Ingredients

  • 4 cups apple cider
  • 1 whole orange, sliced
  • 2 sticks cinnamon
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 3 whole star anise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, pour in the apple cider and place it over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, and sliced ginger to the pot.
  3. Stir in the maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, but do not let it boil.
  5. Allow it to simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, covered, to let all the spices infuse the cider.
  6. After simmering, taste the cider and adjust sweetness if necessary with more maple syrup.
  7. Strain the cider through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into mugs or a serving pitcher to remove the spices.
  8. Serve the cider warm, garnished with fresh cranberries if desired.

💡 Chef's Notes

Serve in clear glass mugs for a beautiful presentation.

Recipe by Sierra Lennox - Food Photographer