Warm up your autumn evenings with a delightful cup of Sugar Free Apple Cider that’s not only delicious but also guilt-free! Imagine the cozy aroma of cinnamon and cloves wafting through your home as you simmer this delightful blend of apple juice and citrus. Perfect for chilly nights or festive gatherings, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a classic fall beverage without the added sugars. Ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet flavorful drink? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple juice
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Sweetener of choice to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 cups of apple juice, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 teaspoon of whole cloves, 1 sliced orange, 1 sliced lemon, and your sweetener of choice.
- In a medium-sized pot, pour in the 4 cups of apple juice. This will serve as the base for your apple cider.
- Next, add the 2 cinnamon sticks to the pot. The cinnamon will infuse the cider with a warm, spicy flavor.
- Then, add the 1 teaspoon of whole cloves. These will contribute a rich and aromatic essence to the cider.
- Take the sliced orange and lemon, and gently add them to the pot. The citrus will brighten the flavor profile of the cider.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to combine the flavors.
- Once the cider reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
- After 30 minutes, taste the cider. If you prefer it sweeter, add your sweetener of choice gradually, stirring well after each addition until you reach your desired sweetness.
- Once you are satisfied with the flavor, remove the pot from heat. You can strain the cider through a fine mesh strainer if you wish to remove the cloves, cinnamon sticks, and citrus slices, or serve it as is for a rustic presentation.
- Serve the sugar-free apple cider warm in mugs, garnished with additional slices of orange or lemon, if desired. Enjoy your homemade beverage!
Tips
- Choose Quality Apple Juice: For the best flavor, opt for 100% pure apple juice with no added sugars or preservatives. Freshly pressed juice will elevate your cider even more!
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist. A pinch of vanilla extract can also enhance the flavor profile.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Since this is a sugar-free recipe, use your favorite sweetener sparingly. Start with a little and gradually increase until you find the perfect balance for your palate.
- Serve with a Twist: For a fun presentation, garnish your cider with a cinnamon stick or a slice of star anise. It not only looks beautiful but adds an extra hint of flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This cider can be made in advance and reheated when needed. Just store it in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop when you're ready to serve.
- Try It Cold: If you’re looking for a refreshing twist, let the cider cool and serve it over ice for a unique summer drink!
- Pair with Snacks: This cider pairs wonderfully with snacks like cheese platters, popcorn, or even spiced nuts for a cozy gathering. Enjoy crafting your delicious Sugar Free Apple Cider and make every sip a moment to cherish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
