Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups of fresh apple cider
- 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup of bourbon (adjust to taste)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3-4 whole cloves
- 1 orange, sliced
- Optional: star anise or fresh ginger slices for extra flavor
Instructions
- Start by assembling all your ingredients. Measuring the maple syrup and bourbon precisely ensures the perfect balance of flavors in your cider.
- Pour the apple cider into a large pot or slow cooker. Heat over medium heat until hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices to the warm cider. For deeper flavor, include star anise or fresh ginger slices. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes to release the spices’ aroma.
- Stir in the maple syrup, dissolving it thoroughly into the cider. Add the bourbon, then stir well. Taste and adjust bourbon if desired.
- Ladle the hot maple bourbon apple cider into mugs. Garnish with an orange slice or a cinnamon stick for presentation.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of bourbon based on your preference for alcohol strength.
- If you like a sweeter cider, add extra maple syrup.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon and replace it with apple juice or a splash of apple flavor extract.
- Keep the cider warm in a slow cooker on low heat to serve guests throughout your gathering.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop / Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug (about 8 oz)
- Calories: 150 Kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
