Backwoods Bourbon Apple Cider Recipe

 

Serves: 4
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4 cups apple cider (fresh if available)
• 1/2 cup bourbon
• 2 cinnamon sticks, plus more for garnish
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
• 1 apple, sliced thinly for garnish
• Optional: Orange slices for garnish
• Optional: Honey or brown sugar to sweeten further, if desired

Equipment:

• Medium saucepan
• Ladle
• Strainer (optional, for cloves)
• Mugs for serving

Instructions:

1. Warm the Cider: In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg. Warm over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally to infuse the spices, about 5-10 minutes.
2. Add Bourbon: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the bourbon, blending it well with the spiced cider.
3. Prepare the Mugs: If you prefer your cider without the whole spices, strain the mixture to remove the cloves (and cinnamon sticks, if desired). Pour the hot cider mixture into mugs.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish each mug with a cinnamon stick, a few apple slices, and if you like, an orange slice for an extra layer of flavor and aroma.
5. Enjoy: Sip your Backwoods Bourbon Apple Cider by the campfire, letting the warm spices and smooth bourbon soothe you after a day of outdoor adventures.

Tips for Success:

• Adjust the amount of bourbon based on your preference for strength, adding more for a stronger drink or less for a milder one.
• The apple cider can be sweetened further with honey or brown sugar, added along with the spices, to suit your taste.
• For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the bourbon. The spiced apple cider is a delicious treat on its own.

This Backwoods Bourbon Apple Cider is the perfect way to warm up during chilly evenings outdoors, offering a comforting blend of seasonal spices, rich bourbon, and sweet apple cider. It’s an ideal companion for storytelling and stargazing, bringing a touch of homely comfort to your camping experience.