Description
A warm, comforting, and easy-to-make caramel apple cider that tastes like a coffee shop treat. This signature autumn drink combines fresh apple cider with homemade salted caramel sauce and spices for a cozy, festive beverage perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 gallon (3.7 liters) 100% pure fresh apple cider
- 2 medium fresh apples (mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp), sliced thin
- 1 cup (240ml) water
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream, warmed
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 large cinnamon sticks
- 1 pod star anise (optional)
- Optional: Bourbon, dark rum, or brandy for serving
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar and stir constantly until it dissolves and turns into a golden amber liquid (about 5-7 minutes).
- Carefully pour in the warm heavy cream. It will bubble up violently, so be cautious. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Add the salt and vanilla extract to the caramel sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.
- While the caramel cools, slice the apples thin. Prepare the cinnamon sticks and star anise.
- In a large Dutch oven or saucepan, combine the apple cider, water, sliced apples, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Do not boil vigorously. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until the apples are soft and the cider has deepened in color.
- Remove the pot from heat. Remove the cinnamon sticks and star anise if not using an infuser.
- Stir in the homemade caramel sauce, starting with half a cup. Taste and add more if desired.
- If serving alcoholic versions, stir in bourbon or rum (approx. 1.5 ounces per mug).
- Ladle into mugs and garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks. Serve immediately.
Notes
Do not rush the caramel melting process; low and slow prevents burning. Always warm the cream before adding to hot sugar to prevent seizing. Use fresh, unpasteurized apple cider for the best tartness and flavor. The cider tastes better the next day as flavors meld. Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 58
- Sodium: 45
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 65
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Keywords: caramel apple cider, copycat recipe, autumn drinks, fall beverages, hot cider, salted caramel, coffee shop drink, gluten-free drink