Description
Spiked apple cider is a warm and comforting drink made with apple cider, spices, and your choice of alcohol. Here is a simple recipe for making spiked apple cider at home:
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 8 cups apple cider
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- 4 whole allspice berries
- 4 thin slices of fresh ginger
- 1 cup of your choice of alcohol (such as rum, brandy, or whiskey)
Instructions
- In a large pot or slow cooker, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, allspice berries, and ginger.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it comes to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the spiked apple cider simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded.
- Strain the spiked apple cider into a serving pitcher or individual mugs.
- Stir in the alcohol of your choice and serve the spiked apple cider warm.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a slice of fresh apple if desired.
Notes
- Use good quality apple cider: The quality of the apple cider you use will make a big difference in the taste of your spiked apple cider. Try to find a good quality, fresh apple cider from a local farm or farmers’ market, or make your own by simmering sliced apples with a little water and sugar until the mixture is fragrant and flavorful.
- Adjust the sweetness to taste: The amount of brown sugar you use will depend on your personal preference and the sweetness of the apple cider. Start with 1/2 cup and taste the mixture as it simmers. If it’s not sweet enough, add a little more sugar. If it’s too sweet, add a splash more cider.
- Experiment with different spices: In addition to the spices listed in the recipe, you can also add a few sliced orange pieces or a star anise for a different flavor.
- Use your choice of alcohol: The recipe calls for 1 cup of your choice of alcohol, such as rum, brandy, or whiskey. You can use whichever one you prefer, or mix and match to create your own flavor.
- Keep it warm: Spiked apple cider is best served warm, so keep it in a slow cooker or on the stove over low heat until you’re ready to serve it. You can also serve it in a insulated carafe to keep it warm.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes