Nothing screams autumn quite like the aroma of spiced apple cider wafting through the house. But why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your cider game with a touch of gingerbread magic? This recipe for Gingerbread Apple Cider with Cinnamon Sticks isn't just a drink; it's an experience. A cozy, heartwarming experience that’s perfect for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or simply treating yourself after a long day. It really is like liquid gold. My Grandma used to say that food isn't just about sustenance, but about memories that linger, long after the meal has ended. This recipe is one of those. One cold winter when my family didn't have much, we found ourselves at a small gathering, the host offered us some apple cider and I instantly fell in love, and I've been making it ever since. My friends and I went hiking last week and made some hot apple cider, its such a fun time to be alive.
What sets this cider apart from the rest? It’s the perfect blend of sweet apples, warm gingerbread spices, and fragrant cinnamon sticks. The gingerbread spices add a comforting depth that complements the natural sweetness of the apples, while the cinnamon sticks provide a subtle, spicy aroma that fills your home with holiday cheer. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. So, ditch the store-bought stuff and embrace the joy of creating your own homemade masterpiece. You won’t regret it!
This Gingerbread Apple Cider is an incredible drink to serve at Thanksgiving or Christmas. Making this reminds me of going to church with my family and being excited for the holidays. Every time I have a sip I feel like a kid again. Share your thoughts, or better yet, try this drink for yourself. I'm sure you'll have a blast like I did!
Required Equipments
- Large Pot
- Ladle
- Wooden Spoon
- Cheesecloth
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
Gingerbread Apple Cider with Cinnamon Sticks: Frequently Asked Questions
Gingerbread Apple Cider with Cinnamon Sticks
Embrace the warmth of autumn with this delightful Gingerbread Apple Cider recipe, infused with comforting spices and cinnamon sticks. Perfect for cozy evenings and holiday gatherings!
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 8 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Prep the apples: Wash, core, and roughly chop the apples. No need to peel them; the peels add flavor and color to the cider. I usually quarter them – makes it easier to handle!
- Combine ingredients: In a large pot, add the chopped apples, water, sugar, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and a pinch of salt. Give it all a good stir to combine. Remember that time I forgot the salt? Ugh, it just wasn't the same.
- Simmer the mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the apples are very soft and mushy. Your kitchen should smell heavenly by now! Seriously, it's my favorite part.
- Mash the apples: Use a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon to mash the apples in the pot. This helps to release more of their flavor and juices. Don't be shy – really get in there!
- Strain the cider: Line a large bowl with several layers of cheesecloth. Carefully pour the apple mixture into the cheesecloth-lined bowl. Gather the edges of the cheesecloth and twist to form a sack. Squeeze the sack to extract as much liquid as possible. This is where you get a little arm workout in. Be careful; the cider will be hot!
- Discard solids: Discard the solids left in the cheesecloth (or compost them!). These have given all their flavor to the cider, so they're no longer needed.
- Add cinnamon sticks: Pour the strained cider back into the pot. Add the cinnamon sticks and heat gently over low heat for another 15-20 minutes to infuse the cider with cinnamon flavor. This step is totally worth it. It adds so much warmth.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the cinnamon sticks and serve the gingerbread apple cider warm in mugs. Garnish with extra cinnamon sticks, apple slices, or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired. I love adding a little star anise for a festive touch! ah, memories of those cozy evenings.
📝 Notes
- Adjust sweetness to taste. Add more sugar or a touch of maple syrup if desired.
- For a stronger gingerbread flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg.
- Serve warm and garnish with cinnamon sticks and apple slices.
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 120 kcal
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Calcium: 20mg
