Warm Vanilla Spice Cider

Heat up a batch of spiced apple cider to serve this holiday season. Whether you spike it with bourbon, add a dollop of whipped cream, or enjoy it as-is, this is a drink that will warm you from the inside out.

Warm Vanilla Spice Cider

A warm and comforting spiced apple cider that can be enjoyed on its own or elevated with bourbon and whipped cream. Perfect for the holiday season.

4.61 from 57 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Total Time 20 mins

Ingredients

  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 3/4 cinnamon stick
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/16 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/16 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 vanilla bean
  • 1 ounce bourbon
  • Whipped cream
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon or apple pie spice

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine apple cider, cinnamon stick, cardamom, nutmeg, and scraped vanilla bean (including the pod).
  2. Bring the cider to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for about 15 minutes.
  3. Strain the cider through a fine mesh sieve to remove the cinnamon stick and vanilla bean solids.
  4. Pour the cider into a heat-proof mug and stir in 1 ounce of bourbon, if desired.
  5. Top with whipped cream and a pinch of cinnamon or apple pie spice.
  6. Serve warm.