A hot drink that tastes like fireplace and Christmas market – but without icing sugar. The Amaretto, an almond liqueur, gives the apple juice depth, while cinnamon and cloves provide a spicy note. Perfect for cold evenings when you want to hold something warm in your hands that can do more than just warm you. No cooking, no frothing, just gentle warming so the flavours combine without dissipating.
And this is what you need for the Hot Amaretto Apple Juice
250 ml cloudy apple juice (doesn’t have to be cold-pressed, but no concentrate)
30 ml Amaretto (almond liqueur)
1 cinnamon stick (approx. 5 cm, no powder residue)
3 whole cloves (not ground, otherwise it will taste bitter)
1 thin apple slice (optional, for garnish)
This is what matters
The trick lies in the timing: if the Amaretto is added to the hot juice too early, the almond aroma will dissipate. So heat the juice alone first, then stir in the liqueur and let the spices infuse briefly. Those who like can also use the cinnamon stick as a stirrer – but don’t leave it in the glass for too long, otherwise the drink will become too intense. And: cloudy apple juice provides more texture than clear juice, almost like a light mulled wine without an alcohol bomb.
Variations
- Hot Amaretto Apple with Ginger — Warm 1 thin slice of fresh ginger (approx. 1 cm) with the apple juice, remove before serving. Adds a sharp, fresh note that balances the sweet liqueur.
- Alcohol-free variation — Replace the Amaretto with 10 ml almond syrup. Tastes milder but still like marzipan – ideal for children or designated drivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the drink in the microwave?
Yes, but carefully: Heat 250 ml apple juice in a microwave-safe container for 1 minute at 600 watts, then stir in the Amaretto and spices. Don’t heat for too long, otherwise the juice will boil over.
Why does my drink taste soapy?
Either the cloves were ground or the cinnamon stick was left in the glass for too long. Leave whole spices to infuse briefly and remove before serving. If the Amaretto tastes cheap, it’s down to the liqueur – not all almond liqueurs are the same.
Can I prepare the drink in advance?
Yes, but without the spices: Mix apple juice and Amaretto, store in the fridge and only heat before serving. Add the cinnamon stick and cloves just before drinking, otherwise the flavour will become too dominant.
