Warm Spiced Apple Cider with Cinnamon and Cloves

The perfect way to relax on a cool autumn day.

Nothing says the holidays to me quite like the smell of cider simmering on the stove. If you’ve ever walked into a coffee shop in December and felt your shoulders drop, you know exactly what I mean. This spiced apple cider recipe lets you bring that cozy, spicy-sweet aroma right into your own kitchen, and all it takes is a handful of pantry staples. My warm spiced apple cider simmers on the stovetop with cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg, and it’s honestly the tastiest cider I’ve ever sipped.

That scent takes me straight back to Grandma’s house on Christmas, with candles glowing, a couple of apple pies baking in the oven, and the sound of family laughing and glasses clinking in the background. To this day, I still stop in her doorway every year, take a deep breath, and exhale with a big smile. This cider lets me bottle up a little of that feeling, and now you can too.

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Apple Cider Recipe

Here’s why this one has become my go-to fall drink recipe:

• It’s an easy apple cider recipe. If you can turn on the stove and toss a few spices in a pot, you can make this. Seriously, that’s it.
• It’s naturally sweet. This is a no sugar added apple cider, but the spices make it taste sweeter than you’d expect.
• It’s full of flavor. Cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg turn simple cider into something that tastes like the holidays in a mug.
• It’s a little bit good for you. Spices like cinnamon and cloves are packed with antioxidants, so I like to think of this as a cozy drink with a bonus.
• It’s perfect for a crowd. Apple cider for a crowd doesn’t get much simpler. Just let it simmer and ladle it out as guests arrive.
• It makes your whole house smell amazing. No candle required.

Ingredients Needed

• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 8 cups apple cider, no sugar added

One quick tip: look for real apple cider rather than clear apple juice. Cider is less processed and has a deeper, more rounded apple flavor that holds up beautifully to the spices.

How to Make Warm Spiced Apple Cider

1. In a large soup pot, add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg.
2. Cook over medium-low heat just until fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes.
3. Pour in the apple cider and bring it to a simmer.
4. Simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
5. Strain the cider before serving, then serve hot.

That’s all there is to this stovetop apple cider. Toasting the spices first is my favorite little trick, because it wakes up their flavor before the cider ever hits the pot.

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

I love this recipe exactly as written, but it’s also easy to play around with. Here are a few ideas:

• Whole allspice berries: If you have them, use about a teaspoon in place of the ground allspice. You’ll get the same flavor, and they strain out easily.
• Orange slices or peel: A few slices add a bright, citrusy note that makes this feel like classic mulled apple cider.
• Star anise: One or two pods bring a subtle licorice warmth.
• Fresh ginger: A few thin slices add a little zing.
• A touch of sweetener: If you like your cider extra sweet, stir in a spoonful of maple syrup or honey at the end.
• A splash of something stronger: For an adults-only version, add a little bourbon, spiced rum, or brandy to individual mugs.
• Slow cooker method: Combine everything in a slow cooker and heat on low for about 4 hours. It’s a great hands-off way to keep cider warm at a party.

I’d stick with whole cloves rather than ground, since ground cloves can leave your cider gritty and a bit overpowering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between apple cider and apple juice? Apple cider is typically unfiltered and less processed than apple juice, which gives it a richer, more robust flavor. For this hot apple cider recipe, I always reach for cider.

Is mulled apple cider the same thing as spiced apple cider? They’re very close cousins. Both are apple cider simmered with warm spices. Mulled versions sometimes include citrus or a splash of wine or spirits, but you can easily turn this recipe into mulled cider with a few orange slices.

Can I make homemade spiced apple cider in a slow cooker? Absolutely. Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for about 4 hours, then strain and serve.

How do I make apple cider for a crowd? Simply double or triple the recipe in a larger pot. You can also keep it warm in a slow cooker so guests can help themselves.

How long does leftover cider last? Strained cider will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Do I really need to use apple cider with cinnamon sticks and whole cloves? I think so! Whole spices infuse the cider slowly and give you a clear, smooth drink once strained. Ground spices tend to turn cloudy and gritty.

Can I serve this cold? Yes. Chill leftovers and serve over ice for a refreshing twist.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an easy way to make your home smell like the holidays, this spiced apple cider recipe is it. It’s simple, cozy, and naturally sweet, and it always gets more compliments than I expect. Whether you’re sipping it by yourself on a chilly night or serving it at a party, I hope you love it as much as I do. Let me know what you think in the comments!

More Festive Beverages

If you’re in the mood to fill your holiday table with cozy sips, I’ve got plenty of other favorites to keep your mug full all season long. From creamy and comforting to sweet and a little bit boozy, here are a few more holiday drink recipes worth trying:

• Cinnamon Rice Milk 
• Classic Hot Chocolate
• Crock Pot Gingerbread Latte
• Skinny Pumpkin Spice Latte (pictured above)
• Holiday Apple Pie Martini 

Be sure to follow along on Facebook and Pinterest so you never miss out on the latest and greatest recipes, and more!