Looking for a new way to enjoy apple cider? You just found a bunch of them! We've got fun add-ons and mix-ins for fall's most iconic drink.
11 Things You Haven’t Thought to Add to Your Apple Cider
Caramel
Caramel and apple is an iconic combination. Next time you heat up your favorite apple cider recipe to enjoy next to the fire, stir in some caramel sauce, a sprinkle of cinnamon and top with whipped cream. Trust us, this one is too tasty to pass up.
Love caramel and apples? Try these recipes.
Crushed ice
Summer and fall tend to overlap. You’re craving those fall flavors but it still might be pretty warm outside! So why not combine some ice, some apple cider and a dash of cinnamon together in your blender? It makes for the perfect slushie and the perfect blend of fall and summer.
Maple syrup
This one might sound a little strange, but maple and apple go so well together. Have this combo cold—just add a teaspoon or so of syrup to your cider and top with sparkling water. If you prefer your cider warm, just stir in a bit of syrup as you heat your cider.
Ginger beer
Want to give your apple cider an extra kick? A splash of spicy ginger beer is just the thing. This ginger drink gives cider a bit of spice and some fizz. This combo is great on its own as a mocktail. If you want to make an Apple Cider Mule (a take on a Moscow Mule), add a splash of vodka to the mix.
Wine
Turn your apple cider into a fall sangria with just a few ingredients. Mix your favorite bottle of white wine (even a sparkling option will do) with two to three cups of cider, a splash of brandy and a cinnamon stick. Stir together in a pitcher and garnish with orange and apple slices.
Cranberry juice
You might already know that cranberry juice has some excellent detoxifying ingredients. On its own, apple cider packs a good dose of iron and potassium.
Turmeric and ginger
Whether your tummy needs a little comfort or you just want to enjoy some of the health benefits of these spices, you can’t go wrong adding sprinkles of turmeric and ginger to your apple cider. A few dashes will do it when it comes to these spices is plenty. Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon, too, and even heat it up for a cozier option.
Sparkling water
Looking to give your apple cider a bit of effervescence? Mixing apple cider and sparkling water together—we like half and half, but the ratio is up to you—is a great way to add a bit of fizz to this treat. Be sure to serve it over ice!
Leafy greens
Superfood smoothies are nothing particularly new. These drinks offer you a burst of vitamins as well as being a seriously tasty treat. Blend up spinach and kale along with your favorite fruit. Instead of including smoothie basics like orange juice, sub in apple cider!
Mulling spices
This one’s a classic! Combine classic warming spices like clove, allspice and cinnamon in your cider for an especially autumnal treat.
Your favorite spirits
In search of a fall cocktail? Combine your spirit of choice—though bourbon and rum work exceptionally well—with your cider (hot or cold!). Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an apple slice to really make it feel like autumn.