Cozy & Sugar-Free: The Best Non-Alcoholic Spiced Apple Cider Recipe for Fall

There’s something truly enchanting about a steaming mug of hot spiced apple cider as the crisp air of autumn embraces us. Imagine the warm, comforting scent of cinnamon and cloves wafting through your kitchen, the gentle steam rising from your favorite mug, and the beautiful golden hue catching the soft afternoon light. This isn’t just a drink; it’s the essence of fall, bottled and ready to be savored.

Our delightful spiced apple cider recipe is crafted with 100% natural apple juice and infused with an aromatic blend of real fall spices. What makes it even more special? There’s no added sugar and absolutely no alcohol required, making it a perfectly family-friendly beverage. It’s like a liquid warm hug, ideal for sipping under a soft blanket with a cherished book, or for sharing with loved ones around a crackling fire.

And the best part? You only need a handful of simple ingredients and about 30 minutes of your time to bring this autumn magic to life.

If you’re as captivated by the charm of fall as I am, you’ll find that this non-alcoholic spiced apple cider pairs wonderfully with a variety of seasonal treats. Imagine indulging in my buttery leaf-shaped sandwich cookies – they’re like edible autumn leaves! For a memorable dessert night, serve it alongside my comforting apple crisp without oatmeal, or our creamy, dreamy custard apple tart. Looking for something extra festive? My no-bake pumpkin cheesecake and the vibrant apple cider Moscow mule (for the adults, of course!) are always crowd-pleasers during the fall season. 🍂

As soon as the leaves begin to turn golden and red, I make it a point to keep a batch of this delightful homemade spiced apple cider in the fridge. There’s such immense joy in warming up a mug after a refreshing walk through crunchy autumn leaves, or while unwinding with a timeless classic novel (Jane Eyre, anyone?). The beauty of this cider is that its flavors only deepen and meld more harmoniously over time. The inviting aroma alone will transform your home into a cozy mountain retreat. And while I certainly appreciate a spirited cider cocktail, this non-alcoholic spiced apple cider recipe stands out for its versatility and its ability to be enjoyed by everyone in the family.

In fact, this simple cider is just the beginning of your autumn and winter drink adventures! 🍎 In the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing how you can elevate this base recipe into a sophisticated winter spiced apple cider sangria, or a wonderfully toasty spiced apple eggnog that will add an extra sparkle to your December celebrations. But before we get there, we start here, with the foundational cider that inspires it all. So, grab your most cherished mug (mine, naturally, has tiny pumpkins on it!), and let’s create some autumn magic together. ✨

🎥 Video: See How to Make It!

🥘 Essential Ingredients for Your Cozy Spiced Apple Cider

Crafting the perfect glass of homemade spiced apple cider requires just a few quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building that rich, comforting flavor profile we all adore:

• Apple Juice: For the most authentic and robust flavor, always opt for 100% unsweetened apple juice. If you happen to only have sweetened juice on hand, remember to reduce or completely omit the maple syrup or honey to maintain the sugar-free aspect of this recipe. The quality of your apple juice will significantly impact the final taste of your hot spiced apple cider.
• Apple Slices: A single small, thinly sliced apple isn’t just for garnish! It subtly enhances the natural apple sweetness and adds a beautiful, rustic visual appeal to your simmering cider.
• Cinnamon Sticks and Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon is undeniably the heart and soul of any great spiced apple cider. We use both whole cinnamon sticks for deep, slow-release flavor infusion and a dash of ground cinnamon for an immediate, bold kick that rounds out the spice profile beautifully.
• Whole Cloves & Star Anise: Whole cloves contribute a warm, slightly peppery, and deeply aromatic note, instantly evoking cozy fall feelings. While optional, star anise adds an intriguing hint of licorice depth that elevates your cider, making it feel like it’s straight from a charming European Christmas market.
• Orange Peel: A single strip of orange peel (making sure to avoid any bitter white pith!) provides a bright, citrusy counterpoint to the rich spices. This zestful addition wonderfully balances the overall flavor, making each sip vibrant and refreshing.
• Maple Syrup or Honey: A touch of natural sweetness is crucial for rounding out all the flavors. Start with one tablespoon and adjust according to your personal preference and the sweetness of your apple juice. Maple syrup imparts a deep, earthy warmth, while honey offers a lighter, more floral undertone. Both are excellent choices for this sugar-free apple cider.

For exact quantities and detailed nutritional information, please refer to the complete recipe card below.

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Perfect Spiced Apple Cider

Making this delightful easy spiced apple cider is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Follow these simple steps to brew your own batch of autumn comfort:

Step 1 – Gather Your Potion Ingredients: Begin by preparing your fresh ingredients. Thinly slice your small apple, carefully peel a strip of orange (remembering to avoid the bitter white pith), and gather all your whole spices. Place all the ingredients – the apple juice, apple slices, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, orange peel, your chosen sweetener (maple syrup or honey), and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon – into your favorite medium-sized saucepan. This simple assembly makes the cooking process effortless.

Step 2 – Simmer the Magic: Place your saucepan over medium heat. Gently bring the apple cider mixture to a soft simmer. Watch for those tiny, gentle bubbles to just begin forming around the edges of the pot. It’s crucial not to let it come to a rolling boil, as this can cause the delicate spice flavors to become harsh or dissipate. Once it reaches a gentle simmer, immediately reduce the heat to low.

Step 3 – Infuse & Enchant: Allow the cider to continue simmering gently on low heat for 20-30 minutes. This is the magical infusion stage, where the heat coaxes all the wonderful aromas and flavors from the spices and apple slices into the juice. This is the perfect time to let the warm, inviting scent fill your home, perhaps curling up with that good book you’ve been meaning to read while the spices do their enchanting work.

Step 4 – Strain & Serve: Once the infusion time is complete, carefully remove the saucepan from the heat. Use a fine mesh strainer to thoroughly separate and remove all the whole spices and fruit slices from the liquid. This ensures a smooth, clean sip. Pour the hot cider directly into your mugs and serve immediately to enjoy its warmth and aromatic goodness. Alternatively, let it cool completely before storing it for later enjoyment – the flavors will continue to deepen as it rests. Your delicious hot spiced apple cider is now ready!

🎉 Hosting a Fall Gathering? Scale Up Your Spiced Apple Cider!

This spiced apple cider recipe is fantastic for entertaining. Easily scale it up to serve a larger crowd with these simple adjustments:

To serve approximately 12 people, you’ll need:

• 12 cups (3 liters) of high-quality unsweetened apple juice
• 3 small apples, thinly sliced for flavor and visual appeal
• 6-8 cinnamon sticks for a deep, comforting spice
• 12 whole cloves to add that signature warmth
• 4-6 star anise pods (optional, but highly recommended for an exotic touch)
• 3 strips of orange peel (again, carefully avoid the white pith)
• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of maple syrup or honey (adjust to your guests’ taste preferences)
• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon (optional, but enhances the overall cinnamon profile)

How to Make a Large Batch:

1. Combine everything in a very large pot or a slow cooker. The slow cooker is ideal for keeping it warm during your event.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat on the stovetop, or set your slow cooker to its low setting.
3. Let it simmer for 30-45 minutes (or 2-3 hours on low in a slow cooker) to allow the spices to fully infuse and develop deep, complex flavors.
4. Strain the cider before serving to remove all the whole spices and fruit. Keep it warm in the slow cooker on a “keep warm” setting or over very low heat on the stove.

Optional Enhancements for Serving:

• For an elegant presentation, garnish individual mugs with fresh cinnamon sticks, extra apple slices, or even a few cranberries.
• Offer adult guests the option to “spike” their individual servings with a splash of bourbon, rum, or brandy. This flexibility allows everyone to enjoy the cider exactly how they like it!

🍪 Perfect Serving Suggestions for Your Non-Alcoholic Spiced Apple Cider

This versatile non-alcoholic spiced apple cider is a delightful companion to a myriad of fall occasions and dishes. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it:

• Pair your warm cider with leaf-shaped sandwich cookies for a truly autumnal afternoon treat that’s both comforting and charming.
• Serve it as the star beverage at brunch alongside a rustic apple crisp without oatmeal or a decadent custard apple tart for a sweet, seasonal touch.
• Make it the signature cozy drink for your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving celebration, especially when served with a creamy no-bake pumpkin cheesecake.
• Don’t limit yourself to hot cider! Chill it thoroughly and pour it over ice with a cinnamon stick for a wonderfully refreshing cold cider, perfect for milder fall days.

🍂 Flavor Variations to Explore

While delicious as is, this homemade spiced apple cider can be easily adapted to suit your taste or occasion:

• Cranberry-Apple Cider: Add a handful of fresh or frozen cranberries during the simmering stage for a beautiful ruby hue and a tart, festive kick.
• Ginger Twist: Include a few thin slices of fresh ginger root for a zesty, warming undertone.
• Vanilla Bean Infusion: For a luxurious touch, split a vanilla bean and add it to the pot while simmering. The subtle vanilla notes complement the apple and spices perfectly.
• Pear & Apple Cider: Substitute one of the apples with a ripe pear, thinly sliced, to add a different dimension of sweetness and fruitiness.
• Citrus Burst: Experiment with lemon or lime slices in addition to or instead of orange peel for varying citrus brightness.

🌡️ Storage Solutions for Your Spiced Apple Cider

One of the many advantages of making this easy spiced apple cider is its excellent storage capability. You can enjoy the delicious flavors for days to come:

Once your spiced apple cider has finished simmering, allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer the cooled cider to an airtight container, such as a glass jar or bottle, and store it in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh and flavorful for up to 5 days. When you’re ready for another cozy mug, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, or use your microwave for a quick single serving.

For longer storage, this cider is also freezer-friendly! Pour the cooled cider into a freezer-safe container or even ice cube trays, leaving some headspace for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you crave a taste of fall, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as desired. This makes meal prep and spontaneous cozy moments incredibly convenient.

🍽 Essential Equipment for Making Spiced Apple Cider

You won’t need any specialized kitchen gadgets to make this comforting beverage. Here’s a list of the basic equipment that will make the process smooth and enjoyable:

• Medium Saucepan: A sturdy saucepan is essential for simmering your cider. Choose one with a heavy bottom for even heat distribution.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for gentle stirring to combine ingredients and ensure the flavors meld nicely.
• Fine Mesh Strainer: Crucial for removing all the whole spices and fruit bits for a smooth, pleasant drinking experience.
• Sharp Knife: For safely and efficiently slicing the apple.
• Vegetable Peeler: Ideal for getting a thin strip of orange peel without including the bitter white pith.
• Airtight Glass Bottle or Mason Jar: Handy for storing any delicious leftovers in the refrigerator.

If you make this delightful recipe, please let me know how you liked it by giving it a ★★★★★ star rating and leaving a comment below. Your feedback is truly awesome and appreciated! You can also sign up for our Newsletter to receive weekly delicious homemade recipes directly in your inbox. And don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest or Instagram and share your amazing creation with me. Just tag me @combinegoodflavors and use the hashtag #combinegoodflavors, so I don’t miss it!

📖 Recipe

Homemade Spiced Apple Cider (Non-Alcoholic)

Nora

Perfect for cocktails, mocktails, or sipping on its own! This cozy spiced apple cider recipe is fall in a cup! Made without alcohol or added sugar, and ready in 30 minutes.

5 from 3 votes

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Drinks

Cuisine American, European

Servings 4 cups

Calories 159 kcal

Equipment

• Medium Saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Fine mesh strainer
• Sharp knife
• Peeler for the orange
• Airtight glass bottle or mason jar for storing leftovers

Ingredients

 

 

• 4 cups Unsweetened apple juice
• 1 Apple small, thinly sliced
• 2-3 Cinnamon sticks
• 4 Cloves whole
• 2 Star anise
• 1 strip Orange peel avoid the white pith
• 1 tablespoon Maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon Ground cinnamon optional but highly recommended!

Instructions

 

• Add 4 cups Unsweetened apple juice, 1 Apple ,2-3 Cinnamon sticks, 4 Cloves,2 Star anise, 1 strip Orange peel, 1 tablespoon Maple syrup ½ teaspoon Ground cinnamon to a saucepan. Stir gently and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  4 cups Unsweetened apple juice, 1 Apple, 2-3 Cinnamon sticks, 4 Cloves, 2 Star anise, 1 strip Orange peel, 1 tablespoon Maple syrup, ½ teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes. Don’t let it boil, just a gentle bubble is enough.
• Strain the cider to remove whole spices and fruit slices. Use immediately in your Eierpunsch or store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

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Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 159kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 12mg | Potassium: 329mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 32g | Vitamin A: 37IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 53mg | Iron: 1mg

⛑️ Important Food Safety Considerations

Ensuring food safety is paramount when preparing any recipe, including this wonderful spiced apple cider. Please keep these guidelines in mind to protect yourself and your loved ones:

• Temperature Control: If you are adding any ingredients that require cooking (which isn’t the case for this cider, but a good general rule), always cook to a minimum internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C) to eliminate harmful bacteria.
• Cross-Contamination: Always use separate utensils, cutting boards, and dishes for raw meat and cooked food. Although this is a vegetarian recipe, good kitchen hygiene practices are essential.
• Hand Washing: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before, during, and after food preparation. This is a fundamental step in preventing the spread of germs.
• Refrigeration Rules: Never leave perishable food, including prepared beverages like cider, sitting out at room temperature for extended periods. Bacteria can multiply rapidly between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C).
• Never Leave Cooking Unattended: Always keep an eye on your saucepan when simmering, even if it’s on low heat. Unattended cooking is a leading cause of kitchen fires.
• Safe Oil Use: If you were to use oil in another recipe, always choose oils with a high smoke point to avoid creating harmful compounds when cooking at high temperatures.
• Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation in your kitchen, especially when using a gas stove, to prevent the buildup of fumes.

For more comprehensive and official guidance on safe food handling, please refer to trusted resources such as the Safe Food Handling – FDA website.