orange - Substitute with whole sliced tangerine: Tangerines are slightly sweeter and can add a similar citrusy note.

• whole sliced lemon - Substitute with whole sliced lime: Limes offer a similar tartness and can provide a refreshing twist.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a rich, complex sweetness that complements the spices well.

• Allow the hot spiced cider to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can dilute the flavors.
• Pour the cooled cider into an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a BPA-free plastic container. Make sure to leave a little space at the top to allow for expansion if you plan to freeze it.
• If you prefer, you can also use a vacuum-sealed bag for storing the cider. This method helps to preserve the flavors and prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of its freshness.
• Store the cider in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within 3-5 days. For longer storage, place the container in the freezer.
• When you're ready to enjoy the cider again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat the cider gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Avoid boiling, as this can alter the flavors.
• For an added touch, you can reintroduce fresh cinnamon sticks and orange slices during reheating to enhance the aroma and taste.
• Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of your hot spiced cider.

• Saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan is essential for combining and heating all the ingredients together.

• Wooden spoon: Use a wooden spoon to stir the mixture occasionally while it simmers.

• Knife: A knife is needed to slice the orange and lemon.

• Cutting board: A cutting board provides a safe surface to slice the fruits.

• Measuring cups: Use measuring cups to accurately measure the apple cider.

• Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are necessary for measuring the brown sugar.

• Strainer: A strainer is used to remove the spices and fruit slices before serving.

• Serving mugs: Serve the hot spiced cider in serving mugs to enjoy it warm.

Pre-slice fruits: Slice the orange and lemon ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use a slow cooker: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and set it on low for 2-3 hours. This allows you to multitask.

Make a spice bundle: Tie the cinnamon sticks and cloves in a piece of cheesecloth for easy removal.

Batch preparation: Double or triple the recipe and store the extra in the fridge. Reheat as needed.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the brown sugar and other ingredients in advance to streamline the process.