As the leaves turn golden and the breeze gets cooler, there's nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a mug of warm apple cinnamon cider. Imagine the comforting aroma of cinnamon mingling with the tartness of apple. It’s not just a drink; it's a hug in a mug!

Dive into autumn with this easy-to-make recipe that brings together fresh apple cider, cinnamon sticks, a hint of orange, and optional spices. Whether you're reading a book or having a chat by the fireplace, this cider is your perfect companion. Dive into the flavors of the season!

The recipe:

Ingredients:

• 6 cups of apple cider (You can use store-bought or make your own by juicing fresh, sweet apples)
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2-3 whole cloves (optional)
• 1 orange, sliced (optional)
• 1-2 tablespoons maple sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
• 1 apple, sliced (for garnish, optional)
• Additional ground cinnamon (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preparation of Ingredients:

   • If using, slice the orange and apple thinly.
   • Prepare the cinnamon sticks and cloves.

2. Cooking Process:

   • In a large pot, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, and cloves (if using).
   • If you want additional flavor, you can add the sliced orange to the mixture.
   • If you find your cider isn’t sweet enough, add brown sugar one tablespoon at a time, tasting as you go.

3. Simmer:

   • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
   • Allow it to simmer for at least 20-30 minutes for the flavors to meld. The longer you simmer, the stronger the spice flavor will be.

4. Strain and Serve:

   • Once the cider has reached your desired flavor intensity, strain out the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices.
   • Serve the cider warm in mugs.
   • If desired, garnish each mug with a slice of fresh apple and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

Shop now with confidence for label-checked CLEAN ingredients:

365 by Whole Foods Market - Organic Juice Not from Concentrate - Pasteurized, Honeycrisp Apple

Thrive Market - Organic Cinnamon Sticks

Thrive Market - Organic Maple Sugar

365 by Whole Foods Market - Cloves Whole Organic