Festive Spiced Apple Cider Delight
Embrace the cozy warmth of the holiday season with this Festive Spiced Apple Cider Delight, a perfect addition to any gathering. Infused with aromatic spices and the natural sweetness of fresh fruit, this comforting beverage will fill your home with inviting scents that captivate your guests. Perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or quiet evenings by the fire, this recipe is a simple and delicious way to celebrate. Let the flavors meld together as it simmers in the crock pot, creating a delightful drink that warms both the heart and soul. Enjoy it as-is or add a splash of spiced rum for an adult twist!
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Apple Cider
1 gallon (none)
Whole Nutmeg
2 (none)
Cinnamon Sticks
3-4 (none)
Orange
1 (cut into four wedges)
Apple
1/2 (cut into wedges)
Whole Cloves
20-25 (none)
Crystallized Ginger
3-4 pieces (none)
Brown Sugar
1/4 cup (none)
Cheese Cloth
1 (for holding spices and fruits)
Butcher's String
1 (for tying cheese cloth)
Instructions
1
In a crock pot, pour in the apple cider, filling it up to about three-quarters full. Sprinkle in the brown sugar, stirring gently until dissolved.
2
Using the whole cloves, carefully stick them into the skin of the orange and apple wedges to infuse flavor directly.
3
Place the clove-studded orange and apple wedges along with the remaining spices (nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, crystallized ginger) into the cheese cloth. Gather the edges and tie securely with butcher's string to create a spice pouch.
4
Drop the spice pouch into the crock pot with the cider. Cover and set the crock pot to high heat. Allow it to come to a full boil, which usually takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.
5
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for an additional 2 hours or longer. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will become.
6
When ready to serve, provide a ladle or allow guests to serve themselves directly from the crock pot. If the cider cools down, switch back to high heat until warmed through.
7
For an extra special touch, have a bottle of spiced rum on hand for guests who wish to add a little kick to their cups.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Festive Spiced Apple Cider Delight?
It is a warm holiday beverage made with apple cider, fresh fruits, and aromatic spices simmered in a crock pot.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings.
What is the main cooking vessel used?
A crock pot or slow cooker is the primary appliance used for this recipe.
How much apple cider is needed?
You will need one gallon of apple cider.
What spices are included in the recipe?
The recipe uses whole nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and crystallized ginger.
How do I use the whole cloves?
Carefully stick the cloves into the skin of the orange and apple wedges to infuse flavor directly.
What is the purpose of the cheese cloth?
The cheese cloth is used to create a spice pouch that holds the fruits and spices together for easy removal.
What do I use to tie the spice pouch?
Butcher's string is used to securely tie the edges of the cheese cloth.
How long does it take to reach a boil?
On high heat, it typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to come to a full boil.
How long should the cider simmer?
After reaching a boil, reduce the heat to low and simmer for an additional 2 hours or longer.
Can I simmer the cider longer than 2 hours?
Yes, the longer it simmers, the richer and more developed the flavors will become.
Is there an alcoholic version of this drink?
Yes, you can add a splash of spiced rum to individual cups for an adult twist.
What type of sugar is used to sweeten the cider?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of brown sugar.
How many cinnamon sticks should I use?
The recipe suggests using 3 to 4 cinnamon sticks.
What fruit wedges are included in the spice pouch?
One orange cut into four wedges and half an apple cut into wedges are included.
What is the role of crystallized ginger in the recipe?
Crystallized ginger adds a unique sweet and spicy depth to the flavor profile.
How should I serve the cider?
Serve it directly from the crock pot using a ladle, allowing guests to help themselves.
What should I do if the cider cools down during a party?
Switch the crock pot back to high heat until the beverage is warmed through again.
Is this recipe suitable for Thanksgiving?
Yes, it is a perfect beverage for Thanksgiving and other winter holiday gatherings.
What category does this recipe fall under?
It is categorized as a Punch Beverage.
How much nutmeg is required?
You will need two whole nutmegs for the spice pouch.
Is this drink family-friendly?
Yes, the base recipe is non-alcoholic and suitable for all ages.
What is the first step in the instructions?
Pour the apple cider into the crock pot and stir in the brown sugar until dissolved.
How many whole cloves are needed?
The recipe requires 20 to 25 whole cloves.
How should the orange be prepared?
The orange should be cut into four wedges before sticking the cloves into the skin.
How much apple is used in the mix?
Half of one apple, cut into wedges, is used.
What kind of scent does this cider create in the home?
It creates inviting, aromatic scents of fresh fruit and holiday spices that captivate guests.
Is this a difficult recipe to prepare?
No, it is a simple recipe that involves basic preparation and slow simmering.
What is the total preparation time for boiling and simmering?
Total time is roughly 4 to 4.5 hours including boiling on high and simmering on low.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the cider?
Yes, you can modify the amount of brown sugar based on your personal preference.