This Hot Apple Cider riff blends warm orchard spice with the kick of Top Hat Original Ginger Beer Syrup to create a mug-ready cocktail (or zero-proof pour) that’s comforting, seasonal, and incredibly aromatic. Built with hot apple cider or apple juice, winter spiced bitters, and your spirit of choice, this upgraded classic tastes like a holiday market in a glass—steaming, spiced, and perfect for slow evenings or fireside gatherings.
Hot Apple Cider
A warm, spiced seasonal classic built with Top Hat Original Ginger Beer Syrup.
Built with fresh hot cider, warming spices, and the ginger spice of Top Hat Original Ginger Beer Syrup, this Hot Apple Cider is deeply aromatic and endlessly comforting. Perfect for cold nights, gatherings, or anytime you want a warm cocktail that still has structure and punch.
Method
- Heat 6–8 oz Hot Apple Cider or Apple Juice until steaming but not boiling.
- (Optional) Add 1.5 oz Spirit of Choice or Zero Proof Rum/Whiskey Alternative to a mug.
- Add 1 oz Top Hat Original Ginger Beer Syrup.
- Add 0.5 oz Honey Simple Syrup.
- Add 3 dashes Winter Spiced Bitters*.
- Top with the hot cider and give a gentle stir.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick, star anise pod, and sliced apple.
Pro move: For richer aromatics, warm your mug with hot water first so the spices bloom immediately.
Winter Spiced Bitters*
Combine: 8oz Angostura Bitters, 10 cinnamon sticks, 10 whole cloves, 20 allspice berries, and 3 star anise pods. Steep 24 hours (3–7 days for deeper spice).