Nitrate & Nitrite Free Chamomile & Vanilla Spiced Apple Cider
Warm, fragrant, and deeply comforting, this spiced apple cider is the kind of drink that makes you want to curl up with a blanket and let the world slow down. Fresh-pressed apple cider forms the base, layered with floral chamomile, bright ginger, earthy turmeric, and a whisper of vanilla powder for a flavor that feels both cozy and a little unexpected. Because every ingredient here is a whole, unprocessed food — no cured meats, no packaged mixes, no deli-counter shortcuts — you never have to second-guess what's in your mug. That matters more than people realize, since preservatives like nitrates and nitrites sneak into far more packaged beverages and flavoring blends than most shoppers expect. The gentle steeping method keeps the chamomile delicate and the spices balanced, so nothing turns bitter or harsh. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a drizzle of honey round everything out with just the right brightness and sweetness. It's the kind of recipe you'll make on repeat all autumn and winter long.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 4 cups fresh-pressed apple cider (unfiltered)
- 3 chamomile tea bags (or 3 tsp loose dried chamomile flowers)
- ½ tsp vanilla powder
- 2 sticks ceylon cinnamon
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tbsp honey, plus more to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
For serving
- apple slices or ceylon cinnamon sticks, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the apple cider, Ceylon cinnamon sticks, sliced ginger, and ground turmeric in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Warm, stirring occasionally, until the cider just begins to steam and small bubbles form around the edges, about 8–10 minutes — do not bring to a full boil.
- 2
Reduce the heat to low. Add the chamomile tea bags and vanilla powder, pressing the bags gently to submerge them. Steep for 5 minutes, then remove and discard the tea bags and cinnamon sticks.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!