by guest blogger Maya Rodale, writer of historical tales of true love and adventure
My mother has shared her classic recipe for hot apple cider, which I heartily recommend and usually make. However, sometimes I’m feeling fancy and like to get creative with this variation that was initially invented by Ma, but that I have perfected—if I do say so myself. I call it sassy because this one has a kick to it, thanks to the cayenne pepper and fresh ginger.
Sassy Hot Apple Cider
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cider (I measure using the mug I’ll be drinking out of)
- 1 1-inch piece fresh ginger
- 1 orange slice
- Pinch of cinnamon
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
Directions:
1. Heat up the cider on the stove on a medium temperature.
2. Squeeze in the orange. Add the pinch of cinnamon.
3. Meanwhile, cut the skin off the ginger and cut your piece. Now, smash this bit to unlock its juices and flavor. (I put it in the mug and crush it with the pestle bit of my mortar and pestle. I imagine the flat side of a knife might work as well, or a garlic press.)
4. By now that cider should be HOT (but not boiling!). Pour it over the ginger in the mug.
5. Add the pinch of cayenne. Don’t burn your tongue!
What’s your recipe for hot apple cider? Any fun variations?
Maya Rodale is the author of numerous historical romance novels. She lives in New York City with a rogue of her own and their dog, Penelope. Find her on Facebook [facebook.com/mayarodalewriter] or at www.mayarodale.com, or follow her on Twitter [twitter.com/mayarodale].
This sounds amazing! I cannot wait to try it. I NEVER would have thought of the idea of adding cayenne pepper to sweet drinks. But the first time I saw it on a latte menu, I knew instantly that it would be delicious.
Thank you for sharing this!
I don’t suppose I could make a few cups up at once in a small crock pot? I think hubby would really love the smell of cider warming when he came in out of the cold. We have some fresh pressed cider available in our stores right now too…. YUM!
Hey Mandy! A little cayanne pepper goes a loooong way 🙂 But that lil’ bit adds a yummy kick.
SJ! There’s nothing like the scent of hot cider…You could even heat up a lot and add the fixin’s to each mug (a consideration for those who can’t handle the spicy stuff).