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–+ servings
Two mugs containing spiked apple cider with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick.

Spiked Apple Cider

Cozy up with a warm mug of Spiked Apple Cider! This easy fall cocktail combines fresh apple cider, a hint of citrus, warming spices, and a splash of rum (or your favorite spirit) for a crowd-pleasing drink that's perfect for holiday parties or chilly autumn nights.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 12 servings

Ingredients  

  • 8 cups apple cider or apple juice
  • 1 orange, thinly sliced (with rind intact)
  • 1 Tablespoon nutmeg
  • 1 Tablespoon allspice
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 cups rum
  • 1 large red apple, cut into 8 wedges
  • 8 whole cloves
  • 2 Tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions 

  • Combine the apple juice, orange slices, nutmeg, allspice, cinnamon sticks, vanilla extract and rum in a large pot set over medium heat.
  • Pierce one clove into the skin of each of the apple wedges then add them to the pot.
  • Let simmer until heated throughout, about 15-20 minutes. Be careful not to let your cider come to a boil—it just needs to simmer gently. Boiling can cook off too much alcohol and muddle the flavors.
  • Strain the spiked cider into cups and serve.

Notes

  • Make it in a slow cooker: Combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker and set it to low for about 2 hours. Keep it on the warm setting during the party for easy refills.
  • When serving a crowd, I often skip the rum for a delicious, non-alcoholic mulled cider that everyone can enjoy. Then, I set out a variety of liquors so my guests can spike their own glass.
  • Cinnamon sticks, orange slices or even a dollop of whipped cream make for fun garnishes to add to each mug.
  • ★ Did you make this recipe? Don't forget to give it a star rating below!