Holiday Cider
A warm, spiced apple cider infused with orange, cloves, cinnamon candies, and cinnamon sticks, perfect for festive gatherings and cozy winter evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the orange into 6 wedges and stud each wedge with cloves.
- Set the clove-studded orange wedges aside.
- Combine the apple cider and red cinnamon candies in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Cook until the candies are dissolved and the mixture is thoroughly heated.
- Pour the heated cider mixture into a heatproof punch bowl.
- Add the clove-studded orange wedges and cinnamon sticks to the punch bowl.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of ground nutmeg or ginger to the cider mixture. If you can't find red cinnamon candies, use regular cinnamon sticks or a dash of ground cinnamon for flavor. You can also swap the orange for other citrus fruits like lemon or lime for a different twist. Adjust sweetness by adding more or less candy based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the holiday cider in heatproof mugs and garnish with additional cinnamon sticks or slices of fresh orange for a festive touch. This warm drink pairs beautifully with sweet treats like Pumpkin Fluff Dip or savory snacks like Kraut And Wieners, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover holiday cider can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pour the cider into a pot and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid boiling to maintain the flavors. Alternatively, use a slow cooker on low for serving at gatherings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Cider contains roughly 522 calories, with 11g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (162% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), and iron (78% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 22g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cider mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors may even deepen overnight, enhancing the overall taste.
Is it possible to make a non-alcoholic version?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally alcohol-free and is perfect for all ages. You can enjoy it as is, or add sparkling water or ginger ale before serving for a fizzy twist.
What can I use instead of apple cider?
If you don't have apple cider, you can substitute it with unsweetened apple juice or a mixture of white grape juice and a splash of lemon juice for a similar flavor profile. Adjust sweetness as necessary.
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).