A Cinematic Christmas Warm Apple Cider Recipe

This festive and nostalgic recipe for a warm apple cider transports you to a cosy family gathering during the holiday season, with its rich blend of spices, citrus notes, and sweet undertones. Perfect for sipping on a frosty winter's day, this Christmas Warm Apple Cider is an essential addition to your festive feast.

Time: Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Allergens

This recipe contains allergens such as spices and citrus fruits, which could cause an allergic reaction in some individuals. Please be aware of these ingredients if you or a guest has an allergy to them.

Ingredients

2 quarts apple cider (or apple juice)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
2 whole star anise
1 strip of lemon zest (yellow part only)
1 strip of orange zest (yellow part only)
2 cinnamon sticks (optional, for serving)

Instructions

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine the apple cider, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, ground cloves, ground cardamom, star anise, lemon zest, and orange zest. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and combine the spices.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugar and spices are evenly distributed. Do not let it come to a full boil or the cider may reduce too much.
Once the cider reaches a simmer, lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer for 15 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and become infused into the cider.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the spices to further infuse into the cider without overpowering it.

Chef’s Insight

To add a touch of alcohol to this beverage, consider adding a splash of brandy or spiced rum to each mug before serving.

Notes

Remember to be cautious when handling hot liquids and use oven mitts or a towel to protect your hands while serving.

Substitutions

You can substitute the apple cider with apple juice if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. For a lower sugar option, reduce the amount of granulated sugar according to taste preference.

Alternative Preparations

To make this recipe ahead of time, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and set it on low for 2 hours before serving. Alternatively, you can store the spices separately and add them just before serving to keep the cider warm.

Alternative Methods

You can also heat the apple cider mixture in a Crock-Pot or on the stovetop using different pots if you don't have a saucepan large enough.

Best Storage Practice

If you have leftover cider, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving again.

Shelf Life

The freshness of the spices and citrus zests significantly impact the taste of this warm apple cider. For the best flavor, consume within a day or two of making it.

Plating Tips

Serve the Christmas Warm Apple Cider in heatproof mugs or cups to hold the warmth. Optionally, garnish with a cinnamon stick and a few whole cranberries for added festivity.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size is approximately 1 cup. This recipe contains 200 calories per serving, with 50 calories from fat. The cider provides essential nutrients like vitamin C from the citrus zests and antioxidants from the apples.