- Can I use canned cherries?
- Yes, blend them with their juice into a purée. In this case, omit the added sugar as the canned fruit is already sweetened.
Spiced Cherry Apple Cider
The marriage of cherry and apple brings together stone fruit depth with orchard freshness. The cherry adds a rich, tannic sweetness that grounds the bright acidity of the cider. Spiced with cinnamon and vanilla, this drink is essentially liquid cherry pie, topped with a cloud of whipped cream.
Ingredients
2
cups
Apple cider
2/3
cup
Cherry purée (from fresh or frozen)
2
tbsp
Brown sugar
1
whole
Cinnamon stick
1
tsp
Vanilla extract
1/2
cup
Heavy cream
2
oz
Whole cherries (pitted, for garnish)
1
pinch
Salt
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Strainer
- Whisk (hand or electric)
- Heat-proof mugs
Allergen Information
Milk
Instructions
1
✓
Pour the cider into a saucepan and begin to warm. Whisk in the cherry purée, brown sugar, cinnamon stick, and a pinch of salt.
Tip: Salt doesn't make it salty; it opens up the taste buds to perceive sweetness better.
2
✓
Mix thoroughly and heat until it gently simmers (do not boil vigorously). Let it steep for 5-8 minutes.
Tip: The purée adds body, giving the drink a richer mouthfeel.
3
✓
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it rest for a minute.
Tip: Always add alcohol-based extracts at the end to prevent evaporation.
4
✓
Meanwhile, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Tip: Soft peaks mix better with the drink while sipping; stiff peaks act like a plug.
5
✓
Strain the drink (if you prefer it smooth without cinnamon bits or pulp) and pour into mugs. Top with whipped cream and fresh cherries.
Tip: Serve hot with a spoon for the cream.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 2 cups Apple cider
- 2/3 cup Cherry purée (from fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp Brown sugar
- 1 whole Cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream
- 2 oz Whole cherries (pitted, for garnish)
- 1 pinch Salt