From cooler temperatures and pumpkin patches, to spooky decorations and colorful foliage, it’s hard to imagine that the fall season could get any better. But take it from us, we think it just did.
While there are plenty of things that are sure to get you into an autumn mood, there is just something about cider that really does the trick. Cold or hot, tangy or sweet, apple cider is a staple of this festive season. Not only does it taste good, but fresh cider, being made from fermented apples, is high in Vitamin C and antioxidants.
But what is truly the best part of this seasonal favorite is that there is virtually no liquor it doesn’t pair well with. Literally. From Brandy and Sangria, to Bourbon and Apple and Pie, here are a few of our favorite Spiked Cider recipes to get you into the fall “spirit.”
Martha Stewart’s Apple-Pie Spiced Cider
Courtesy of marthastewart.com
1 1/4 quarts apple cider • 3 tablespoons firmly packed light-brown sugar
7 whole cinnamon sticks, (6 sticks for garnish) • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger • Ground cloves • Freshly grated nutmeg • Salt
1/2 cup Calvados, or other brandy (optional)
In a medium saucepan, whisk together cider, sugar, spices, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Remove from heat; pour in brandy, if desired. Strain into a pitcher; discard solids. Serve in mugs, garnished with cinnamon sticks.
Rachael Ray’s Spiked Apple Cider
Courtesy of rachelraymag.com
2 quarts apple cider • 1 cup apple brandy • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cardamom • 1 teaspoon curry powder
In a large pot, combine all the ingredients over high heat and bring to a simmer. Lower the heat and keep warm. To serve, strain through a fine mesh sieve into a heatproof pitcher and pour into mugs.
Sally’s Baking Addiction’s Apple Cider Autumn Sangria
Courtesy of sallysbakingaddiction.com
2 cinnamon sticks, plus more for serving • 2 medium apples, thinly sliced
1 medium pear, thinly sliced • 1 medium orange, thinly sliced • ⅔ cup pomegranate seeds
1 (750 ml) bottle white wine • 2 cups apple cider • ½ cup brandy • ¼ cup orange juice
2 Tablespoons lemon juice • club soda, for serving
Instructions
1. Place the cinnamon sticks and fruit into a large pitcher. Add wine, apple cider, brandy, orange juice, and lemon juice. Allow to sit in the refrigerator for 3 – 24 hours (6-8 hours
is best!).
2. Pour the sangria and fruit into glasses. Add a splash of club soda. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, if desired.
Julie Blanner’s Easy Spiked Apple Cider with Bourbon
Courtesy of julieblanner.com
1/2 gallon apple cider • 2-3 c bourbon • 1 apple sliced • 1 pear sliced
6 cinnamon sticks • star of anise
1. In a large pot, combine cider, bourbon, apple, pear, cinnamon sticks and star of anise
over medium-low for 10 minutes.
2. Reduce to low and serve warm.
