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–+ servings
Vanilla Bean Apple Cider 1

Vanilla Bean Apple Cider

Transform ordinary apple cider into an extraordinary seasonal beverage with the delicate complexity of real vanilla beans. This homemade recipe honors the natural partnership between freshly pressed apples and vanilla, creating a warming drink that's perfect for quiet moments or festive gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Optimal Steeping Time 1 hour
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Beverages
Cuisine American
Servings 8 cups
Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Fine-mesh Sieve
  • Sharp Paring Knife

Ingredients
  

Basic Ingredients

  • 1 gallon fresh apple cider unfiltered preferred
  • 2 whole vanilla beans split lengthwise
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 1 orange sliced into rounds
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 1 star anise pod
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup optional, for added sweetness
  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Instructions
 

  • Split the vanilla beans lengthwise with a sharp paring knife, revealing the seeds inside. Gently scrape some of the seeds directly into the pot—but leave most still attached to the pod.
  • Pour the apple cider into a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the split vanilla beans (with seeds), cinnamon sticks, sliced orange rounds, cloves, and star anise.
  • Bring the mixture to a very gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Once small bubbles appear at the edges (around 180°F), immediately reduce heat to low. Never allow the cider to boil.
  • Let the cider simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, though 1-2 hours will develop significantly more complex flavors. Stir occasionally to ensure even heat distribution.
  • In the last 5 minutes of simmering, add the freshly grated nutmeg and maple syrup if using. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
  • Remove the cider from heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a serving vessel or directly into pre-warmed mugs. For guests, consider leaving one vanilla bean and cinnamon stick in the serving vessel for visual appeal.

Notes

Substitution Options:
  • No vanilla beans? Use 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (add during the final 5 minutes of simmering)
  • For a sugar-free version, replace maple syrup with monk fruit sweetener or stevia to taste
  • Apple juice can substitute for cider in a pinch, but the flavor profile will be lighter and less complex
  • For a caffeine boost, add 2 bags of chai tea during the last 10 minutes of simmering
Serving Suggestions:
  • Serve in clear glass mugs to showcase the beautiful amber color
  • Garnish with a fresh apple slice and cinnamon stick for presentation
  • Create a self-serve cider bar with add-in options: caramel drizzle, whipped cream, or a dash of rum for adults
Storage Tips:
  • Store leftover cider in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in a tightly sealed container
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop rather than microwave to preserve volatile aromatics
  • Freeze in ice cube trays to add apple-vanilla flavor to winter cocktails or tea

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 29gFiber: 0.5gSugar: 23gVitamin C: 15mg
Keyword Apple Cider, Vanilla Bean, Fall Drinks, Hot Beverages, Holiday Drink
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