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Spiced Cranberry Cider

Spiced Cranberry Cider

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Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups unfiltered apple cider
  • 2 cups unsweetened cranberry juice
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 1 star anise
  • 1 large orange, sliced into rounds
  • 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries for garnish

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Combine Liquid Ingredients. In a large pot or Dutch oven, pour in the apple cider and the unsweetened cranberry juice. Stir them together over medium heat until they are well combined.
  2. Step 2: Add Spices and Fruit. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise to the pot. Place the orange slices directly into the liquid. Give it a gentle stir to help the sugar dissolve as the mixture begins to warm up.
  3. Step 3: Simmer to Infuse. Bring the mixture to a very gentle simmer. Do not let it reach a rolling boil, as this can change the texture of the juice. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the spices to release their oils and the orange to soften.
  4. Step 4: Garnish and Serve. Taste the cider and add more sugar if you prefer a sweeter drink. Toss in the fresh cranberries during the last 2 minutes of simmering. Use a ladle to pour the hot cider into mugs, ensuring each cup gets an orange slice and a few cranberries for a beautiful presentation.