December Cider
A warm, spiced cider blend of apple, cranberry, and lemon juices infused with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, perfect for festive gatherings and cozy winter evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4-quart kettle, combine the apple juice, cranberry-apple juice, and water.
- Stir in the lemonade, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon sticks.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove the cloves and cinnamon sticks before serving.
- Stir in rum or cinnamon Schnapps if desired.
- Pour into mugs or glasses and serve warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a few slices of fresh ginger while simmering. You can substitute the frozen juices with fresh juice if you prefer a more natural taste, just adjust the sweetness accordingly. If you want a non-alcoholic version, skip the rum or Schnapps and boost the spices for extra warmth. This cider pairs beautifully with Dot'S Red Hot Apple Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this warm cider in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick for a festive touch. It makes a delightful drink for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings. Pair it with sweet treats like cookies or savory snacks like cheese platters for a balanced experience. It's also a great accompaniment to hearty dishes like Goulash Slop.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat until hot, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. Avoid boiling the cider after it has been refrigerated to preserve the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of December Cider contains roughly 1104 calories, with 10g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 557mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cider in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cider a day ahead. Simply follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving. This can save you time during holiday events or gatherings.
Is it possible to make this cider non-alcoholic?
Absolutely! Simply omit the rum or cinnamon Schnapps, and you’ll have a delicious non-alcoholic version. You can still enjoy all the warm flavors and spices, making it perfect for all ages.
What can I serve with December Cider?
This cider pairs well with a variety of snacks and desserts. Consider serving it alongside sweet pastries, spiced cookies, or even savory appetizers like a cheese board. It creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for any gathering.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).