A wintery cider that convinces with the combination of sweet-and-sour blueberry juice and warm apple juice. The spices – cinnamon and cloves – release their aroma during gentle warming, without the juice boiling. Fresh blueberries as a garnish give the drink a fruity freshness and make it visually appealing. Perfect for cozy evenings or as a non-alcoholic alternative to classic mulled wine.
And here’s what you need for the Glowing Blueberry Cider – non-alcoholic
240 ml blueberry juice (cloudy, no added sugar)
120 ml cloudy apple juice (preferably direct juice)
1 cinnamon stick (approx. 5 cm)
4 whole cloves
1 pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional, for more depth)
Fresh blueberries for garnishing (about 10–12 pieces)
Here’s what matters
The trick lies in the timing: the spices should infuse only until the aroma becomes intense, but not until it tastes bitter. If you prefer a slightly more tart taste, you can stir in 1 cl of lemon juice just before serving – this enhances the fruit notes. It’s also important to choose quality juices: cloudy apple juice and blueberry juice without added sugar ensure a balanced sweetness and prevent the drink from becoming too sticky.
Variations
- Glowing Blueberry Cider with ginger — let 1 thin slice of fresh ginger (approx. 2 cm) infuse with the other spices. Gives the drink a sharp, invigorating note.
- Glowing Blueberry Cider with vanilla — warm 1/4 of a vanilla pod with the spices in the juice. The vanilla rounds off the acidity and gives the drink a creamy sweetness.
- Glowing Blueberry Cider with orange slice — let 1 thin slice of organic orange infuse with the spices. The essential oils of the peel enhance the aroma.
Frequently asked questions
Can I serve the cider cold?
Yes, but the spices release their aroma better when warm. For a cold version, let the spices infuse in the fridge overnight and strain through a sieve before serving.
How long does the prepared cider keep?
In the refrigerator, it keeps for 2–3 days if stored in a clean, sealed jar. Warm it briefly before serving.
Can I refine the cider with alcohol?
Yes, 4 cl of white Rum or Bourbon Whiskey work well. Stir in the alcohol just before serving so it doesn’t cook off.
