Hot Spiced Apple Cider

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Hot Spiced Apple Cider is a classic fall beverage that's perfect for cozying up on a chilly day. This comforting drink is made by simmering apple cider with a blend of warm spices, creating a delicious and aromatic treat.

Whether you're enjoying it at home or sharing it with friends and family, Hot Spiced Apple Cider is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Apple cocktail with sliced apple & cinnamon sticks.

Why You'll Love This Hot Spiced Apple Cider

This hot apple cider, combined with tart oranges slices and spices, create a complex and delicious flavor combination that pairs perfectly during evenings by the fire side.

Combining some of the best fall flavors - apple cider, spices, and oranges - this easy spiced apple cider will have guests raving.

Easy to make. Simply mix everything up in a Dutch oven or a crockpot.
Great flavors. Simmered sweet apple cider (or apple juice), orange slices, and cinnamon make this a great seasonal punch to serve when hosting gatherings.
Festive. Perfect hot spiced apple cider to serve during September and October fall Oktoberfest events, or any cold or chilly fall day.

Ingredients You'll Need

Apple Cider or Apple Juice - Regular bottled apple juice in the grocery aisle is fine also.
Cinnamon - about 3" - 4" lengths. You will need one for each mug, plus 3 for the simmering pot. You can also garnish with fresh cranberries, sliced oranges, lemons, or sprigs of fresh rosemary.
Cloves - Use whole cloves but remove them from the sauce pan after about 30 minutes.
Orange - Sliced, any variety of orange will work, even tangerines, limes, or mandarins.
Apples - Aim for green, red, and mixed colored apples for a variety of color. One of each is perfect. My favorite variety of apple is Cosmic Crisp.
Garnishes - A cinnamon stick for each drink, or fresh cranberries.

Full ingredient amounts and preparation instructions for this fall cocktail are in the printable card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Hot Spiced Apple Cider

This recipe is incredibly easy to make and can be customized to your personal preference. You can adjust the amount of spices to your liking, add a splash of rum or whiskey for a boozy twist, or garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange slice for a festive touch.

Hot Spiced Apple Cider is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed in many different ways.

Prepare The Apple and Orange Slices

Cut the orange into slices. Core and slice the apples.

Simmer Apple Cider, Fruit, and Cinnamon

Place the apple cider or apple juice, spices, orange slices, and cut apple slices into a medium size pot over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes.

apples and oranges with spices in a simmer pot.

Mix and Serve The Apple Cider Cocktail

Remove the pot from heat. Using a slotted spoon, lift out the apple and orange slices, as well as the spices.
Serve this spiced apple cider in mugs. Garnish with thin fruit slices. Serve immediately with a garnish of sliced fruit, fresh cranberries, or a fresh herb sprig.

pitcher of beverage in a glass with apple slices and a pitcher in the background.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this delightful autumn inspired punch with friends or family during the fall festive season with a few appetizers or grilled dinner. Hot spiced apple cider will help warm cold hands while enjoying the fading warmth of the day.

This warming apple cider beverage is perfect for an outdoor marshmallow roast, an evening by the fire, or even to adult Christmas carolers. With its warm, comforting flavor and festive aroma, Hot Spiced Apple Cider is the perfect way to celebrate the fall and winter seasons.

Apple cider beverage with apple slices and cinnamon sticks.

Substitutions

Experiment with different combinations of spices to find your favorite flavor.
If you are feeling adventurous, you can use hard cider in this apple cider or juice drink.

Variations

Some great flavor variations when making this recipe:

Add some fresh cranberries to the simmering pot of cider, and garnish the mugs before serving.
Sliced pears pair well with if you prefer them to citrus fruits in this cider drink.
Garnish with citrus or fruit slices, or sprigs of rosemary.

Tips for Success

Here are some additional tips for making and serving this warmed spiced apple cider recipe:

Using a crockpot allows lets you make larger a larger batch of cider ahead of time when you're preparing for a party.
Don't leave the spices in the simmering cider for more than 30 minutes, as they will slowly turn the cider mixture a little bitter over time.

Equipment

Equipment can have a big impact on how cocktail recipes turns out. You can make a family size batch of this spiced apple cider using a crockpot, or make just enough for two on the stove top using a sauce pan.

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Storage Options

Leftover cider can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make a large batch of spiced apple cider ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes, you can use apple juice, but apple cider will have a more robust flavor.

More Delish Ideas

apple juice in a glass with apple slices.

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5 from 2 votes