Hot apple cider is a perfect fall beverage. Enjoy it at a crisp autumn campsite, or in a recliner on a rainy afternoon, or at a cozy gathering with friends. This recipe is exceedingly simple and easy, and I’ve included measurements for adding bourbon, if you’d like it spiked.
ingredients:
serves 2
- 3 cups unfiltered apple juice (often labeled as cider in the US)
- 1 large cinnamon stick
- 3-4 whole cloves (optional)
- 2-3 whole allspice (optional)
- 3 oz bourbon
Heat a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the whole spices and toast, stirring 1-2 times for a minute or two until you can smell them. Add the apple juice, cover with a lid, and reduce heat to medium-low until it’s and hot. Remove from heat immediately if it starts to simmer. Ladle or pour through a strainer into two mugs, and add half of the bourbon to each, if desired. Discard the spices. Enjoy piping hot!
If you’d like to make a larger batch, you can easily scale your hot apple cider up to serve a crowd.
Mmm, love me some hot spiced cider. Mmm, love me some bourbon. What a great addition to cozy gatherings with family and friends (love me that, too)!