Description

A festive, spiced apple cider that is easy to make and perfect for the holiday season. This recipe uses fresh apples and whole spices for a complex, aromatic flavor that is both comforting and celebratory.

Ingredients

Scale

6–8 medium apples (mixed tart and sweet, e.g., Granny Smith and Honeycrisp), chopped
8 cups water
4 cups apple juice (100% juice)
3–4 cinnamon sticks
6–8 whole cloves
2 star anise
1 large knob fresh ginger (about 2 inches), sliced
1 orange, sliced into rounds
2–4 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, to taste

Instructions

Wash apples thoroughly. Core and chop them into rough chunks (no need to peel). Slice fresh ginger into thin coins and orange into rounds.
Add chopped apples, ginger, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise to a large stockpot or Dutch oven.
Pour in water and apple juice. Stir to combine.
Turn heat to medium-high and bring mixture to a boil.
Reduce heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover partially, leaving a crack for steam to escape.
Simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft and flavors are infused. Taste to adjust time based on desired strength.
Remove pot from heat. Stir in honey or maple syrup to taste.
Let cool for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Strain the cider through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a pitcher or mugs, discarding the solids.
Serve hot.

Notes

Do not boil the cider as it can make it cloudy and bitter; keep at a gentle simmer. Use whole spices for a cleaner flavor and easier straining. This cider tastes better the next day as flavors meld. Can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days. For an adult version, add a splash of dark rum, bourbon, or brandy after removing from heat.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Beverage
Cuisine: Jewish

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 45
Sugar: 9
Carbohydrates: 11
Fiber: 1

Keywords: Rosh Hashanah, spiced apple cider, holiday drink, autumn recipe, festive tea, gluten-free, dairy-free, mulled cider