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Cozy Spiked Cinnamon Apple Cider: Easy 5-Minute Recipe

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This warm and comforting spiked apple cider comes together in just 5 minutes with simple ingredients like apple cider, cinnamon sticks, and bourbon. Perfect for cozy nights, holiday parties, or when you need a hug in a mug.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (475 ml) apple cider
  • 2 whole cinnamon sticks
  • 3 to 4 whole cloves
  • 1 whole star anise (optional)
  • 1 (2-inch) strip orange peel (no white pith)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) maple syrup or 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar (optional)
  • 2 to 3 ounces (60 to 90 ml) bourbon, dark rum, or whiskey per serving
  • Fresh apple slices (for garnish, optional)
  • Cinnamon sticks (for garnish, optional)
  • Star anise (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Toast the cinnamon sticks: Place a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the 2 cinnamon sticks and toast for about 30 seconds, shaking the pan occasionally, until fragrant and slightly toasty.
  2. Add the cider and spices: Pour in 2 cups (475 ml) of apple cider. Add the whole cloves, star anise (if using), and the strip of orange peel. If using maple syrup or brown sugar, add it now. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Heat, don’t boil: Turn the heat to medium-low and warm the cider for 3 to 4 minutes until steaming hot but not boiling. Look for small bubbles around the edges of the pot.
  4. Taste and adjust: After 3 minutes, taste the cider. Adjust sweetness with more maple syrup or lemon juice if needed. Let steep another minute if more spice is desired.
  5. Strain and serve: Place a fine-mesh strainer over a mug or heatproof glass. Carefully pour the hot cider through the strainer to catch the spices and orange peel. Discard the solids.
  6. Add the spike: Pour 2 to 3 ounces (60 to 90 ml) of your chosen spirit directly into the mug. Stir gently with a cinnamon stick. Adjust strength with more cider or spirit as desired.
  7. Garnish and enjoy: Float a fresh apple slice on top, add a whole star anise, or serve with the cinnamon stick. Sip slowly and enjoy.

Notes

Toast cinnamon sticks gently over medium heat for 30 seconds to release oils. Don’t skip the orange peel—it adds brightness. Add alcohol after heating to preserve its warmth. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the spirit and add an extra cinnamon stick and a splash of vanilla extract. Leftover cider base (without alcohol) can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: spiked apple cider, hot apple cider, cinnamon apple cider, bourbon cider, easy cider recipe, 5-minute recipe, fall drink, winter drink, cozy drink

Find it online: https://cookluma.com/cozy-spiked-cinnamon-apple-cider-easy-5-minute-recipe/