Here’s a list of all the ingredients for a **hot spiced cranberry cider**, optimized with SEO-friendly formatting and keywords:
- **Fresh cranberries** (or frozen cranberries for convenience)
- **Apple cider** (unsweetened for a natural flavor)
- **Cinnamon sticks** (for warm, aromatic spice)
- **Whole cloves** (adds depth and holiday flavor)
- **Star anise** (for a subtle licorice-like sweetness)
- **Orange peel** (or fresh orange slices for citrusy brightness)
- **Fresh ginger** (adds a zesty, warming kick)
- **Brown sugar** (or maple syrup for natural sweetness)
- **Water** (to balance the flavors and consistency)
- **Optional: Vanilla extract** (for a creamy, aromatic finish)
- **Optional: Nutmeg** (ground or whole for extra warmth)
This **hot spiced cranberry cider** recipe is perfect for **holiday drinks**, **winter beverages**, or **cozy fall gatherings**. It’s a **festive drink** that combines **cranberry flavor** with **warming spices** for a comforting treat.
Steps
# How to Make Hot Spiced Cranberry Cider: A Festive Holiday Drink
Warm up your holiday season with this delicious **hot spiced cranberry cider** recipe. Perfect for cozy gatherings or chilly evenings, this drink combines the tartness of cranberries with the warmth of spices. Follow these easy steps to create a crowd-pleasing beverage that’s both festive and comforting.
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## **Ingredients for Hot Spiced Cranberry Cider**
- 4 cups **cranberry juice** (100% juice for best flavor)
- 2 cups **apple cider** (or apple juice for a sweeter taste)
- 1/2 cup **fresh cranberries** (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup **maple syrup** or **honey** (adjust to taste)
- 2 **cinnamon sticks**
- 4-5 **whole cloves**
- 2-3 **star anise pods**
- 1 **orange** (sliced into rounds, plus zest for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 tsp **ground nutmeg** or **ginger** for extra spice
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Ingredients**
- Rinse the fresh cranberries and set aside.
- Slice the orange into thin rounds and zest a small portion for garnish.
### **2. Combine the Liquids**
- In a large pot, combine the **cranberry juice** and **apple cider**. Stir gently to mix.
### **3. Add Sweetener and Spices**
- Pour in the **maple syrup** or **honey** for sweetness.
- Add the **cinnamon sticks**, **whole cloves**, **star anise**, and optional **nutmeg** or **ginger** for a spiced flavor.
### **4. Simmer the Mixture**
- Place the pot on the stove over medium heat. Add the **fresh cranberries** and **orange slices**.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to preserve the flavors.
### **5. Infuse the Flavors**
- Let the cider simmer for **15-20 minutes**, allowing the spices and cranberries to infuse. The cranberries will soften, and the liquid will turn a rich, deep red.
### **6. Strain and Serve**
- Use a fine-mesh strainer to remove the spices, cranberries, and orange slices.
- Ladle the hot spiced cranberry cider into mugs or heatproof glasses.
### **7. Garnish and Enjoy**
- Garnish each serving with a fresh **cinnamon stick**, a few **cranberries**, and a sprinkle of **orange zest**.
- Serve warm and enjoy the festive flavors!
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## **Tips for the Perfect Hot Spiced Cranberry Cider**
- **Adjust Sweetness:** Taste as you go and add more sweetener if needed.
- **Make It Boozy:** Add a splash of **spiced rum** or **bourbon** for an adult version.
- **Storage:** Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
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This **hot spiced cranberry cider** is a must-try holiday drink that’s easy to make and full of seasonal flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Cheers to a warm and festive season!