Comfort in a mug.

Few things say “December” like the warm, spiced aroma of apple cider simmering on the stove. It’s cozy, nostalgic, and instantly transforms your home into a haven of holiday comfort. Today, for Day 16 of our 25 Days of Simple Christmas countdown, we’re making a homemade apple cider that’s clean, whole-food, and unbelievably easy.

This recipe is simmered low and slow with whole fruit and warm spices—no concentrates, no refined sugar, and no mystery ingredients. Just real apples, real spices, and real warmth.

Whether you sip it during tree decorating, Christmas movie nights, or snow-day mornings, this cider brings comfort in every mug.

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A Loving Family Memory

When I think of apple cider, I think of the winter my kids were finally old enough to help decorate the Christmas tree. We put on our matching pajamas, lit a few candles, and turned on our favorite holiday playlist. I set a pot of apple cider on the stove to simmer while we unpacked ornaments—some homemade, some heirloom, all filled with memories.

As the apples, cinnamon, and cloves filled the house, the kids kept asking, “Is the cider done yet?” They were so excited to hold warm mugs in their little hands. By the time we finished decorating, the cider was ready—golden, fragrant, and delicious.

We sat on the couch under a blanket, sipping slowly as the lights twinkled on the tree. It was one of those simple moments that becomes a core memory—no rushing, no chaos, just warmth, sweetness, and togetherness.

Now, apple cider has become our annual “tree-trimming tradition.” One smell of those simmering spices, and my heart feels at home.

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Why Homemade Apple Cider Belongs in Your Pantry (and on Your Stove)

1. Whole-food ingredients
Made with real apples and real spices—no concentrates, refined sugars, or artificial flavors.

2. A cozy ritual, not a task
Throw everything in a pot, simmer, strain, enjoy. It practically makes itself.

3. Perfect for gatherings
Serve it at parties, after sledding, or on Christmas Eve—it’s universally loved.

4. Customizable
Add orange, ginger, extra cinnamon, or leave it simple—your choice.

5. Family-friendly (and adaptable for grown-ups)
It’s delicious on its own, but also shines with a splash of spiced rum or bourbon.

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Homemade Apple Cider (Whole-Food Version)

Ingredients

• 10–12 medium apples (a mix of sweet and tart works best—Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, Granny Smith)
• 1 large orange, sliced (optional for brightness)
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon whole allspice
• 1–2 inches fresh ginger (optional, for warmth)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
• 10 cups filtered water

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Instructions

1. Fill your pot
Place the apples, orange slices (if using), cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, and ginger into a large stockpot.

2. Cover with water
Pour in the filtered water until the fruit is fully submerged.

3. Simmer
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Cover and simmer for 2 hours, until the apples are very soft.

4. Mash
Use a potato masher to break down the fruit and release all the flavor.

5. Strain
Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean pot or large bowl. Discard the solids.

6. Sweeten
Stir in your maple syrup or honey while the cider is warm. Taste and adjust as needed.

7. Serve warm
Pour into mugs and enjoy immediately—or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

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Ways We Love to Use Homemade Apple Cider

🎄 Holiday mornings
Warm cider pairs perfectly with Day 25’s Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls.

🍎 After sledding or snow play
Nothing warms cold noses and fingers faster.

✨ Simple gatherings
Serve from a slow cooker to keep it warm and fragrant.

🕯 Cozy evenings
Sip during story time, holiday movies, or while watching snowfall.

🎁 A beautiful homemade gift
Pour into jars with a cinnamon stick and a handwritten label.

Whenever this cider begins simmering, my family always says, “It smells like Christmas.” And truly—one sip, and you’ll feel that warmth down to your core.

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Day 16 is complete!
Tomorrow we move into Day 17 — Chai Tea Concentrate, where we blend spices and sweetness into a cozy, instant mug of holiday comfort.