This is a great shortcut! Using apple juice as a base allows you to skip the pressing and straining, giving you a delicious, warm cider in about 20 minutes.
Ingredients
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6 cups high-quality apple juice (unfiltered "cloudy" juice works best for a rustic feel)
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2 cinnamon sticks
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2 whole star anise (optional, for a subtle licorice note)
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6-8 whole cloves
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1/2 orange, sliced into rounds
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1-2 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup (optional, depending on how sweet your juice is)
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Pinch of ground nutmeg
Instructions
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Combine: Pour the apple juice into a large saucepan or pot.
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Spice it up: Add the cinnamon sticks, star anise, whole cloves, and orange slices to the pot. Sprinkle in the nutmeg.
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Heat: Place the pot over medium heat. Bring it to a very gentle simmer (don't let it reach a rolling boil, as this can change the flavor of the juice).
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Steep: Reduce the heat to low. Let the cider simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the spices to infuse their flavor into the juice.
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Sweeten (Optional): Taste the cider. If you want it sweeter or richer, stir in the brown sugar or maple syrup until dissolved.
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Serve: Ladle the warm cider into mugs. You can strain out the whole spices or leave a cinnamon stick and an orange slice in each mug for a beautiful garnish.
Pro-Tips
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The "Cloudy" Secret: If you can find unfiltered apple juice in the refrigerated section, use that! it has more body and tastes more like traditional cider.
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Adult Version: For a "spiked" version, add a splash of dark rum or bourbon to individual mugs before serving.
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Slow Cooker: You can also toss everything into a slow cooker on Low for 3-4 hours—perfect for keeping it warm during a party.