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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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. 👍
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! 😒
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.
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 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 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.