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Cozy Spiked Apple Cider with Cinnamon Whiskey Recipe

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This spiked apple cider with cinnamon whiskey is a warm, comforting fall drink that comes together in under 20 minutes. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, with a smooth blend of apple cider, cinnamon, and whiskey that feels like a warm blanket in a mug.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups apple cider (unfiltered, if possible)
  • 1/2 cup cinnamon whiskey (e.g., Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire or Fireball)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 medium orange (sliced into thin rounds)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure)
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 1 star anise (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Combine the base ingredients: Pour the 4 cups of apple cider into a medium saucepan. Add the 2 cinnamon sticks, 4 whole cloves, 1 star anise, and the sliced orange rounds. If using brown sugar, stir it in now. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Heat gently: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer (small bubbles around the edges, not a rolling boil). This takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Add the vanilla and salt: Once simmering, stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the pinch of salt. Stir gently for about 30 seconds.
  4. Reduce heat and steep: Turn the heat to low. Let the cider steep for another 5 to 8 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.
  5. Remove the spices: Using a fine-mesh strainer or slotted spoon, remove the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and orange slices. Optionally leave one cinnamon stick in the pot for visual appeal.
  6. Add the whiskey: Turn off the heat. Pour in the 1/2 cup of cinnamon whiskey and stir gently.
  7. Taste and adjust: Taste the cider and adjust sweetness or spice level as needed. Add more brown sugar or a cinnamon stick if desired.
  8. Serve immediately: Ladle the spiked apple cider into mugs. Garnish each mug with a fresh cinnamon stick and a thin slice of orange, if desired.

Notes

Don’t rush the steeping process; the spices need time to release their flavors. Keep the heat at a gentle simmer to avoid cloudiness or bitterness. Measure the whiskey carefully—start with 1/3 cup if you prefer a milder drink. You can make the cider base (without whiskey) up to 2 days ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: spiked apple cider, cinnamon whiskey, fall drink, warm cocktail, apple cider recipe, cozy drink, mulled cider

Find it online: https://perkypan.com/cozy-spiked-apple-cider-with-cinnamon-whiskey-recipe/