Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups unsweetened apple cider (fresh and cloudy is best)
- 2 whole cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- 2 star anise pods
- 1 medium orange, sliced into thin rounds
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh cranberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Pour the apple cider into a large stainless steel or non-reactive pot.
- Add the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise pods to the pot.
- Place the orange slices into the liquid.
- Turn the heat to medium-low and bring the mixture to a very gentle simmer.
- Once it starts simmering, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid.
- Let the cider steep for 15 to 20 minutes. Do not let it boil vigorously.
- Stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract during the last 2 minutes of simmering.
- Turn off the heat. Use a slotted spoon or a fine-mesh strainer to remove the spices and orange slices.
- Ladle the hot mocktail into mugs.
- Garnish with a fresh cinnamon stick or a few cranberries if desired, and serve immediately.
- Cook Time: 25 minutes