Nitrate & Nitrite Free Spiced Hot Apple Cider
Warm, fragrant, and deeply comforting, this spiced apple cider is the kind of drink that makes a cold afternoon feel like a celebration. Unfiltered apple cider brings a rich, cloudy sweetness that forms the backbone of every sip, while fresh ginger, whole cloves, and Ceylon cinnamon slowly infuse the pot with layers of warming spice. A touch of turmeric adds an earthy depth that you won't quite be able to put your finger on — but you'll definitely notice when it's missing. Many packaged cider mixes and flavored drinks sneak in preservatives that can be a concern for anyone avoiding nitrates and nitrites, but every ingredient here is straightforward and whole. Fresh lemon juice and honey finish things off with a bright, natural sweetness that no artificial additive could replicate. The whole process takes just about twenty minutes on the stovetop, and straining everything into mugs makes for a beautifully clear, aromatic pour. Tuck in a cinnamon stick for serving and it looks as good as it tastes.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 4 cups fresh apple cider (unfiltered)
- 2 ceylon cinnamon sticks
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- 3 whole cloves
- 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, ginger slices, turmeric, and cloves in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring once or twice, until steam rises steadily and small bubbles appear around the edges, about 8–10 minutes.
- 2
Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, until the cider is fragrant and the spices have fully infused.
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