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Caramel Apple Cider Recipe

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4.4 from 12 reviews

Warm up with this cozy Caramel Apple Cider, a deliciously spiced drink combining apple juice with homemade cinnamon syrup, caramel sauce, and optional spiked alcohol. Perfect for chilly days and festive gatherings, topped with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra indulgence.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Cinnamon Syrup

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Caramel Apple Cider

  • 3 cups apple juice
  • 3 tablespoons cinnamon syrup
  • 1 tablespoon caramel sauce
  • 3 ounces alcohol such as bourbon, Fireball, caramel or vanilla flavored vodka (optional)
  • Whipped cream, for topping
  • Caramel sauce, for garnish
  • Ground cinnamon, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Make the Cinnamon Syrup: Combine the water, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a small or medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few more minutes until the syrup slightly thickens.
  2. Prepare the Apple Cider: In a microwave-safe bowl or medium saucepan, combine the apple juice, 3 tablespoons of the cinnamon syrup you just made, and 1 tablespoon of caramel sauce. Whisk together thoroughly. Heat the mixture by microwaving for 3 minutes or warming it gently on the stovetop until hot but not boiling. If desired, stir in 3 ounces of your preferred alcohol (bourbon, Fireball, or flavored vodka) at this point.
  3. Serve: Pour the warm caramel apple cider evenly into 2 medium-sized mugs. Top each serving generously with whipped cream, then drizzle with additional caramel sauce. Finish by sprinkling ground cinnamon on top for a festive touch.

Notes

  • The cinnamon syrup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the alcohol or substitute with non-alcoholic mixers.
  • Adjust the thickness of the cinnamon syrup by simmering longer if you prefer a more concentrated flavor.
  • Feel free to substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a different sweet note.
  • Use freshly ground cinnamon for the best aroma and flavor in both the syrup and as a garnish.