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This warming spicy drink hits the spot on cold winter nights. A blend of gentle spices transforms simple apple juice into a cozy sensory delight that wraps you in comfort.
I first tried this at a Christmas market in Alsace and now I make it every year when it gets cold. My guests always ask for it whenever they come over during winter months.
Ingredients
- 1 liter organic apple juice: gives the perfect natural sweetness as the foundation for this drink
- 2 cloves: add a warm spicy kick - go for darker ones for stronger flavor
- 1 cinnamon stick: brings that signature warmth - Ceylon cinnamon works best for its milder touch
- 1 pinch grated nutmeg: adds a subtle woody note - try to grate it fresh from a whole nutmeg
- 3 cardamom seeds: bring citrusy floral hints - lightly crush them before using
- 1 cap of rum (optional): for a more festive version - amber rum works really well
- 1/2 organic orange, sliced: adds a refreshing tang - make sure to use untreated fruit
Step-by-step Instructions
- Get everything ready:
- Gather all your stuff and slice up the organic orange thinly. If you've got whole cardamom pods, gently crush them to release more flavor. Measure out your rum if you're adding it.
- Mix in the spices:
- Pour the apple juice into a big pot then drop in the cloves, cinnamon stick, nutmeg and cardamom seeds. Add the orange slices and rum if you want. Give it all a gentle stir.
- Heat and let sit:
- Slowly bring the mixture to a boil, stirring now and then. As soon as it starts to bubble, take it off the heat right away and put the lid on. Let it steep for exactly 10 minutes - this timing really matters to get all the flavor without any bitterness.
- Pour and enjoy:
- Strain out all the spices and pour into warmed mugs or cups. You can pop a slim orange slice or tiny cinnamon stick in each cup to make it look nice.
Cinnamon truly makes this drink special. I can still remember the amazing smell that filled my grandma's house when she made this for the whole family gathered around the fire. She always said the quality of apple juice you start with makes all the difference.
Storage tips
You can keep this spiced apple juice in the fridge for 2-3 days in a sealed container. When you want to drink it again, just warm it gently in a pot without letting it boil to keep all those lovely flavors intact. Don't use the microwave as it might mess up how the spices taste.
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Mix it up
Got allergies or don't like certain spices? No problem, swap them out. Apple juice also tastes great with star anise, fresh ginger, or even a few black peppercorns. Looking for something less sweet? Go for unsweetened apple juice and add a touch of chestnut honey if needed.
What to serve with it
This warm apple juice tastes amazing with cinnamon cookies, gingerbread, or speculoos biscuits. For a complete winter snack, serve it alongside apple cake slices or a winter fruit crumble. During the holidays, it makes a tasty alternative to traditional mulled wine.
Background story
This drink comes from Nordic and Alsatian traditions where hot spiced drinks help people stay warm during long winter months. In some parts of France, they also add raisins soaked in rum or Calvados for a more festive version that's often sold at Christmas markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What spices should I use for this drink?
To pack in tons of flavor, add cloves, a cinnamon stick, a sprinkle of grated nutmeg, and a few cardamom seeds.
- → Can I skip the alcohol in this drink?
Absolutely! The rum is optional, and the drink is still tasty and aromatic without it.
- → What pairs well with this spiced drink?
This drink goes great with spiced cookies, shortbread, or slices of gingerbread cake.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Store it in the fridge and reheat it gently when you're ready to enjoy it.
- → Is there a good substitute for apple juice?
You can swap apple juice for pear juice or white grape juice to try something different.