Do you know what I really love? Sitting around the living room with Chris, working on projects. It’s something we can justify doing a lot of this time of year. First we set up the tree and everything, then buy and wrap presents, and finish off a few things around the house while we’re at it. A surefire way to get him to sit down with me is to make a fresh batch of apple cider. Chris loves apple cider. Who doesn’t, though? It makes the perfect holiday party drink too. Just add a little whiskey if you’re feeling frisky 😉 After much (ok, a little) searching and testing, I found the perfect healthy apple cider recipe that has no sugar added and is loaded with superfood benefits from seasonal spices.
This apple cider recipe makes about 4 cups of cider, so you may want to double it if you are really looking to dig into some cider. I like to make one batch and enjoy it, then start another an hour or so later. Also, the fresher the apple juice the better the cider! If you can, juice your own apples. I buy organic Gala apples. They’re a little sweeter than others. For a more tart cider, go with Pink Lady or Granny Smith apples.
Healthy Apple Cider Recipe
4 Cups Fresh Apple Juice
5 Whole Cloves
4 Cinnamon Sticks
4 Cardamom Pods
2 Chinese Star Anise
1-Inch Piece of Fresh Ginger
1 Teaspoon Fresh Lemon Zest
1/2 Orange Thinly Sliced
Healthy Apple Cider Recipe Instructions
Combine fresh apple juice, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, anise, ginger, and lemon zest in a medium sized saucepan. Cover the pan and heat on medium-low for 15 minutes. Add the orange slices, and heat for 5 more minutes. Serve immediately!
I found this recipe at Healthful Pursuit, and it’s by far my favorite because of the way the recipe details the added superfood benefits of all of the spices in this cider. In general, these spices will aid in digestion, detoxification, and boost your immune system. For more info on what each spice does, visit the original recipe at Healthful Pursuit below. I usually share some alternative recipe variations after my recipe, but I think this is really the perfect apple cider. If you want to keep it simple, this recipe is also super delicious with just the apples, orange slices, and cinnamon. I highly recommend following the whole recipe though! It’s so good.
What’s a little apple cider without a snack to go along with it? Try one of the recipes below that make a perfect pairing to fresh apple cider at home.
Hot Apple Cider with Superfood Power by Healthful Pursuit
Paleo Gingerbread Loaf with Coconut Glaze by The Roasted Root
Paleo Gingerbread Muffins by Sensual Appeal Blog
Paleo Gingerbread Cake & Maple Frosting by Plated with Style