Easy Hot Spiced Cranberry Apple Cider
This festive cider blends crisp apple, tart cranberry, citrus, and whole spices for a fragrant drink that feels like a hug in a mug. Whether you’re hosting or just looking to warm up your week, this recipe has you covered — and now includes fresh ginger, pomegranate juice, and extra spice for deeper flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 cups 1x
Ingredients
8 cups real apple cider
4 cups 100% cranberry juice (not cocktail)
½ cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
8 whole cloves
4 cinnamon sticks
2 star anise pods
1 orange, sliced
1 lemon, sliced (optional)
½ cup fresh cranberries
Twist #1: 1 tsp freshly grated ginger (or 3 thin slices)
Twist #2: ½ tsp ground allspice or 3 whole allspice berries
Twist #3 (Optional): ½ cup pomegranate juice
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a large stockpot.
Simmer over medium heat for 15–20 minutes, uncovered, until fragrant.
Strain (optional) to remove spices and citrus slices.
Serve warm with an optional cinnamon stick or orange wedge.
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g