Description
A cozy, warm, and easy-to-make fall drink blending chai spices, vanilla, and apple cider, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups (950 ml) fresh, unsweetened apple cider
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 large or 2 small cinnamon sticks
- 5–6 whole cloves
- 1 star anise pod (optional)
- 3–4 lightly crushed cardamom pods
- 2 black tea bags (Assam or English Breakfast)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Pour 4 cups of apple cider into a medium saucepan. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise (if using), and crushed cardamom pods. Stir to combine.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover with a lid and let simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the spices.
- Turn the heat to low and add the 2 black tea bags directly into the cider. Steep for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove and discard the tea bags. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup if desired. Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Strain the cider through a fine mesh strainer into mugs to remove spices. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
Do not rush the simmering step to allow spices to fully infuse. Adjust spice levels by adding more cinnamon or reducing cloves. Use fresh spices for best flavor. Sweeten at the end to control sweetness. For caffeine-free version, omit black tea and simmer spices longer. Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days; reheat gently without boiling.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 8 ounce
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 22
- Sodium: 10
- Carbohydrates: 24
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 0.2
Keywords: fall drink, apple cider, chai, vanilla, warm beverage, easy recipe, cozy drink, autumn, spiced cider