Red Hot Cider
A warm, spiced cider infused with cinnamon and cloves, enhanced with sweet cinnamon candies and bubbly ginger ale, perfect for cozy gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large stockpot.
- Heat over medium heat until candies are melted.
- Discard spices.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add a few slices of fresh ginger or a pinch of nutmeg. If you don’t have cinnamon sticks, ground cinnamon can be used—just remember to strain the cider before serving. For a lighter version, substitute half of the ginger ale with sparkling water. This drink is perfect for gatherings, so consider making a larger batch for parties.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Red Hot Cider in festive mugs or heatproof glasses for a cozy presentation. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a few cloves for added flair. This drink pairs beautifully with snacks like Toasty Onion Sticks or Crusty White Bread, making it a great choice for holiday gatherings or chilly evenings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Red Hot Cider in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid burning the spices. You can also microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe mug, heating in short intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Hot Cider contains roughly 513 calories, with 7g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 8g 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 Red Hot Cider ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this cider a day in advance. Just follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove.
Is it possible to make a non-alcoholic version?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally non-alcoholic, as it uses apple cider and ginger ale. It's a great option for all ages. If you'd like to add a little more depth, consider infusing some additional spices.
What can I use instead of red cinnamon candy?
If you can't find red cinnamon candy, you can use cinnamon syrup or a combination of sugar and ground cinnamon. Adjust the sweetness to your taste, keeping in mind that the candy adds both flavor and color.
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).