Spiked Apple Cider Recipe
This spiked apple cider recipe is your ticket to warm, spiced goodness with a boozy twist! Whether you're hosting a chilly autumn gathering or curling up by the fire, this crowd-pleasing beverage blends the sweet-tart flavors of apple cider with the perfect kick of alcohol. It’s smooth to make, without stop, customizable, and assured to affect your guests..
Ingredients
- 1 gallon fresh apple cider unfiltered for richer flavor
- 1 cup bourbon or whiskey or rum for a sweeter profile
- 2 cinnamon sticks or 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4 whole cloves or ½ tsp ground cloves
- 1 star anise optional
- 1 orange sliced
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract optional
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
Garnish:
- Apple slices cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Heat the cider: In a large pot over medium heat, bring the apple cider to a gentle simmer (5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Add spices and sugar: Stir in cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, brown sugar, nutmeg, and orange slices. Simmer gently for 10 minutes.
- Spike the cider: Remove from heat. Stir in bourbon, whiskey, or rum and vanilla extract (if using). Adjust sweetness or alcohol to taste.
- Strain and serve: Strain out spices and orange slices if desired. Ladle into mugs, garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks, and serve warm.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Substitutions: Use apple brandy for a fruitier twist or maple syrup for deeper sweetness.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the spiced cider base (without alcohol) up to 3 days ahead. Add liquor just before serving.
- Party Tip: Keep warm in a crockpot on the “warm” setting for easy serving.