Chai Spice Apple Cider

Give your apple cider a unique twist with a some chai spice. It’s simple and warmly spiced–a perfect fall drink.

As a self-proclaimed pumpkin disliker (with the exception of these donuts and scones), I’m always on the lookout for something warm to drink that isn’t a pumpkin spice latte. That means that drinks like this chai apple cider are favorites when the temperature drops. I’m always down for a warm mug of cider and a good book.

Chai spice is one of my favorite cool weather flavors. It’s so versatile and can be used as a tea, in baked goods, or any number of ways. For example, things like Chai Snickerdoodles pair beautifully with a warm mug of this cider.

Oh, and this gorgeous apron? it’s another one of my favorite things. It’s from Virginia Dare Dress Co., and it’s beautiful and perfect in every way.

The chai flavor comes from this blend you can easily make–it’s only six ingredients! You can purchase a spice blend if you prefer also.

There’s also a tiny bit of sweetener to amplify the apple flavor, and a s few slices of orange to brighten it up. You can never go wrong with a bit of added citrus, right?

I’ll stop now and leave it at this– There’s lots to love about this recipe that sets it apart from your usual apple cider.

Chai Cider Ingredients

• 1 quart (32 oz.) apple cider
• 1 Tablespoon chai spice mix
• 2-3 Tablespoons honey
• 3-4 orange slices
• 1 apple, cored and sliced
• Cinnamon sticks, to garnish

How to Make Chai Spice Apple Cider

Pour the apple cider in a pot. Stir in the chai spice, honey. Add the orange and apple slices to the top.

Heat it over low heat for 2 hours. You don’t want it to boil, but just lightly steam.

After 1 hour, taste the chai apple cider to see if you like the flavors. Adjust them to your liking. You may wish to add more spice or honey. The flavors will continue to develop as it heats, and if they are too strong for your liking you can add water.

Making Apple Cider in the Crockpot

You can also warm the apple cider in a crockpot. It’s actually simpler, because you don’t have to keep track of the temperature to make sure it’s not overheating.

To make the Chai Apple Cider in the crockpot, prepare it the same way you would in a pot, but in the insert to your crockpot. Warm it on low heat for 4-6 hours, then adjust the flavors to your liking and serve.

Serving Your Cider Cold

Apple cider is also delicious served cold! It’s more of a punch when you drink it chilled, but still so delicious.

After simmering the apple cider according to the recipe, pour it into a pitcher or bowl. Refrigerate the cider for several hours, or until it’s chilled.

Be sure to stir up the cider before stirring, as the spices can settle to the bottom.

Sweetening the Chai Cider

While honey compliments the spices nicely, you can also sweeten it with brown sugar or maple syrup.

Start with a couple of tablespoons of sweetener, and add more according to your taste. Note that the flavors will become stronger as the cider steeps, so sweeten and season the cider on the light side at first.

The Chai Spice Mix in the Cider Recipe

This cider is made with a chai spice mix, not a bag of tea. You can make your own, and I’ve got a recipe for it that you can find by clicking here. If you prefer not to make it, you can purchase chai spice mix online or at some super markets.

Tips for Serving the Apple Cider

This recipe makes a quart, which is four 8 oz. servings of cider. However, it’s easy to multiply and make ahead for a crowd. It’s perfect for a quiet evening in, or making a lot for fall parties.

Chai apple cider is delicious no matter how you serve it. However, here are a few ideas for ways to top and garnish it to make it even more special.

• Whip up a quick batch of cold foam to top each mug of cider. Add a little sprinkle of chai spice.
• Slice up some fresh oranges and/or apples.
• Add a cinnamon stick to each mug to use as a stir stick.
• If serving cold, add fresh slices of apple and orange to the top of the bowl or pitcher of cider. This makes it so pretty and colorful!

Because the spices can settle, it’s a good idea to give the cider a good stir occasionally. This keeps the flavors even distributed.

Other Chai Recipes You May Enjoy:

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