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?
Can I use sweetened cranberry juice? Asking for a friend. 😅
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.
Don’t have orange? Will it still work? I’m outta stuff and not going to store… Lol.
I didn’t have cinnamon sticks so I used powder, is that okay? Can’t wait to try it.
Eh, wasn’t great. Just tasted like watered-down juice to me. 2 stars.
I tried it with regular apple cider (not “cider” cider?) and it still tasted great, so I don’t think you need to be super picky about the brand. The smell is unreal.
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.
This recipe is absolutely delicious! Perfect for the holiday season.
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.
This is basically warm cranberry apple juice with spices… which is fine, I guess. Could use more orange zest.
Is this really hot? I thought cider was usually cold. I’m confused.
Just okay. Not really for me. I prefer apple cider alone.
Cinnamon sticks and whole cloves? Yes. Straining it is key—otherwise you get little clove bits and it’s not a vibe.
Totally agree—straining makes it drinkable. I once skipped it and got these weird clove bites… not the cozy vibe.
I used regular (sweetened) cranberry juice and it came out super sweet, so I’d warn people to watch that. Otherwise easy recipe.
Yumm! I added honey and it tastes soooo good. 5 stars! 🌟
5 stars just for the vibe. Hot cranberry anything = instant happiness. Quick question though—do you leave the orange in while simmering or only for garnish? I left mine in and it was still good.
This is basically apple juice with red stuff! No thanks. 🙄
I tried making this but I think I added too much cinnamon. It was overpowering. Maybe I need to adjust the spices next time.
Way too much cinnamon and cloves for my taste. Still, I can see how it would be great if you like spicy drinks.
Totally get it—4 sticks cinnamon + 1 tbsp cloves is definitely intense. I’d cut the cloves way down (like half or even less) if you’re sensitive to that flavor.
I strain it but keep the orange slices separate to garnish. Looks fancy and tastes way better than plain cider. 10/10 for presentation.
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. 🤗
So good!
This cider is absolutely amazing! Perfect for the holidays!
I made this for my family and they loved it! Even the kids!
It’s good, but I wish the instructions said whether to remove the spices after simmering—straining helps, but I’m still not sure.
I just leave the cinnamon sticks in for extra flavor and don’t bother, lol. The cloves are kinda strong though—if you don’t strain, it can taste like straight potpourri. Next time I’ll try straining exactly like the recipe says.
Yeah, I get you. Since the instructions say to strain after simmering, you’d effectively remove the spices (and the orange solids) that way. Still, it’d be clearer to say “strain out cinnamon/cloves” in step 4.
Could be great, but you know the ratio seems off—2 cups each? Seems like it would be too tart. Maybe add sugar? I didn’t.
Pretty good, but mine came out a bit too strong/medicinal tasting from the cloves. Next time I’ll cut the cloves in half or simmer shorter. Still warm and festive though!
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 tried it and the orange got kinda bitter after simmering too long. Maybe use only one or add the slices halfway through?
Good catch! I’ve noticed orange slices can go bitter if they simmer too long. I usually add them closer to the end (like the last 5–10 minutes) or just use fewer slices.
Hmm I did 25 min exactly and mine was fine, but I bet it depends on the orange. Next time I’ll try adding them halfway through like you said.
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!
Tried it tonight and it’s surprisingly balanced—sweet-tart without tasting like pure cranberry. Straining was worth it.
I didn’t strain all the way and honestly it was still delicious. But my kitchen smelled like a perfume store for hours.
Same here—didn’t strain fully and it still tasted amazing. The cinnamon/clove vibes are strong in the best way.
Perfume store smell is real 😂 I strained, but I think I simmered too long—mine was kinda bitter. Still good though, just next time I’ll watch the time better.
2 cups of cranberry juice?? is that much really needed? I just used 1 and it was fine. Seems like overkill.
I disagree! The 2 cups really gives it that tart kick. Gotta have that flavor! 🍏🍹
Yeah, I think that’s too much too. I mean, who needs all that juice? Why not just taste it as you go?
Not bad! But I think it needs more spice or something.
Why do you put cloves in everything? Makes it taste weird 😩
Cloves add a unique flavor! Maybe try it without if you don’t like it? 🍏
I tried it but I think I put too much cloves. It was kinda bitter. 🤔
Looks good but I’m confused: cranberry juice is unsweetened and apple cider varies—could be too tart. Still, I’d try it with a splash of honey maybe.
Hot cider? Yum!
Cranberry juice? Isn’t that for drinks? Why not just use apple juice? 🤔
Cranberry juice adds a tart flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the apple cider! You should totally try it. 🍏🍹
I dunno, but apple juice sounds good too. Do people really drink cranberry juice like that? 🤷♂️
I don’t understand why everyone loves this. It was pretty tart and not sweet at all.
Smells good. Haven’t tried yet.
This recipe made me feel warm and fuzzy inside. Great for winter evenings!
This is the best recipe for hot cider I’ve ever tried! So yummy! Perfect for fall gatherings.
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.
I skipped straining because I’m lazy, lol. Worked fine though—kind of rustic. My guests still went back for seconds.
Why not just buy pre-made cider? Seems like a lot of work.
So easy! You basically just dump everything in and let it simmer. The flavor reminds me of holiday markets. 20-25 minutes was perfect.
Not gonna lie, I’m skeptical about “just dump everything.” 😅 But I followed it anyway—added the simmer timer and it was really good. 20 mins maybe more like 25 for me.
I tried this last night—so cozy! I did exactly what the steps said and it turned out sweet-tart and super fragrant with the orange and cinnamon.
My kids said it tasted like “Christmas juice.” I used a cinnamon stick garnish and it looked cute. Easy recipe, would make again.
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’! 😏
Not gonna lie, I thought cranberry juice would make it too sour, but it’s actually pretty balanced with the apple cider. Would make again!
Totally agree! I was nervous about the cranberry too, but the apple cider really smooths it out. 👍
Never would’ve thought cloves could be this good in cider. The cinnamon + cloves combo is perfect and not overpowering if you simmer the right amount of time.
I mean, it’s just cranberry juice and apple cider, right? Can’t be that special. 🤔
This has no alcohol? Then what’s the point! 😒
Cloves can be rough, and I was scared I’d ruin it. Surprisingly it balanced out with the cranberry and apple cider. Great winter drink.
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! 🙄
Eh, I didn’t think it was that great. Too tart for my tastes. 😕
Made this for a cozy weekend and it smells amazing. I didn’t have whole cloves so I used ground cloves and it still tasted great—just a little stronger than expected.
That sounds so cozy! I love when substitutions still work out. Ground cloves can definitely hit harder—good call adjusting expectations.
Super easy! I simmered mine a little longer (about 30 min) and it was amazing. The orange aroma was everything. Next time I’ll serve it with mulling spices too.
I love the orange idea—sounds so cozy! Do you strain out the cinnamon/cloves every time, or just once you’ve simmered longer?
I followed it exactly and it was perfect for a cold night. Guests kept asking what it was—said it tasted like holiday mall cider lol.
The orange slice garnish is such a nice touch. Mine looked fancy even though it took basically no effort.
Totally agree—the orange slice garnish makes it look way more “restaurant” than it really is. I love recipes like this.
Hmm I tried it and mine tasted kinda strong? Like the cloves overpowered everything. I think I’d use fewer next time, but the orange garnish still looks nice.
5 stars! tasted it right away and it’s like restaurant cider. gonna keep this in rotation.
I don’t know guys, it was too tangy for me. Thought it was more sweet. Maybe add sugar next time?
I think the tanginess is what makes it unique! But adding sugar could balance it out for sure.
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 smells amazing while simmering. I added a splash of fresh orange too and it tasted super cozy—like fall in a mug. 5 stars for sure.
This recipe is amazing! The cranberry juice and apple cider combo is perfect for the holidays! 🎉
Made something similar before—straining is a must, otherwise the cloves feel a little intense. Would probably add an extra cinnamon stick next time.
Easy peasy to make. But I forgot the orange slices, oops! Still good flavor.
This is the best hot cider I’ve ever made! The cranberry adds a nice kick. Perfect for cozy nights!
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?
SO GOOD! My whole family loved it. We sipped it while watching movies, and it smelled amazing.
Tried this for my holiday party and everyone loved it! Even my picky aunt.
This is cozy in a mug. The cinnamon/clove combo smells amazing while it simmers—like holiday candles. I used fresh orange and it really brightened the flavor. 10/10 for cold nights.
This smells amazing while simmering—like holiday candles. I left it a few extra minutes and it turned out richer. Super cozy!
I made something similar but my cloves were way too strong. Any tips on how long to simmer so it doesn’t taste like potpourri? Still, the orange slices sound like they’ll fix the harshness.
Yum! My family drank it all in one sitting. It’s a hit. I might use a different juice next time.
Okay but why strain it? I kinda like the cinnamon and stuff floating around. Also I accidentally used sweetened apple cider and it was way too sugary. Next time I’ll watch that.
Don’t feel bad—sweetened cider would definitely make it too sugary. Next time just use unsweetened, and maybe use fewer cinnamon sticks too if you want less sweetness. Also… I usually just don’t strain lol, but I see why the recipe says to.
I strain it because otherwise the cloves + orange bits can get kinda intense/bittery in every sip. But honestly if you like the floating cinnamon, you do you 😄
Honestly, it was just okay. I prefer my cider sweeter. 🙄
My family said it tastes like holiday punch but warm. I used store-bought apple cider and it worked great.
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 followed it exactly and it was good, but I wish it were a bit sweeter. Next time I’ll add a splash of honey.
Glad you liked it! I’ve added a little honey before too—usually 1-2 tbsp does the trick without overpowering the cinnamon.
Hmm “unsweetened” cranberry juice + cider is kinda tart, so your instinct makes sense. I might just use half cranberry juice next time or add brown sugar instead of honey.
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. 🍂🍊
Ok but… I’m not convinced it needed 4 cinnamon sticks. The orange helped, but it was a bit too strong for my taste.
This is exactly the kind of cozy drink I want in the fall. The cinnamon and cloves make the whole kitchen smell amazing—definitely doing this again.
Yes! The cinnamon + cloves combo is undefeated. My kitchen always ends up smelling like a holiday store when I make this.
I followed it pretty closely, but I let it simmer like 30 mins and it got a little too spicy for my taste. Still delicious though.
Not bad, but I expected it to be sweeter. Next time I’ll add a touch of honey or use sweetened cranberry juice.
Hmm I actually like it not too sweet—kinda like a grown-up cider. If you add honey you might overpower the cranberry flavor, but sure, to each their own.
Totally get that! I usually find unsweetened cranberry juice makes it a bit tart. A little honey (or even maple syrup) would probably balance it out nicely—great call.
This cider recipe is amazing! Perfect for the holidays. My whole family loved it. 😊
I added some ginger, and it was amazing! Highly recommend this combo!
So simple and honestly better than store-bought. Strained it, served immediately, and it was gone fast at my party.
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.
Okay I’m not gonna lie, I forgot to strain it at first and it was… interesting. After straining it was way better.
Haha same thing happened to me 😅 I forgot the straining step once and it was kinda gritty. Straining really makes it taste way cleaner and smoother.
Not gonna lie, 1 tablespoon of whole cloves feels like a lot… like, it could turn bitter fast. I’d start with half and taste as it simmers.
Not gonna lie, “whole cloves” is a lot. 1 tablespoon feels intense—like are they crushed? Also, do you really need 4 sticks cinnamon? Might be overpowering for me.
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. 🍏🍹
This cider is perfect for winter! So cozy and delish! 🍂
Delicious!!!
Yesss! The orange + cinnamon combo is so cozy. 🍊✨
I wasn’t sure about 1 tbsp of whole cloves… seems like a lot, but it actually wasn’t overpowering once it simmered. The orange really lifts it. Will make again for sure.
Idk why but mine turned kinda bitter. I think I let the cloves simmer past 30 minutes. Lesson learned: watch the clock.
Ahh yeah, cloves can get really intense if they go too long. 20–25 minutes is plenty—glad you figured it out!
Cloves are kinda like… bitter by nature? Maybe next time use less, like 1 tablespoon instead of 2. Also did you strain it good? Mine never tastes bitter if I strain well.
Super easy and looks fancy. I used a little extra orange because I like it bright. Would absolutely make again for guests.
Hot cider my kids wont drink, why? It’s cider! I don’t get this 😂
Hot cider is for adults anyway! Give ’em hot chocolate instead! 🤷♂️
Maybe they just don’t like the taste of cranberry? Kids can be picky like that! 😂
I tried this for a party, and everyone loved it! Will definitely make again!
Sounds delicious! I’m gonna try this at my next gathering too. Thanks for sharing!
This sounds insanely cozy. I love the cinnamon + cloves combo, and the orange slices sound like the perfect brightness. Definitely trying it this weekend!
Yes!! This is exactly the kind of cozy drink I want on a cold night 😍 The orange really makes it pop—please tell me how it tastes once you try it!
Not gonna lie, I thought cranberry juice + apple cider would be too tart, but it’s actually balanced. Simple recipe, and straining makes it feel fancy.
Tbh I didn’t strain mine, mostly because I forgot 😅 Still tasted good though. Next time I’ll strain—those cloves are… intense. Also I used bottled “spiced” apple cider and it got super fragrant.
I was skeptical too—cranberry juice can be ROUGH—but the apple cider balances it perfectly. The straining tip is clutch; makes it feel like something from a cafe.
Not sure about the cloves amount—mine tasted a little medicinal. Maybe I should’ve used fewer or kept it simmering less.
I had the same issue once. I actually kept the cloves at 1 tbsp but simmered for only ~10 minutes because my pot runs hot. Straining helps too, but the flavor is already in there.
Totally agree—cloves can go from cozy to “medicinal” fast. I’d cut the cloves in half next time (like 1/2–2 tsp) and simmer closer to 15–20 min.
Yummm! I love cranberry cider. This is def going to be my go-to drink now.
This drink is the best! Perfectly spiced and cozy for winter nights. I can’t wait to make it again for my friends!
Isn’t this a bit too sweet? How is it gonna taste without sugar? I like my drinks tart.
I follow steps and it turned out meh. It tasted mostly like cinnamon water. Maybe my cloves were old? Idk, but it needed more orange.
Easy recipe, and the cinnamon/clove combo is perfect. I did strain it and it was smooth—would make again.
Yes! I skipped the straining once and it was a little gritty, so good call. This cinnamon/clove combo really tastes like cozy holiday stuff.
Sounds tasty, but would it still work if I use cinnamon ground instead of sticks? I don’t have whole cloves—could I just add more cinnamon? 😅
Not bad, but 20-25 minutes felt like too long for me—the flavor got a bit sharp. I’d try 10-15 next time.
Super easy and comforting. The orange really lifts it. I simmered mine closer to 30 minutes because I got distracted, but no regrets.
Mine tasted a bit too clovey and hot in a weird way—like overpowering. Next time I’ll reduce cloves or simmer for less time. Still warming though.
This smells AMAZING while it simmers. I didn’t strain it at the end (lazy), and honestly it was still great—kind of rustic. Sweet-tart balance is on point.
Yes!! I totally agree—this fills the whole kitchen. I also skip straining sometimes and it’s still really cozy. Sweet-tart is perfect for me.
Simplicity at its finest! This recipe is easy and quick.
Kinda bland for me. I used “cranberry juice” but it might’ve been sweetened—still, I think it needs a little more something (honey?).
I used store-bought apple cider (not hard cider). It turned out sweet and warm. The cloves made it taste richer than I expected.
Not gonna lie, the clove amount feels a bit intense. Next time I’ll use fewer cloves or remove them earlier.
Made this for a cozy night in and wow—the cinnamon + cloves smell is unreal. Sweet-tart balance is perfect with warm apple cider.
Yes!! I made this last weekend and the aroma was basically holiday magic. The cinnamon + cloves really carries the whole drink.
This is good, but I wish the recipe said whether to sweeten. My cranberry juice was definitely tart, and it needed a little honey for me.
Meh. Too much cinnamon. Could’ve just heated regular cider. Sorry.
Made it exactly as written and it came out a little too tart for my family. Next time I’ll use a sweeter apple cider or add a touch of honey.
I followed the recipe mostly, but I thought it was a bit too spicy. Next time I’ll cut the cloves to 1 tablespoon. Still warm and festive though.