Fresh-pressed apple cider and tart pomegranate juice are combined with warm mulling spices and citrus to make a cozy hot spiced apple cider—perfect for crisp autumn evenings and holiday gatherings.
Creating This Hot Spiced Apple Cider Recipe
I spotted a gallon of fresh-pressed apple cider in the produce aisle the week before Thanksgiving and immediately imagined a warm, spiced drink. I don’t publish many beverage recipes, but when I make one I savor it. This spiced pomegranate apple cider felt just right—comforting, easy to prepare, and fragrant with spices that make the house smell like the holidays.
After the kids were in bed I spent quiet evenings watching old TV episodes and sipping this cider. With winter arriving, I’m trading some of our usual hot chocolates for new warm drinks like this one.
Ingredients in Hot Spiced Apple Cider
This recipe starts with plain, fresh-pressed apple cider (no added sweeteners or spices), so you’ll make the mulling spice blend yourself. Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need:
Mulling spices:
- Whole cloves
- Whole allspice berries
- Cinnamon sticks
Other ingredients:
- Pomegranate juice
- Fresh-pressed apple cider (no added sugar or spices)
- Brown sugar
- Orange (sliced)
For the full ingredient amounts and printable recipe card, see the recipe block below.
Can the Pomegranate Juice Be Omitted?
If you prefer a classic mulled apple cider, substitute the pomegranate juice with additional fresh-pressed apple cider. If you do, you may want to reduce the brown sugar slightly. Unsweetened cranberry juice is another tart alternative—avoid cranberry cocktail, which is often too sweet.
How to Make Spiced Apple Cider
The stovetop does most of the work—this recipe is hands-off and forgiving. Overview:
- Combine pomegranate juice, apple cider, brown sugar, whole cloves, whole allspice, and cinnamon sticks in a large pot.
- Bring to a rolling boil for about 5 minutes, then add orange slices. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Strain or remove whole spices, place an orange slice in each glass, and serve hot.
- For parties, keep the cider warm in a slow cooker set to low so guests can help themselves.
This is a summary—see the detailed recipe card below for exact measurements and full instructions.
Tips for Making the Best Spiced Apple Cider
Use these tips to get great flavor every time:
- Choose fresh-pressed apple cider, not processed apple juice. Fresh cider has a fuller apple flavor and no added sugars or spices.
- Use whole spices instead of ground—they look nicer in clear glasses and keep the cider from becoming cloudy or gritty.
- Remove whole spices before serving and do not place them directly in each mug.
How to Spike this Spiced Apple Cider
To make an adult version, add a splash of bourbon or whiskey to each cup just before serving. I usually keep this cider non-alcoholic so children can enjoy it, too.
Hot Spiced Apple Cider Garnish Ideas
Dress up each glass with one of these simple garnishes:
- Fresh orange slice
- Dried orange slice
- Pomegranate arils
- Sliced apple
- Fresh cranberries
How to Keep Apple Cider Warm
For gatherings, transfer hot cider to a slow cooker set to low. It stays warm for hours, and the aroma from the mulling spices fills the house.
How Long Does Spiced Apple Cider Last?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a week. Flavors often deepen after a day or two, making the cider even more flavorful.
Try this Easy Hot Apple Cider Recipe!
If you’re planning a holiday party or simply want a warming drink on a chilly night, try this pomegranate spiced apple cider. If you make it, leave a comment with your thoughts and, if you share a photo on social media, tag @goodlifeeats and use #goodlifeeatsrecipes so the creator can see your version.
More Easy Winter Drinks:
Other seasonal favorites include pumpkin spice hot chocolate, spiked peppermint mocha hot chocolate, pumpkin spice chai latte, and a classic wassail. These warm beverages are great for holiday menus and cozy evenings.
Recipe: Spiced Pomegranate Apple Cider
Spiced Pomegranate Apple Cider
Fresh-pressed apple cider balanced with tart pomegranate juice, warmed with whole mulling spices and orange slices for a festive, comforting drink.
Ingredients
- 3 cups Pomegranate Juice
- 4 1/2 cups Pressed Fresh Apple Cider (no added sugar or spices)
- 2 1/2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Whole Cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon Whole Allspice Berries
- 2 whole Cinnamon Sticks
- 1 large Orange, cut in slices
- 1 drop pure orange essential oil, optional
Instructions
- Combine pomegranate juice, apple cider, brown sugar, cloves, allspice, and cinnamon sticks in a medium stockpot or large saucepan.
- Bring to a rolling boil and continue for 5 minutes. Add orange slices, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Strain or remove whole spices. Place an orange slice into each cup and serve hot.
- If serving a crowd, transfer to a slow cooker set to low to keep warm.
Recommended Tools
- Mugs or heatproof glasses
- Measuring spoons
- Glass measuring cup
- Mixing spoon
- Slow cooker (for keeping cider warm)
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 158
Total Fat: 1g • Saturated Fat: 0g • Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 17mg • Carbohydrates: 39g • Fiber: 2g • Sugar: 33g • Protein: 1g
Nutritional information is an estimate provided for convenience.
Did you make this?
I’d love to see your version—share a photo on Instagram and tag @goodlifeeats with #goodlifeeatsrecipes.