- Too spicy?
- Add a bit more cream or honey. Dairy fat and sugar both help neutralize the burn.
- Alcohol-free?
- Use 100% apple juice. You can use less honey in that case.
Spicy Ginger-Chili Apple Cider
A lighter, apple-based twist on mulled wine with a kick. Ginger and chili contain capsaicin, which stimulates heat receptors in the mouth, so this drink warms you up chemically as well as physically. The fat in the whipped cream creates a protective coating on the tongue, softening the heat for an exciting but pleasant experience.
Ingredients
2
cups
Apple Cider (Dry or Semi-dry)
1
inch piece
Fresh Ginger (peeled)
1
pinch
Red Pepper Flakes (to taste)
2
tbsp
Honey
1
whole
Cinnamon Stick
1
tsp
Orange Zest (organic)
1
tsp
Vanilla Extract
1/2
cup
Heavy Cream (cold)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Medium Saucepan
- Fine grater (microplane)
- Strainer
- Heatproof Glass
Allergen Information
Milk
Instructions
1
✓
Pour cider into saucepan, heat over medium. Grate ginger and orange zest directly in, add cinnamon and chili.
Tip: Simmer gently; vigorous boiling evaporates alcohol and aromas.
2
✓
Keep warm (approx 160-175°F) for 8-10 minutes. Taste: you should feel the fresh ginger and a slight throat hit from the chili.
Tip: Heat intensifies chili spice, so dose carefully.
3
✓
Remove from heat, stir in honey and vanilla until dissolved.
Tip: Vanilla rounds out the flavors and bridges the gap between spice and fruit.
4
✓
While cider rests, whip the cream to soft peaks.
Tip: Soft peaks mix better with the drink as you sip.
5
✓
Strain hot cider into glasses, top with cream. Garnish with a tiny pinch of chili.
Tip: The contrast of cold cream and hot cider makes the experience.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 2 cups Apple Cider (Dry or Semi-dry)
- 1 inch piece Fresh Ginger (peeled)
- 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes (to taste)
- 2 tbsp Honey
- 1 whole Cinnamon Stick
- 1 tsp Orange Zest (organic)
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (cold)