Name: Warm Spiced Apple Cider Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups apple cider; 2 slices orange; 2 cinnamon sticks; 1 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced; 1 Tbsp maple syrup; ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

There’s something so cozy and comforting about a steaming mug of spiced cider, especially when it’s made just right. This Warm Spiced Apple Cider Recipe brings together warm spices and fresh ingredients to create a perfect drink to curl up with on a chilly afternoon or to share with friends during the holidays.

Two clear glass mugs filled with warm light brown liquid each have a cinnamon stick placed vertically inside. One mug also has a thin lemon slice floating on top, adding a pale yellow layer against the light brown drink. Both mugs sit on a brown wooden surface, next to a light brown pinecone decorated with white edges and a small light blue leaf. A small part of a bright orange fruit is visible at the bottom right corner. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Warm Spiced Apple Cider Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Warm Spiced Apple Cider Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Warm Spiced Apple Cider Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I honestly can’t get enough of this Warm Spiced Apple Cider Recipe. It’s so simple yet packs a punch with fresh ginger and cinnamon that always bring me right back to those cozy fall moments at home.

Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything in your kitchen—apple cider, cinnamon sticks, and a touch of maple syrup.
Quick to Make: Just about 15 minutes from start to finish, perfect for last-minute warming drinks.
Balanced Flavors: The blend of orange, nutmeg, and fresh ginger creates a cozy tang without being too sweet.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or just a quiet moment, this drink feels like a warm hug in a cup.

Two clear glass mugs filled with warm brown liquid topped with half lemon slices and cinnamon sticks lie on a white marbled surface that looks like a wooden table. One woman's hand with mauve nail polish holds the left mug by its handle from above, and another woman's hand with light skin and a small tattoo gently grips the right mug handle from the side. Around the mugs, there are light brown pinecones with white tips, cinnamon sticks piled together, lemon slices, and one whole orange. The whole scene looks cozy and warm. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Warm Spiced Apple Cider Recipe plays its part. The fresh ginger adds zing and warmth, while cinnamon and nutmeg bring that classic spice note. I always look for fresh ginger root—it makes a world of difference.

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl filled with golden apple cider, two fresh orange slices with bright peels and juicy interiors, two cinnamon sticks with rough textured bark, a thin piece of fresh ginger peeled and sliced showing pale yellow inside, a small white ceramic bowl containing amber maple syrup, a small white ceramic bowl holding finely ground brown nutmeg powder, all arranged symmetrically and balanced, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Apple cider: The natural sweetness base that sets the cozy tone for this drink.
Orange slices: Adds bright citrus flavor which balances the sweetness and spices beautifully.
Cinnamon sticks: They infuse a fragrant, warming spice that’s just irresistible.
Fresh ginger: For that subtle heat and fresh bite that lifts the cider’s depth.
Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that brings rich, mellow sweetness without overpowering.
Ground nutmeg: A little goes a long way in adding nutty warmth that rounds out the spices.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the things I adore about this Warm Spiced Apple Cider Recipe is how easy it is to tweak. I often adjust sweetness or add extra cinnamon sticks depending on the mood — you can make it as mild or bold as you like.

Variation: I once swapped the maple syrup for honey and loved the floral sweetness it added. If you want a deeper spice flavor, toss in a star anise or two next time you make it.
Dairy-Free & Vegan: This recipe is naturally dairy-free and vegan, so it’s perfect for pretty much everyone.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy spice, a few sliced jalapeños simmered briefly give a surprising and delicious warmth.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Warm Spiced Apple Cider Recipe

Step 1: Gather your fresh, simple ingredients

Start by grabbing 3 cups of apple cider, 2 slices of fresh orange, 2 cinnamon sticks, a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger peeled and sliced, a tablespoon of maple syrup, and ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg. This part is easy and quick; prepping the ginger slices is my favorite because you can smell the fresh zing right away.

Step 2: Combine and simmer

Place all ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Keep it at a low simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. Watch closely — when the orange slices start to change color, it's time. Be careful not to let it boil hard or reduce too much—too much evaporation changes the balance.

Step 3: Strain and serve

After simmering, strain the cider through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a heatproof pitcher. This keeps the drink smooth and clear. Then, pour into mugs and return fresh orange slices and cinnamon sticks to each mug for a festive and cozy presentation.

Top Tip

Having made this Warm Spiced Apple Cider Recipe countless times, I’ve picked up some handy tricks that really bring out the best in the flavors — I’m excited to share them with you!

Fresh Ginger Prep: Peel and slice fresh ginger thinly so it releases more flavor quickly during simmering.
Simmer Don’t Boil: Keeping the cider at a low simmer prevents it from becoming too strong or evaporating down too much.
Strain Well: Straining ensures a silky drink without bits of spice or ginger—using cheesecloth intensifies this smoothness.
Sweetness Adjustment: Taste before serving and add a little more maple syrup if you like it sweeter; everyone’s preference is different.

How to Serve Warm Spiced Apple Cider Recipe

Garnishes

I always add an extra cinnamon stick and a slice of fresh orange in every mug — it looks beautiful and boosts those fresh aromas when you take a sip. Sometimes, when hosting, I sprinkle a tiny pinch of freshly grated nutmeg on top for a bit of elegance.

Side Dishes

This cider pairs wonderfully with spiced cookies like ginger snaps or with sharp cheeses and crackers. I’ve also enjoyed it alongside a homemade pumpkin bread — the flavors dance beautifully together.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, I like serving the cider in clear glass mugs to showcase the warm amber color, with star anise floating on top and tied cinnamon sticks with rustic twine resting next to the mugs. It’s a simple trick to make your gathering feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually pour leftover cider into a glass container with a lid and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before serving again, I gently reheat it on the stove so those fresh-spice aromas come back alive.

Freezing

While I haven’t frozen this cider often, I’ve found that freezing and thawing slightly dulls the fresh spice notes. If you decide to freeze it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to revive flavor.

Reheating

Reheating on the stove over low heat is my go-to method. This helps gently bring back the warmth and prevent any bitterness that sometimes develops if microwaved. Stir occasionally and add a small splash of fresh cider if needed to refresh the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this Warm Spiced Apple Cider Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just gently reheat before serving to refresh the flavors.

What can I substitute for maple syrup?

You can use honey, agave nectar, or brown sugar as a substitute depending on your preference. Just keep in mind these options will slightly change the flavor profile.

How long should I simmer the cider?

Aim for 5-10 minutes of gentle simmering—long enough for spices to infuse well without reducing the liquid too much.

Can I make this cider alcohol-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally alcohol-free, so it’s great for everyone including kids and those avoiding alcohol.

Final Thoughts

This Warm Spiced Apple Cider Recipe has become a little ritual for me every fall and winter—it’s like a warm embrace on a chilly day. I hope you enjoy making and sipping it as much as I do. Trust me, once you try this version with fresh ginger and real cinnamon sticks, it’ll be a new favorite for all your cozy moments!