Hot cranberry cider is a vibrant, warming drink that’s perfect for the colder months, bringing together the tartness of cranberries and the sweet, spiced flavor of apple cider. This festive beverage is perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings by the fire, or any occasion when you want a comforting, seasonal drink.
To make hot cranberry cider, start by combining fresh or frozen cranberries with apple cider in a large pot. The cranberries are simmered to release their natural tartness, infusing the cider with a bright, tangy flavor. As the cranberries cook down, the cider becomes deeply flavorful and slightly tangy, while retaining the sweet apple undertones that make it such a beloved drink.
A blend of warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel is added to give the cider a fragrant, aromatic complexity. Some recipes also include a little sugar or honey to sweeten the cider, balancing out the tartness of the cranberries. For an extra touch of holiday cheer, a splash of orange juice or a few slices of fresh ginger can be added to deepen the flavor profile.
Once the cider has simmered for about 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together, strain it to remove the cranberry skins and spices (if desired). The result is a smooth, spiced, tangy-sweet beverage that’s perfect for sipping on a chilly day.
Hot cranberry cider can be served in a mug, garnished with a cinnamon stick, a few fresh cranberries, or an orange slice for an extra festive touch. It pairs wonderfully with cookies, pastries, or any of your favorite holiday treats.
For a grown-up twist, you can add a splash of rum, bourbon, or brandy, transforming this cozy drink into a warming cocktail.
Whether you’re gathering around the fireplace or entertaining guests, hot cranberry cider is sure to add a festive, flavorful touch to your holiday season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cranberry juice unsweetened
- 2 cups apple cider
- 4 sticks cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 orange sliced
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the cranberry juice, apple cider, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves.
- Add the orange slices to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and strain the cider to remove the solid ingredients.
- Serve the hot cranberry cider warm, garnished with additional orange slices or a cinnamon stick, if desired.
Nutrition
I don’t like cranberries, but I tried making this for my family. It’s too tart for my taste, but they said it was great.
This cider is seriously delicious!! I added a bit of sugar and it was perfect for my holiday party. Everyone loved it!
Easy to make and perfect for cold weather! I served it at my holiday party, and everyone loved it!
I made this for my family too and wow! It was a hit! So easy and delicious.
Sounds nice, but I don’t know if everyone will like cranberry juice. Can you replace it with something else?
I followed the instructions but mine didn’t taste right. Maybe I used too much clove. 🤔
I was skeptical at first, but this turned out delicious! Will make again.
I didn’t have cinnamon sticks so I used powder, is that okay? Can’t wait to try it.
Yum! Smells soooo good while it cooks. Definitely a keeper!
Too much cloves for my taste. I felt like I was drinking potpourri.
Wow! So good! I added some ginger and it took it to another level! 🌟
Ginger? That sounds interesting! I might try that next time. 🥰
Made this for a party and it was gone in minutes! Everybody said it was good.
How do I strain the cider? Do I need a special tool?
Not bad, but it could use more sweetness. I will add sugar next time.
I think cranberry and apple together is a weird combo. But I tried it and it was okay, I guess.
Is this really hot? I thought cider was usually cold. I’m confused.
Just okay. Not really for me. I prefer apple cider alone.
This is basically apple juice with red stuff! No thanks. 🙄
This cider recipe is amazing! Perfect for winter gatherings! 🎉
I made this for my family last week and it was a hit! Everyone loved it. 🤗
This cider is absolutely amazing! Perfect for the holidays!
I made this for my family and they loved it! Even the kids!
This was soooo good! I added some extra spices like nutmeg, and it was delish! Will make again!
I made it with spiked cider and OMG!!! Best decision ever! 🥴🍊
Can I use dried oranges instead of fresh? Anyone tried this? 😊
I think you should add sugar or honey because it’s kinda tart.
Nah, I like it tart. Adding sugar will just ruin it. Keep it natural, please!
I agree! A little sweetener would balance the tartness perfectly. Great suggestion!
Not bad! But I think it needs more spice or something.
I don’t understand why everyone loves this. It was pretty tart and not sweet at all.
This recipe made me feel warm and fuzzy inside. Great for winter evenings!
Hmm, isn’t this basically just apple cider with a bit of cran? A bit underwhelming tbh.
I actually think the mix of cran and apple gives it a unique twist! Worth a try.
Absolutely love this recipe! Perfect for winter gatherings. The spices are just right!
I’ve never cooked before (like NEVER) but this was easy. My kids loved it!
Hot cider is best with a splash of rum, just sayin’! 😏
I mean, it’s just cranberry juice and apple cider, right? Can’t be that special. 🤔
so easy 2 make! kids loved it to! 🙂
What if I don’t have whole cloves? Can I use ground ones???
Is there an alternate to the orange? I’m deathly allergic. Pls help!
You can use lemon slices instead of orange. It’s still citrusy and should work well!
Lemon? Is that even any good? I don’t think that’s a good sub for orange lol.
I don’t get why people make cider in pots, it takes too long. Just buy it ready-made! 🙄
Hot cranberry cider is best! Tastes like Christmas in a cup!
Absolutely! It really does feel like the holidays in a cup! I love this recipe!
This recipe is amazing! The cranberry juice and apple cider combo is perfect for the holidays! 🎉
Easy peasy to make. But I forgot the orange slices, oops! Still good flavor.
Love this recipe! Added some star anise for extra flavor. So cozy!
Too sweet for my taste. Next time, I will cut down on the juice.
I actually love the sweetness! Maybe try adding some water instead?
Yum! My family drank it all in one sitting. It’s a hit. I might use a different juice next time.
Is this even a real drink? Sounds kinda weird to me. What’s wrong with regular cider?
Sounds good but too many ingredients! I just want a simple drink to enjoy.
I dunno… Cloves? That sounds too strong for me. Like, who even uses those?!
Cloves are actually really common in spiced drinks! They add a nice warmth, you might like it if you give it a chance.
I dunno, sounds yucky. I wouldn’t put cloves in nuffin. Just stick to cinnamon.
Yall, I made this for my friends and they all went wild for it! Definitely recommend. 🍂🍊
This cider recipe is amazing! Perfect for the holidays. My whole family loved it. 😊
Yum! My house smells like Christmas now.! Will be making this every year.
I tried it but it turned out wayyy too tart for my taste. Maybe I’ll add some sugar next time.
Cranberries in cider? Who thought of this? I don’t like it. 1 star!
I love cranberry in cider! It adds a unique tartness. You should try it again, maybe with a bit of extra sugar?
This is a fake recipe! Everyone knows apple cider is sweet. How can you mix it with cranberry juice? Weird.
Actually, mixing sweet and tart can create a unique flavor! I think it sounds delicious.
You might be surprised! It’s not weird if you give it a try. Trying new combinations can be fun. 🍏🍹