Hot Spiced Apple Chai Cider

Many winter's ago, I discovered hot spiced cider and, after perfecting my version, spent many winter nights snug with a warm mug. With a gallon of inexpensive White House cider in the fridge, I decided it was time to revive it. This time, however, I made a few tweaks. I added a couple Chai-spiced tea bags, some star anise (oddly abundant in my pantry) and some fresh orange juice. The cider turned out much better than I expected, and, in fact, was so good that I've decided to give it as Christmas gifts, packaged in interesting bottles. I get local milk at the farmer's market in the summer and have an abundance of milk bottles. The one here can be purchased from the Loveless Cafe. With some, I'll include a small bottle of local Tennessee bourbon, and others, a mug for sipping on cold nights. Adjust to your own tastes. Just about anything will work.
December 07, 2015

Ingredients

  • 3 quarts apple cider (doesn't have to be particularly special)
  • 2 to 3 Chai Spice black tea bags (I used Stash brand)
  • 1 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
  • 2 cinnamon sticks, cracked
  • 4 star anise

Preparation

1. Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan. Simmer 30 minutes to 3 hours. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful. Serve hot in mugs.

 

Makes 12 (1-cup) servings.

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Ingredients

  • 3 quarts apple cider (doesn't have to be particularly special)
  • 2 to 3 Chai Spice black tea bags (I used Stash brand)
  • 1 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
  • 2 cinnamon sticks, cracked
  • 4 star anise
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