Carolers Cider
Warm up your winter evenings with Carolers Cider, a festive spin on a classic mulled drink that's perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. This aromatic cider blends the sweetness of apple cider with zesty orange slices, warming cinnamon sticks, and the exotic flair of star anise. Hints of fresh ginger, whole cloves, and a touch of brown sugar deepen the flavor, while a splash of vanilla extract adds a comforting richness. For an adults-only version, optional bourbon or rum enhances the festive cheer, and fresh cranberries or apple slices make for an eye-catching garnish. Ready in just 40 minutes, this easy-to-make holiday favorite is guaranteed to delight your guests with its irresistible scent and soul-soothing warmth.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 cups apple cider
- 1 whole orange
- 3 pieces cinnamon sticks
- 12 pieces whole cloves
- 2 pieces star anise
- 1 2-inch piece fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup optional bourbon or rum
- 0.25 cup optional fresh cranberries
- 1 whole optional sliced apple for garnish
Instructions
Pour the apple cider into a large pot and set over medium heat.
Wash the orange thoroughly and slice it into thin rounds. Add the slices to the pot.
Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise to the cider.
Peel the fresh ginger and slice it into thin pieces. Add to the pot.
Stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract until dissolved.
If desired, add fresh cranberries to the pot for a festive touch.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the cider steep for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Strain the cider through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the spices and solids, then return the liquid to the pot.
If using, stir in the bourbon or rum just before serving (do not boil the alcohol).
Ladle the warm cider into mugs or heatproof glasses. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, a slice of apple, or fresh cranberries, if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1506 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 5.1 g | 7% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.7 g | 3% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 101 mg | 4% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 300.9 g | 109% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.8 g | 67% | |
| Total Sugars | 238.9 g | ||
| Protein | 6.4 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 396 mg | 30% | |
| Iron | 7.6 mg | 42% | |
| Potassium | 2751 mg | 59% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
