The holidays are filled with delicious, but often calorie-laden drinks and other goodies. Hot apple cider is one of them, but it’s easy to make a healthier version. Instead of adding sugar, pack the pot with seasonal spices that also bring extra wellness benefits. This recipe below boasts anti-inflammatory benefits and the power to lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and more.
Homemade Sugar-Free Hot Apple Cider
Ingredients
- 10 cups of freshly made apple juice
- 10 whole cloves
- 8 cinnamon sticks
- 8 whole cardamom pods
- 4 Chinese star anise
- 2-inch chunk of fresh ginger
- 1 tsp of fresh lemon zest
- 1 orange, sliced thinly
- Dash of sea salt
Steps:
Place all ingredients except for the orange slices into a large pot over low to medium heat. Let warm for 15 minutes, no need to get liquid to boiling. Add in the orange slices and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the pot from the stove and strain the mixture through a colander. Serve warm or store for later.
For more seasonal apple ideas, check out Indulgent Apple Creations.