As the snow begins to fall and temperatures start to drop, this Sugar Free Spiced Apple Cider is the perfect way to warm up this holiday season! Spiced with star anise, cloves and cinnamon, and brought to life with bursts of citrus, the flavors and natural sweetness of this cider are unparalleled.
The magic all happens in the Instant Pot (or pressure cooker), where fresh red and green apples are combined with oranges, lemons, and whole spices. Simmer that away and a quick 15 minutes later, you have the most luscious, velvety, soothing drink ever imaginable. The citrus undertones lift up the spiced, deeper feeling to the cider, making for a drink that tastes very complex and nuanced.
The cider is also completely sugar-free, relying solely on the natural sugar from the dates to sweeten it. It’s super healthy and a more festive replacement for a typical morning tea as well.
Make this quick cider for a party or just to enjoy at home and savor it’s spiced, citrusy wonder!
STEP BY STEP VIDEO:

Spiced with star anise, cloves and cinnamon, and brought to life with bursts of citrus, the flavors and natural sweetness from dates of this sugar free apple cider are unparalleled. It’s the perfect drink to add a festive touch to a holiday party or daily routine.
- 2 red apples , diced and deseeded
- 2 green apples , diced and deseeded
- 1 orange , sliced with peel
- 1 inch ginger , chopped
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 star anise
- 4 cloves
- 6 large dates
- pinch himalayan salt
- 3 1/2 cups water
- 1 orange , cut into rounds
- 1 lemon , cut into rounds
- 1/4 cup cranberries , fresh
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Instant Pot - Put the cider ingredients into the instant pot and pressure cook on manual high for 10 minutes.Let it natural release.
or
Pressure Cooker - pressure cook it on high flame for one whistle and medium flame for two more. Release the pressure naturally and strain and serve.
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Remove the whole spices.
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Strain the cider using a strainer and mash the softened fruits with a spoon to get all of that wonderful liquid. Do not use a blender or immersion blender to purée the fruits as we want a thinner result.
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Add the garnishes and serve hot!
Recipe Video
- If making for a party, the cider can just be kept in the fridge and warmed up with the garnishes before serving.
- If you want the cider more sour, add some lemon juice or add honey for more sweetness.
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this looks awesome
Thank you so much!!