Description
This Pumpkin Apple Cider recipe is a cozy, spiced drink perfect for fall and winter gatherings. Combining the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm autumn spices with apple cider, it’s topped with a cinnamon-sugar whipped cream and garnished with apple slices and cinnamon sticks. You can also add a splash of bourbon, brandy, or apple liqueur for a festive twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Whipping Cream / Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
Cider:
- 3 cups apple cider
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- pinch ground clove
Additional Garnish:
- apple slices
- cinnamon sticks
Optional:
- bourbon, brandy, or apple liqueur (to taste)
Instructions
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a small dish, combine 1 tablespoon granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, stirring well to blend. This mixture will be used to flavor the whipped cream and for sprinkling on top.
- Whip the Cream: Using an electric mixer, beat 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream with 1 1/2 tablespoons of the cinnamon sugar mixture until soft peaks form. Set aside the whipped cream for topping the cider.
- Heat the Cider: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 3 cups apple cider, 1/2 cup canned pumpkin, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and a pinch of ground clove. Place the saucepan over medium heat and warm the mixture until it is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally for even heating.
- Serve: Ladle the hot pumpkin apple cider into heatproof mugs. If desired, add a splash of bourbon, brandy, or apple liqueur to each mug to make a warm cocktail.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Top each mug with the cinnamon-spiced whipped cream, then sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture. Garnish with fresh apple slices and a cinnamon stick before serving.
Notes
- Use canned pumpkin puree for the best consistency and flavor.
- Adjust the spices to your preference; more cinnamon or nutmeg can create a stronger warm spice flavor.
- The alcohol addition is optional; omit for a family-friendly drink.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the whipped cream topping at its best.
- For a non-dairy version, substitute heavy whipping cream with coconut cream and use appropriate sugar substitutes if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 8 oz)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
