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Spiced Autumn Hot Apple Cider

This warm beverage involves simmering apple cider with a blend of spices, citrus zest, and optional add-ins to create a fragrant, flavorful drink. The final result is a steaming mug of vibrant, aromatic cider with a slightly cloudy appearance and a balance of sweetness, tartness, and spice.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Autumn
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups apple cider, unfiltered
  • 2 sticks cinnamon preferably whole
  • 1 piece orange, zested use a microplane to zest
  • 1 piece lemon, zested use a microplane to zest
  • 1/4 cup cherry juice optional for extra flavor
  • 1 sprig rosemary optional for herbal note
  • to taste sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or sugar) adjust based on sweetness preference

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed Pot
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Pour the apple cider into a heavy-bottomed pot and place it over medium heat.
  2. Add the whole cinnamon sticks, orange zest, lemon zest, and the sprig of rosemary to the cider.
  3. Stir in the cherry juice and sweetener, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, listening for a soft bubbling sound.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the cider simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the aromas to fill your kitchen.
  5. Remove the pot from heat and discard the cinnamon sticks, rosemary sprig, and citrus zest.
  6. Pour the hot spiced cider into mugs and enjoy immediately, savoring the warm, fragrant layers of citrus and spice in every sip.

Notes

Feel free to customize the spice level by adjusting cinnamon and adding other flavors like star anise or cloves. For a stronger citrus aroma, increase the zest quantities. Always taste and adjust sweetness at the end.