As the cool breeze starts to weave through the air and the winter comes in full swing, my heart resonates with the warmth of the holiday season. While maintaining a balanced and health-centric lifestyle remains a priority, I find that savoring comforting flavors is equally essential. Join me in celebrating this joyous season with a concoction that embodies coziness, warmth and nutrition—my delicious spiced apple cider drink recipe!

Hot apple cider nutrition facts

Hot apple cider is a flavorful blend full of nutritional benefits. Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals from fresh apple juice and infused spices like cinnamon and cloves, it offers a cozy cup brimming with vitamin C, potassium, and the health-boosting properties of these spices, from aiding digestion to boosting immunity. Did you know that among the benefits of apple cider vinegar there’s even constipation relief?

The Essence of Spiced Apple Cider

Nothing quite compares to the aromatic essence of freshly brewed apple cider infused with a blend of fragrant spices. The European and American population knew this well, and in the past they used apples for brewing beverages rather than eating the fruit. This beverage represents comfort and indulgence without compromising on health, and for me personally it evokes tons of joyful memories, as well as providing some much-needed warmth during the winter. Here’s my spiced apple cider drink recipe!

Ingredients:

• 8 cups of fresh apple cider
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 6 cloves
• 1 orange (sliced)
• 1 lemon (sliced)
• 1-inch fresh ginger (sliced)
• Optional: a dash of nutmeg or star anise for added depth

Instructions:

• In a large pot, pour the apple cider and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
• Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, sliced oranges, lemons, and the fresh ginger into the pot. Infuse for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to intermingle. The cider is ready when it reaches your desired level of spice.
• Ladle the spiced apple cider into mugs. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Pleasures

Pairing this delicious spiced apple cider is actually quite easy. Personally, I love serving it with one of the many great winter desserts that my friends and family love. From indulging in warm apple pie cinnamon rolls and apple cider muffins to relishing vegan cinnamon rolls, the possibilities are endless. I particularly love pairing it with my Holiday Chocolate Bark! These delicacies not only complement the cider's flavors but also elevate the experience of savoring winter comfort foods, possibly after a workout, as you watch a Christmas movie with your loved ones and enjoy the fire crackling in your fireplace.

Looking for more inspiration on winter recipes? Check out my Thai Red Curry recipe and this delicious Ramen, ready in only 12 minutes!