In a strange turn of events, last week was surprisingly warm here in Northern Virginia. We’re talking 80 degrees in the first week of November! But, just as soon as it came, it passed, and now we’re back to the usual 40-degree weather we expect this time of year. The recurrence of cold weather has ushered in the acceptance that fall is quickly progressing to almost winter, and that means it’s time to share this recipe that is perfect for the cold days when you need something to warm your insides.
Our friend, Rebecca, over at Good Things Baking Co. has created this delicious Chai Spice Apple Cider, and we are so very happy to share it with you.
Chai Cider Ingredients
- 1 quart (32 oz.) apple cider
- 1 Tablespoon chai spice mix
- 2-3 Tablespoons honey
- 3-4 orange slices
- 1 apple, cored and sliced
- Cinnamon sticks, to garnish
How to Make Chai Spice Apple Cider
Pour the apple cider in a pot. Stir in the chai spice and honey. Add the orange and apple slices to the top.
Heat it over low heat for 2 hours. You don’t want it to boil, but just lightly steam.
After 1 hour, taste the chai apple cider to see if you like the flavors. Adjust them to your liking. You may wish to add more spice or honey. The flavors will continue to develop as it heats, and if they are too strong for your liking you can add water.
Making Apple Cider in the Crockpot
You can also warm the apple cider in a crockpot. It’s actually simpler because you don’t have to keep track of the temperature to make sure it’s not overheating.
To make the Chai Apple Cider in the crockpot, prepare it the same way you would in a pot, but in the insert to your crockpot. Warm it on low heat for 4-6 hours, then adjust the flavors to your liking and serve.
Serving Your Cider Cold
Apple cider is also delicious served cold! It’s more of a punch when you drink it chilled, but still so delicious.
After simmering the apple cider according to the recipe, pour it into a pitcher or bowl. Refrigerate the cider for several hours, or until it’s chilled.
Be sure to stir up the cider before stirring, as the spices can settle to the bottom.
Sweetening the Chai Cider
While honey compliments the spices nicely, you can also sweeten it with brown sugar or maple syrup.
Start with a couple of tablespoons of sweetener, and add more according to your taste. Note that the flavors will become stronger as the cider steeps, so sweeten and season the cider on the light side at first.
The Chai Spice Mix in the Cider Recipe
This cider is made with a chai spice mix, not a bag of tea. You can make your own, and I’ve got a recipe for it that you can find by clicking here. If you prefer not to make it, you can purchase chai spice mix online or at some supermarkets.
Be sure to visit Rebecca’s website to see more amazing recipes like these! You can shop our Floral Apron that she’s wearing in these photos here. And don’t forget to send us pictures if you try out the recipe. Happy Baking!