Spiked Apple Cider

Thanksgiving Tastes & Traditions

During the holidays, a welcoming drink can set the tone for the entire gathering — especially when it’s as cozy and effortless as Spiked Apple Cider. Morgan Golumbuk shared her go-to tip for hosting with ease: batch cocktails that let guests help themselves while you enjoy the moment. Served warm from a slow cooker or chilled over ice, this cider brings the scent of cinnamon, apples, and celebration to every pour — a simple tradition that captures the spirit of togetherness and holiday cheer.

Part of our Tastes and Traditions collection, this recipe celebrates the spirit of the holidays — where life happens around food, and simple gestures become lasting memories.

Batch a big jug of something (spiked apple cider, bourbon lemonade, etc.) so that people can serve themselves with ease. Make sure to have a non-alcoholic version available!

Spiked Apple Cider

by Morgan Golumbuk

Ingredients

For the cider

1 gallon apple cider
2 cups dark rum

For the garnish

Cinnamon sticks
Ground cinnamon
1 apple, sliced, tossed in lemon juice
2 apples, cubed, tossed in lemon juice

Procedure

Warm Spiked Apple Cider

Heat apple cider with 2 cinnamon sticks on medium low heat just until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and add rum. Keep warm in a slow cooker set on low. To serve, ladle into heat-safe mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Cold Spiked Apple Cider

Combine apple cider, rum, and sliced apples in a pitcher and chill until ready to serve. Thread 2-3 pieces of cubed apple on cocktail skewers. To serve, pour over ice, add skewer of cubed apple and sprinkle with ground cinnamon.