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–+ servings
Rosemary Infused Apple Cider 1

Rosemary Infused Apple Cider

This Rosemary Infused Apple Cider transforms the familiar autumn favorite into something truly exceptional—balancing the sweet, crisp notes of apple with the aromatic, pine-like quality of fresh rosemary for a sophisticated twist that's both comforting and unexpected.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Optional Steeping Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Beverage
Cuisine American
Servings 8 cups
Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Non-Reactive Pot
  • Fine-mesh Sieve
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients

  • 8 cups apple cider unfiltered (2 quarts)
  • 4 sprigs fresh rosemary about 4-5 inches each, plus additional for garnish
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 orange sliced into rounds
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 3 star anise
  • 1 inch fresh ginger sliced

Finishing Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey optional, for additional sweetness
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Thoroughly rinse the rosemary sprigs and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Slightly bruise the rosemary by running the back of a knife along the stems to help release the essential oils.
  • Pour the apple cider into a large, non-reactive pot. Add the rosemary sprigs, cinnamon sticks, orange slices, cloves, star anise, and ginger slices.
  • Place the pot over medium heat and slowly bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Avoid boiling, as temperatures above 180°F can destroy delicate flavor compounds. When small bubbles form around the edges, reduce heat to low.
  • Allow the cider to simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, uncovered, to fully integrate the flavors.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup or honey (if using) and vanilla extract. Allow to steep for an additional 10-15 minutes for maximum flavor development.
  • Strain the cider through a fine-mesh sieve into a serving pitcher or directly into mugs. Garnish each serving with a fresh rosemary sprig and a thin slice of orange.

Notes

The flavor actually intensifies by about 20% after 24 hours of refrigeration as the compounds continue to meld.
For a lower sugar version, use a 50/50 blend of unsweetened apple juice and water, then add liquid stevia and a teaspoon of apple extract.
For an adult version, add 1.5 oz of bourbon, spiced rum, or brandy per serving after the cider has been strained.
This can be made in a slow cooker on low for 2-3 hours for gentle heating and convenient serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 0.5gSodium: 10mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 26gVitamin C: 15mg
Keyword Apple Cider, Rosemary, Fall Drink, Autumn Beverage, Herbal Cider
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