December Recipe
Holiday Spiced Apple Cider
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This warm spiced cider is the perfect drink for chilly days or festive gatherings, combining apple cider and cranberry juice with fragrant spices for a cozy and flavorful treat.
To prepare, start by combining apple cider and cranberry juice in a large pot. Add slices of fresh orange, along with cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise to create a rich, spiced aroma. Heat the mixture over medium heat, ensuring it becomes hot but not boiling, as boiling can overpower the delicate flavors.
Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 20–30 minutes, giving the spices time to infuse their warmth and complexity into the cider. Stir occasionally to ensure the flavors meld beautifully. Taste the mixture and sweeten with honey or sugar as desired, adjusting to your preferred level of sweetness.
Once ready, strain the cider to remove the spices and orange slices, then ladle it into mugs. Serve warm and garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange wedge for an extra festive touch. This drink is perfect for cozy nights by the fire or as a crowd-pleaser at holiday gatherings!
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1 orange, sliced
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 5 cloves
- 2 star anise (optional)
- Honey or sugar to taste