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Spiked Apple Cider with Bourbon

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This cozy spiked apple cider with bourbon is the ultimate fall drink, combining fresh apple cider, warming spices, and smooth bourbon for gatherings or quiet nights. It’s quick to make, naturally gluten-free, and easily customizable for all tastes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 quart (4 cups) fresh apple cider
  • 3/4 cup bourbon (use 1/2 cup for lighter flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, recommended)
  • 2–3 cinnamon sticks (or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon)
  • 6–8 whole cloves (or pinch ground cloves)
  • 1 whole star anise (optional)
  • 4–6 allspice berries (or 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice, optional)
  • Peel from 1 orange (wide strips)
  • Apple slices, for garnish
  • Additional cinnamon sticks, for serving

Instructions

  1. Pour apple cider into a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Add maple syrup and brown sugar. Stir gently to dissolve.
  2. Add cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, allspice berries, and orange peel. Stir to combine.
  3. Set over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer (5-7 minutes). Do not boil.
  4. Reduce heat to low and steep for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as desired.
  6. Strain out spices and orange peel using a fine mesh strainer.
  7. Off the heat, stir in bourbon. Mix gently.
  8. Ladle hot cider into mugs. Garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy. Keep warm on low heat or in a slow cooker if serving a crowd.

Notes

For a non-alcoholic version, skip the bourbon and add a splash of vanilla extract. Adjust sweetness and spice to taste. Use local, unfiltered cider for best flavor. Keep below a boil to preserve freshness. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider, bourbon, fall drink, spiked cider, autumn cocktail, cozy drink, easy cider recipe, gluten-free, party drink, holiday beverage

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/spiked-apple-cider-with-bourbon-easy-fall-drink-for-cozy-gatherings/