This recipe for homemade hot apple cider comes to us from asweetpeachef.com where Food Writer Lacey Baier shares her favourite way to make this fall and winter treat extra special.
Without fail, I find I am so sad when the summer comes to an end because I think it is my favourite time of year.
But, as the leaves begin to change, the weather starts to cool and I hear those familiar holiday tunes, I realize just how much I love the winter holiday season. I love the food, the time with family and the general hustle and bustle of life as it gets closer and closer to Christmas. I mean, who doesn’t get the urge to tap their feet to Jingle Bells, right?
One way I love to celebrate the holiday season is to break out my easy hot apple cider recipe and share it with my family. I just love the smell of the cinnamon, oranges, cloves, and apples simmering away on the stove. It’s truly better than any candle you could buy.
I hope you try out this easy apple cider recipe. It’s quick and delicious and will make your house smell like Christmas.
How to make hot apple cider:
Categories: Clean Eating, gluten free, holiday, hot drinks, Paleo, Refined Sugar Free
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4 cups
Calories: 126 kcal
Author: Lacey Baier
Ingredients
3 cinnamon sticks
1 tsp black peppercorns
1/2 tsp whole cloves
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
4 cups unsweetened apple juice
1/2 tbsp orange zest
Pure maple syrup, optional for added sweetness
Instructions
Step 1: Combine spices in a sauce pan and cook over medium-high heat until aromatic, about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 2: Add the nutmeg, and stir to combine. Then, add in the apple juice and orange zest. Bring to a boil.
Step 3: Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, depending on how strong you like your cider.
Step 4: Pour juice through a fine-mesh sieve, into a mug. Allow to cool slightly.
Notes
To extend the shelf life of apple cider, strain it through a fine-meshed sieve and store it in the fridge for 7-10 days; in the freezer in an airtight container for up to 12 months.
To store the apple cider in the freezer, transfer it into an airtight container. Make sure you leave a half inch space at the top as apple cider expands when frozen.
