A Cozy Vegan Spiced Cider Cocktail for Your Holiday Party

What kind of recipe is it?

The Vegan Spiced Cider Cocktail is a delightful and festive beverage perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

This warm, aromatic drink combines fresh apple cider with a blend of warming spices like cinnamon and cloves, creating a cozy experience for all.

It’s a fantastic choice for vegans and those seeking a non-alcoholic option without compromising on flavor.

This cocktail is perfect for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or a relaxing night in, appealing to anyone looking to enjoy a comforting, plant-based drink.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh apple cider	4 cups
Ground cinnamon	1 teaspoon
Whole cloves	6-8 cloves
Ground nutmeg	1/2 teaspoon
Orange (for juice and garnish)	1 large orange
Maple syrup (or agave syrup)	2 tablespoons
Star anise (optional)	1-2 pieces
Fresh ginger (sliced)	1-2 inches
Vanilla extract (optional)	1 teaspoon
Lemon slices (for garnish)	1 lemon, sliced

These ingredients combine to create a flavorful and aromatic Vegan Spiced Cider Cocktail that is warm and satisfying for any occasion.

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Cooking Steps

Measure 4 cups (960 ml) of fresh apple cider and set aside. Juice the large orange to obtain about 120 ml (1/2 cup) of juice and reserve the rinds for garnish.
In a medium-sized saucepan (3-4 liters or 3-4 quarts capacity), combine the apple cider, orange juice, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 6-8 whole cloves, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup (or agave syrup), optional 1-2 pieces of star anise, and 1-2 inches of sliced fresh ginger.
Place the saucepan on the stovetop over medium heat (approximately 180-190 °F / 82-88 °C). Stir the mixture gently to dissolve the maple syrup entirely.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 10-15 minutes. Watch for steam rising and a slight bubbling (not a full boil). This will help the flavors meld.
Once the mixture is simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Allow the cider to steep for an additional 10 minutes; this will deepen the flavor, with fragrant aromas of spices filling the kitchen.
After steeping, remove the saucepan from heat and strain the cider through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a heatproof pitcher or bowl, discarding the solid spice ingredients.
Taste the strained cider and adjust sweetness if needed by adding a little more maple syrup, and stir gently if adjustments were made.
To serve, heat the cider again on low if it has cooled, ensuring it reaches about 170-180 °F (77-82 °C).

Pour the spiced cider into heatproof mugs or glasses, and garnish each serving with a lemon slice and orange rind. Enjoy the warm, spiced aroma and vibrant color as you serve your Vegan Spiced Cider Cocktail.

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Variations

Spiced Pear Cider: Substitute half of the apple cider with fresh pear juice (2 cups / 480 ml) for a sweet, fruity twist.
Cranberry Citrus Cider: Add 1 cup (240 ml) of cranberry juice, and include a few fresh cranberries for a tart punch and vibrant color.
Ginger Turmeric Cider: Incorporate 1-2 teaspoons of grated fresh turmeric along with the ginger for an earthy flavor and added health benefits.
Spiked Cider Variations: Add 60-120 ml (2-4 oz) of rum or bourbon before serving for a warm, alcoholic version of your cocktail, perfect for cozy gatherings.

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Tips on plating and presentation

While crafting your Vegan Spiced Cider Cocktail, paying attention to presentation can elevate the drinking experience.

Use clear glass mugs to showcase the warm, inviting color. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a slice of fresh apple for a pop of color.

A sprinkle of nutmeg on top adds flair. Set your drinks on a rustic wooden tray for a cozy vibe. Enjoy!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

When thinking about food pairings for your Vegan Spiced Cider Cocktail, consider dishes that complement its warm, spiced notes.

I’ve found that roasted butternut squash soup, spiced lentil stew, or maple-glazed Brussels sprouts work beautifully.

For a lighter option, a fresh arugula salad with cranberries and pecans balances the richness.

These dishes create a delightful holiday feast that’ll surely impress your guests.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

To enhance your Vegan Spiced Cider Cocktail experience, I often recommend pairing it with drinks that echo its warm spices and fruity notes.

A light Pinot Grigio or a spiced cranberry spritzer can complement the cider beautifully.

If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, try a ginger ale infused with cinnamon or a chai tea.

These combinations elevate the festive atmosphere perfectly!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?

Absolutely, you can make this cocktail non-alcoholic! Just substitute the alcoholic ingredients with your favorite juice or soda, and you’ll still enjoy all the delicious spices and flavors. It’s a festive treat for everyone!

How Long Can I Store Leftover Spiced Cider?

I usually store leftover spiced cider in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh and flavorful for those cozy moments later!

What Is the Best Serving Temperature for This Cocktail?

I prefer serving this cocktail warm, around 160°F. It really enhances the flavors and creates that cozy vibe. Just make sure to give it a stir before pouring to keep everything mixed nicely!

Can I Use Fresh Spices Instead of Ground Ones?

I love using fresh spices for a more vibrant flavor. Just remember to adjust the quantities since fresh spices can be more potent. You’ll end up with a delightful and aromatic drink experience!

How Can I Adjust the Sweetness Level of the Cocktail?

I usually adjust sweetness by adding more maple syrup or agave nectar for a richer flavor. Alternatively, I try diluting with more cider or unsweetened juice, tasting as I go until it’s just right.