Barley Free Hibiscus-Lime Spiced Apple Cider
Warm, jewel-toned, and impossibly fragrant, this spiced cider is the kind of drink that makes a whole house smell like a holiday. Unfiltered apple cider forms the base, and dried hibiscus flowers steep right into it, turning the whole pot a stunning deep ruby-red that looks as impressive as it tastes. Ceylon cinnamon, fresh ginger, and whole cloves layer in gentle warmth, while a strip of lime zest and a splash of fresh lime juice keep everything bright and just a little unexpected. A touch of maple syrup rounds it all out without tipping it into cloying sweetness — you can dial it up or down to your own taste. Every single ingredient here is naturally free of grain-based additives, so there's no label-squinting required, just straightforward whole-food goodness in a mug. Garnish with a lime slice and a sprig of fresh mint for a presentation that feels genuinely special, whether you're serving a crowd or just treating yourself on a cold afternoon.
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 apple cider (unfiltered)
- ¼ cup dried hibiscus flowers
- 2 ceylon cinnamon sticks
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
- 4 whole cloves
- 1 strip lime zest (about 3 inches), pith removed
- 1–2 tbsp maple syrup, or to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
For serving
- lime slices, for serving (optional)
- fresh mint sprigs, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the apple cider, dried hibiscus flowers, Ceylon cinnamon sticks, sliced ginger, cloves, and lime zest strip in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring once or twice, until the cider is steaming and just beginning to bubble at the edges, about 8–10 minutes.
- 2
Reduce the heat to low and steep, uncovered, for 10 minutes, until the cider is a deep ruby-red and fragrant with hibiscus and spice.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!