A hot maple bourbon apple cider is the perfect spiced comforting drink for a Yuletide celebration!
A Yuletide Feast
As the shortest day and longest night of the year approaches, we gather with friends and loved ones to celebrate Yule and welcome the winter season. Celebrated across many cultures, the Winter Solstice holds a dear place in the hearts of many. With warm candle light, garlands of evergreen, and a flaming Yule log, celebrate this Yuletide season with a lavish winter feast. Join us in raising a glass of cheer as welcome the coming of the light!
A Warm and Comforting Drink
A warm and cozy spiked beverage is the perfect tipple to enjoy around a roaring fire on Yuletide. Fruity apple cider is gently steeped with fragrant spices and fresh citrus and then sweetened with a touch of maple syrup. Add a kick to this comforting beverage with a splash of bourbon. As our Yuletide feast comes to an end, share a glass of this maple bourbon apple cider to chase away to chills of winter.
Ingredient Notes
Apple cider: This recipe uses fresh apple cider, which is essentially an unfiltered apple juice. Regular apple juice can be used instead.
Maple syrup: I use maple syrup to sweeten this hot apple cider, however, you could substitute with brown sugar or honey if you prefer.
Bourbon: The bourbon in this recipe is entirely optional. Use your favourite bourbon or whiskey to add an alcoholic kick to this comforting winter drink.
Spices: This cider is flavoured with whole spices, however, you could use ground cinnamon and cloves instead if you prefer.
How to Make Maple Bourbon Apple Cider
In a saucepan, warm the apple cider over medium high heat. Add the orange and lemon slices, cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. Bring the cider up to a simmer and then turn down the heat. Let the cider gently steep on low for about half an hour until it is infused with the flavour of the spices. After steeping, add maple syrup to taste and remove the citrus and spices.
To serve, add 1 oz bourbon to a mug and top with the hot apple cider. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and star anise if desired. Enjoy!
