Spiced Apple Cider: The Ultimate Fall-Themed Drink Recipe

This easy homemade spiced apple cider recipe is the perfect non-alcoholic fall drink for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and cozy nights. Made with real apples and warm spices for rich autumn flavor.

Nothing hits the spot quite like a warm mug of spiced apple cider when the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall. This cozy, fragrant drink blends the sweet-tart flavor of fresh apples with a comforting mix of autumn spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg — making it the ultimate fall-themed drink recipe.

From Halloween gatherings to Thanksgiving dinners or just quiet evenings by the fire, this homemade spiced apple cider fits right into the rhythm of the season. It’s a non-alcoholic drink that everyone can enjoy (and in our home, that’s important, since our family doesn’t do alcohol), and it’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. You can serve it steaming hot for a soul-warming treat or chilled for a crisp, refreshing twist.

This recipe yields about 10 servings (half a gallon), which makes it perfect for fall parties, weekend get-togethers, or even just storing in the fridge to enjoy throughout the week. It strikes a perfect balance of tangy and sweet, and stands out among apple cider recipes for its bold flavor and versatility.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to make spiced apple cider from scratch, with helpful tips to get the flavor just right and fun variations to suit your taste. As your kitchen fills with the rich, nostalgic aroma of apples and spices, you’ll see why this easy spiced apple cider recipe is a must-make for the season.

The Best Homemade Spiced Apple Cider Recipe

To craft the best spiced apple cider recipe, use well-balanced ingredients that come together for a rich, comforting flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for 10 servings (1/2 gallon):

Ingredients for the Spiced Apple Cider:

• 10 to 11 cups of water – Adjust based on how concentrated or light you’d like the final cider to be. I personally prefer a lighter version.
• 4 lbs of apples – Use a mix of varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Gala for a lovely sweet-tart balance.
• 1 orange – It adds a subtle citrusy depth to the cider.
• 3 cinnamon sticks – Or substitute with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon.
• A pinch of nutmeg – Or grate a whole nutmeg for a fresher, more aromatic flavor.
• 2 teaspoons whole cloves – Or use ½ teaspoon of ground cloves if that’s what you have on hand.
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar – Or more to taste. You can also use maple syrup for a refined sugar-free option.

For Garnish (optional):

• Cinnamon sticks (one per mug)
• Apple slices (fresh, for presentation)
• Orange slices (for a citrusy touch)

Equipment: 

• A large stockpot or Dutch oven
• A fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Clear glass mugs

Step-by-Step: How to Make Spiced Apple Cider

Follow these simple steps to make a batch of warm, cozy homemade spiced apple cider. This recipe is beginner-friendly and delivers a flavorful, aromatic drink that tastes like autumn in a mug.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by washing your apples thoroughly and cutting them into quarters — no need to peel or core them, as the skins and cores add extra flavor. Use a mix of apple varieties like Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for natural sweetness. Peel and quarter your orange, discarding the peel to avoid bitterness — my neighbor, Anna, swears by keeping it on, but I find the flavor a bit overpowering. Then, gather your spices — cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, nutmeg — and measure out your brown sugar, so everything is ready to go.

Step 2: Combine Everything in a Pot

Place the apple and orange quarters into a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Add 3 cinnamon sticks (or 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon), 2 teaspoons whole cloves (or ½ teaspoon ground cloves), a pinch of nutmeg (or grate 1 whole nutmeg), and ½ cup light brown sugar. Pour in 10 to 11 cups of water — just enough to cover the fruit. Use 10 cups for a more concentrated cider or 11 cups if you prefer it lighter.

Step 3: Simmer Gently

Set the pot over medium-high heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 2 hours. After 1 hour, use a potato masher to gently crush the apples, helping them release more juice and flavor. Stir now and then to keep everything blending beautifully. Add more sugar and hot water to taste.

Step 4: Strain and Taste

Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Place a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a large bowl or another clean pot, and carefully pour the cider through it. Press down on the solids with a spoon to squeeze out every drop of goodness. Taste your cider and adjust the sweetness if needed. Add up to ¼ cup more brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup. For a touch of brightness, stir in a splash of fresh lemon juice.

Step 5: Serve It Your Way

To enjoy it warm, return the strained cider to the pot and heat gently over low. Ladle into mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick, an apple slice, or even a twist of orange peel. Prefer it cold? Let the cider cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Serve over ice, or add a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy twist.

Tips for Making the Best Spiced Apple Cider

If you want your homemade spiced apple cider to truly shine this fall, these tried-and-true tips will help bring out the best flavors in every sip:

1. Use a Variety of Apples: For a well-balanced cider, choose a mix of apple varieties like tart Granny Smith, sweet Honeycrisp, and mellow Gala. Steer clear of overripe apples—they can make the cider overly sweet or a bit flat in flavor.
2. Keep the Heat Low: Let your cider simmer gently rather than boil. Boiling for too long can mute the fresh, bright apple flavor and make the spices taste harsh. A low simmer helps everything blend together smoothly.
3. Go Easy on the Spices: Whole spices like cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg give a cleaner, more layered flavor. If you’re using ground spices, be extra careful with your measurements—just a little goes a long way.
4. Store It Right: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Reheat gently on the stove to keep the flavor fresh. You can also freeze extra cider in portions for cozy moments later in the season.
5. Add a Festive Touch: Don’t underestimate the power of a pretty garnish. A cinnamon stick, fresh apple slice, or a twist of orange peel makes your cider look as good as it tastes—and perfect for fall photos. That said, I have to admit—as I’m writing this, I’m smiling at the thought of my husband, who doesn’t wait for any garnish. The second I pour it, he’s already gulping it down, no frills needed.

Variations for Spiced Apple Cider

Spiced apple cider is wonderfully versatile, and with just a few tweaks, you can tailor it to suit any mood or moment. Whether you’re after a bubbly refreshment, a sugar-free option, or a deeper, more aromatic blend, there’s a cider for everyone.

Sparkling Spiced Apple Cider

Add some sparkle to your fall with this fizzy twist! Simply mix chilled spiced apple cider with an equal amount of sparkling water or club soda. Serve it over ice and garnish with a fresh orange slice for a refreshing, non-alcoholic sparkling cider—perfect for those crisp but sunny autumn afternoons. I personally love the sparkly twist and, honestly, end up drinking way more than the average human—there’s just something irresistible about that sweet and fizzy combo!

Sugar-Free Spiced Apple Cider

Looking to skip the sugar? Swap out brown sugar for natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, adjusting to your preferred sweetness. For a richer, more autumnal flavor without refined sugar, try adding a touch of maple syrup—it adds that cozy depth we all love this season.

Mulled Spiced Apple Cider

For a warmer, more complex take, add a star anise pod or a pinch (about 1/4 teaspoon) of ground cardamom while your cider simmers. This variation gives you a mulled spiced apple cider that’s ideal for holiday parties or cozy nights by the fire.

Serving and Pairing Ideas for Spiced Apple Cider

This spiced apple cider truly shines at every fall gathering, from cozy family evenings to lively holiday celebrations. For a charming presentation, serve your cider in clear glass mugs arranged on a rustic wooden tray, garnished with cinnamon sticks and crisp apple slices. Add some seasonal touches like colorful fall leaves or tiny pumpkins to complete that perfect autumn vibe.

When it comes to pairings, this cider pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice cupcakes or cinnamon sugar cookies—great choices to include in your fall menu lineup. For a savory balance, a charcuterie board featuring aged cheddar, mixed nuts, and dried fruits complements the cider’s warm sweetness perfectly.

This versatile drink fits right in at Halloween parties (try spooky-themed mugs for extra fun), Thanksgiving appetizers, or cozy autumn bonfires with friends and family. Wherever you serve it, spiced apple cider is sure to bring warmth and festive cheer to your fall occasions.

I Hope This Spiced Apple Cider Fills Your Season with Comfort

I hope you’ll love this spiced apple cider as much as I do—it’s easy to make, full of cozy fall flavors, and perfect for all those special autumn moments. Whether you’re sharing it at family gatherings, sipping it by the bonfire, or trying a sparkling version on a crisp afternoon, this recipe is sure to become your new seasonal favorite.

With simple sugar-free and mulled variations, there’s something here for every taste and occasion. Just add a cinnamon stick or a fresh apple slice to make it extra charming.

So go ahead—gather your apples, let those spices simmer, and fill your home with the warm, comforting magic of fall. I truly hope this cider brings joy and cozy comfort to your season!