In the world of beverages, this hot vanilla cider is as versatile as a little black dress. Serve it at a child’s holiday party or a wintry baby shower and you have yourself a guaranteed hit. Fill up a thermos and instantly enhance your Christmas tree purchasing experience. Add whipped cream on top and you’ll make an incredible liquid dessert. Spike your vanilla cider with bourbon and suddenly your little black dress turns frisky!
The problem with the frisky/boozy side of this drink is that it goes down too easy. I’m just gonna put that out there for your interpretation. I stopped at 1.5 drinks because I totally know my limits; I’m like a grownup or something.
And we’re off!
Unfiltered apple juice, bourbon whiskey, brown sugar, nutmeg & a vanilla pod.
Scrape the vanilla.
Now place everything, including that vanilla bean into a saucepan. Simmer down now!
Your hot beverage gets strained. Smell the vapors. Delicious!
Nutmeg and vanilla (only a little) gets collected through the mesh.
And here’s where I take the frisky route….
These mugs have no idea what’s in store for them…
Hot Vanilla Cider! Such a glorious sight. Pretty apple gradient in a cup.
There’s little bits of vanilla floating around in those mugs. Delightful, right?
If you’re a fan of nutmeg, grate a little extra on top.
I think this might be my OFFICIAL drink of the holiday season. Make it yours!
Hot Vanilla Cider
makes 6
(adapted slightly from Martha Stewart Living)
- 6 cups unfiltered apple juice (or cider)
- 2 tablespoons packed dark-brown sugar
- 2 whole nutmeg seeds
- 1 vanilla bean (split and scraped)
- 6 ounces (3/4 cup) bourbon, if desired
Combine apple cider, dark-brown sugar, nutmeg seeds, and vanilla bean in a medium saucepan. Gently simmer over medium-low heat for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, and add bourbon if desired. Remove and discard solids. Divide among 6 mugs or heatproof glasses.
