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Maple Apple Cider

Maple Apple Cider
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Maple Apple Cider is the ultimate cozy fall drink blending fresh apple cider with the natural sweetness of pure maple syrup and warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings, this comforting beverage is easy to make, versatile to serve hot or cold, and offers a delightful aroma and taste that celebrates the essence of autumn.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh, unfiltered apple cider
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1 strip of orange peel (about 2 inches long)
  • 1/2 cup water (optional, to dilute if desired)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather apple cider, pure maple syrup, cinnamon sticks, cloves, freshly grated nutmeg, and a strip of orange peel. Ensure spices are whole and fresh to maximize flavor release during cooking.
  2. Combine and Heat: In a medium saucepan, pour in the apple cider. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange peel. Heat gently over medium heat until just before boiling, allowing the spices to infuse the cider with their aromatic oils.
  3. Sweeten with Maple Syrup: Stir in the maple syrup. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness gradually by adding more syrup if needed, starting with less to avoid overpowering sweetness.
  4. Simmer and Infuse: Reduce heat to low and allow the cider to simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes. This process deepens the flavors, slightly thickens the cider, and enhances the warm spice notes.
  5. Strain and Serve: Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the spices and orange peel. Pour into mugs, garnish as desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use fresh whole cinnamon sticks and whole cloves for richer and more vibrant flavors compared to ground spices.
  • Add maple syrup slowly and taste frequently, as sweetness can vary between brands.
  • Simmer gently to avoid bitterness from over-boiling the spices.
  • For a subtle heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper if desired.
  • Try swapping orange peel with lemon or grapefruit peel for a different citrus aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: fall drink, maple apple cider, autumn beverage, warm cider, spiced cider, cozy drinks, gluten free drink

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/maple-apple-cider/