Evidence based
This better-than-store-bought cozy cider will have the whole house smelling like fall, with ripe apples and spices simmering on the stovetop. This version is made with cinnamon fasting tea for maximum antioxidants!
Fresh Fruit Flavor
Using ripe in-season apples and cranberries gives this cider optimal flavor that concentrates as they simmer. Ripe apples turn sweet and tart cranberries add tangy flavor that balances the cider. When it comes to apples, try a variety – from honey crisp to Granny Smith – to marry the best apple flavors the season has to offer.
Cranberries not only add a zingy flavor to the cider, but are also great for supporting kidney function and adding antioxidants. Fresh cranberries are readily available in grocery stores throughout the fall and winter.
Cinnamon Herbal Fasting Tea
The cinnamon tea used in this recipe includes a combination of bergamot, which adds orange citrusy notes, and spearmint for a refreshing herb flavor. As the name indicates, there is also plenty of cinnamon, which helps increase satiety and supports healthy blood sugar levels.
Autumn Herbs
Star anise adds a hint of sweet licorice to the cider.
Ground ginger adds warmth and zesty flavor with a small kick of spice. Feel free to add extra ginger for even more spicy flavor.
The best part of homemade cider is having complete control of the ingredients, including the type of sweetener. Raw honey is the perfect complement with a soothing texture and deep flavor. Honey dissolves effortlessly in the hot cider, leaving behind no gritty texture.
Note: this cider is equally delicious sipped hot or chilled for a refreshing drink any time of the day!
Set it and forget it: If you would like to make this cider in a slow cooker, simply add all ingredients to slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until apples are mushy. Mash apples and cranberries and continue to cook for 1 hour before straining.
Ingredients
- 10 cups filtered water
- 6 large apples halved
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 4 pcs small cinnamon sticks
- 1-2 pcs whole star anise
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 cup raw honey
- 2 sachets Pique Cinnamon Herbal Fasting Tea
Instructions
- Add filtered water to a 5-quart Dutch oven or heavy pot. Add apples, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, ginger and star anise to water and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 2 hours or until apples are very soft.
- Mash apples and cranberries using a potato masher or large spoon. Continue to boil 1 hour longer.
- Strain mixture into a large bowl and return to Dutch oven. Stir in cinnamon tea and honey. Ladle into mugs and serve hot.
Recommended for this recipe:
Pique Cinnamon Herbal Fasting Tea
Cozy, comforting and caffeine-free. Unwind your day with a hug in a mug
