Caramel Apple Cider

This caramel apple cider will have you adding it as a favorite beverage after your first taste.

Nothing says Fall like apple cider does. Adding the sweet flavor of caramel elevates the cider to the level of a dessert rather than just a beverage.

I grew up out in the country and there were plenty of apple orchards in the area. Apple cider was pretty much a staple in the fridge from the time the apple crops were ready until long after the first freeze.

I always loved plain apple cider, but when I had my first taste of caramel apple cider, I discovered a whole new love for one of my favorite beverages!

What is the difference between apple juice and apple cider?

Growing up, I was always told that apple juice is made out of just the flesh of the apple while apple cider is made from the whole apple including the stem, core and seeds. Later on, I was told that cider does not undergo the pasteurization process and that is the main distinction. Because I was confused, I looked into the differences a bit more and kept finding different definitions of each.

It turns out the reason there are so many different variations on what exactly makes apple juice or apple cider is because there isn’t any “legal” standard. In some places, they define it based on the level of filtration and other places define it based on when the apples were picked. Some commercial brands even admit that they put the exact same product in both their juice and cider bottles!

No matter where you get it or how it is defined, apple cider is even better with a kiss of caramel!

Here is my favorite caramel apple cider recipe:

What you’ll need:

1 gallon of your favorite apple cider

1 Orange

4 Cinnamon sticks

2 Tbsp cloves

2 Tsp allspice

1/2 cup caramel syrup

Whipped cream and caramel syrup for garnishing

Directions

Pour the apple cider into a large pot or crockpot if making it for a party or gathering.

Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves and allspice to the cider.

Place them over the stovetop over medium high heat until you see steam start to rise. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.

Add the caramel syrup and heat back up if cooling has occurred.

With the help of a cheesecloth strain the apple cider into a large pitcher.

Pour into small bottles top with whipped cream and drizzle with caramel syrup.

Serve and enjoy.

Tips

You can keep the caramel cider in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.