Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Spiced Apple Cider Mocktail is a cozy, refreshing drink that captures the warm flavors of . It combines the natural sweetness of apple cider with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, creating a comforting and flavorful beverage. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or a relaxing evening at home, this mocktail is both festive and easy to make. It can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for any season.

Spiced Apple Cider Mocktail Recipe

Ingredients

4 cups apple cider (fresh or store-bought)
1 cinnamon stick
4 whole cloves
2 star anise pods
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 orange, sliced into rounds
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
Ice cubes (for serving chilled)
Apple slices or cinnamon sticks for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare Spiced Cider: In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, ground nutmeg, and orange slices.
Simmer: Heat over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the spices and orange to infuse the cider. Do not boil to preserve the fresh flavors.
Sweeten (Optional): Stir in maple syrup or honey if a sweeter drink is desired.
Strain: Remove the spices and orange slices by straining the cider into a large pitcher or serving glasses.
Serve:
- Warm: Pour into mugs and garnish with an apple slice or cinnamon stick.
- Chilled: Let the cider cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. Serve over ice with garnish.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Sparkling Version: Add sparkling water or soda for a fizzy twist.
Herbal Notes: Add a few fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs while simmering for a unique flavor.
Apple Ginger Mocktail: Add 1-inch slice of fresh ginger during simmering for a zesty kick.
Cranberry Twist: Mix in 1/2 cup cranberry juice for a tart, festive flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover spiced cider in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat before serving. Avoid boiling.
Chilled Serving: Can be kept chilled in the fridge for the same duration and served over ice.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the spiced cider a day in advance and refrigerate. Reheat or chill before serving.

2. Can I use bottled apple juice instead of cider?

Yes, but fresh or unfiltered apple cider provides a richer, more authentic flavor.

3. Is this drink suitable for kids?

Absolutely, it’s a non-alcoholic mocktail perfect for all ages.

4. Can I add more spices?

Yes, you can adjust cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg to your taste preferences.

5. How can I make it extra sweet?

Add maple syrup, honey, or a pinch of brown sugar while simmering.

6. Can I serve this cold?

Yes, refrigerate after straining and serve over ice.

7. How long can I store it?

Up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

8. Can I use orange juice instead of fresh slices?

Yes, but fresh orange slices add a subtle aroma and visual appeal.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and simmer slightly longer to enhance flavor infusion.

Conclusion

This Spiced Apple Cider Mocktail is a cozy, flavorful drink that’s perfect for any occasion. Its warm spices and natural apple sweetness make it comforting when served hot and refreshing when chilled. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a crowd-pleasing beverage that brings festive flavor and warmth to any gathering.

Chef MARTHA