South of the Border Cider
Warm your senses with the bold and spicy flavors of South of the Border Cider, a festive twist on traditional mulled drinks. This recipe combines apple cider and orange juice, infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, then elevated with a touch of vanilla, honey (or agave for a vegan-friendly option), and a surprising hint of chili powder for a subtle kick. Fresh lime juice adds a zesty brightness, while the optional splash of tequila transforms this comforting beverage into a spirited treat perfect for adult gatherings. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an irresistibly cozy drink that's ideal for chilly evenings, holiday celebrations, or anytime you're craving a little warmth. Garnished with fresh lime slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon, this cider is as visually inviting as it is delicious.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 cup orange juice
- 2 pieces whole cinnamon sticks
- 5 pieces whole cloves
- 2 pieces star anise
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons honey (or agave syrup for vegan option)
- 0.25 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 0.25 cups tequila (optional, for an adult version)
- 4 pieces lime slices (for garnish)
- 0.25 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for garnish)
Instructions
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the apple cider, orange juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Do not boil.
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture steep for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the vanilla extract, honey (or agave syrup), ground cinnamon, chili powder, and lime juice. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
If using tequila, stir it in just before serving and warm through for 1-2 minutes. Do not let it boil.
Strain the cider through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the whole spices, then pour it into mugs or heatproof glasses.
Garnish each serving with a lime slice and a pinch of ground cinnamon on top.
Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, spiced citrusy cider with a kick!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
227 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.7 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 15 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 47.8 g | 17% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.5 g | 9% | |
| Total Sugars | 38.0 g | ||
| Protein | 1.1 g | 2% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 60 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 415 mg | 9% | |
*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.
