Spiced Apple Cider Tea

This warming Spiced Apple Cider Tea combines the best of two beloved drinks – the fragrant complexity of tea with the sweet-tart goodness of apple cider. Perfect for fall weather, this comforting beverage offers the perfect balance of familiar comfort and exciting flavor.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Steeping Time 10

Total Time 25

Course Beverage

Cuisine American

Servings servings

Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

Medium Saucepan
Fine-Mesh Strainer

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 cups fresh apple cider unfiltered works best for richer flavor
2 black tea bags Ceylon or English Breakfast
3 cinnamon sticks or 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
6 whole cloves
3 star anise pods
1 small orange thinly sliced
2 inch fresh ginger sliced
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup optional for additional sweetness
1 dash freshly grated nutmeg

Instructions

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and sliced ginger. Toast the spices over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Pour the apple cider into the saucepan with your toasted spices. Add the orange slices. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, avoiding vigorous boiling.
Once your spiced cider reaches a simmer, remove it from heat and add the tea bags. Allow them to steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on how strong you prefer your tea flavor.
Remove the tea bags after steeping. If using sweetener, add honey or maple syrup now while the mixture is still warm but not hot. Stir gently until dissolved.
Using a fine-mesh strainer, pour the Spiced Apple Cider Tea into a serving pitcher or directly into mugs, capturing all the whole spices and orange slices.
Pour into warmed mugs. Garnish each serving with a fresh cinnamon stick, a slice of orange, and a light dusting of nutmeg. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a caffeine-free version, use rooibos tea bags instead of black tea.

Apple juice can replace cider in a pinch (though you'll miss some of the complex flavors).

Ground spices (½ teaspoon each) can substitute for whole versions if needed.

For a sugar-free option, use monk fruit sweetener or stevia to taste.

Store cooled leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For an adult version, add 1 oz of bourbon, spiced rum, or apple brandy per serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 0.2gFat: 0.3gFiber: 0.5gSugar: 26gVitamin C: 15mg

Keyword Apple Cider, Tea, Fall Drink, Autumn Beverage, Spiced Drink

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